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GOD’S PLAN FOR THE MARITAL UNION

God is the architect of marriage (Genesis 2). It is Biblically defined as a life-long union between a man and a woman (Matt 19:4-6).

In Ephesians 5, the apostle Paul reveals by the Holy Spirit that the marital union illustrates the spiritual oneness and intimacy between Christ and His church. Here God teaches that His divine plan for matrimony will produce the harmony and happiness God intended in this lifelong bond. Men may change God’s plan, but God’s plan does not change.

Loving Husbands

Paul teaches that the husband has the responsibility of headship in the marriage, as Christ is head of the church (Eph 5:23). The great challenge of his spiritual leadership is for the husband to love his wife sacrificially, as Christ loves the church and gave Himself up for her (Eph 5:25). Paul teaches that each husband, without exception, should love his wife as being in a sense his very own self; he is to lead her, to nurture her in the things of Christ, and to live with her faithfully for life (Eph 5:28-29). This is the kind of man that a godly woman will want to give herself to unreservedly.

Submissive Wives

Paul teaches the wife must lovingly submit to the leadership of her husband in the home (Eph 5:22). This is still God’s order, despite cultural rebellion against it. This submission involves support, cooperation and encouragement for the husband to fulfill his responsibility. She must also look up to and “respect” him (Eph 5:33). This involves noticing him, regarding his efforts, esteeming his good points, and loving him exceedingly.

We should teach our children to make it their aim to marry someone who is a good Christian, who will help them go to heaven. As two committed Christians grow closer to Christ, they will grow closer to one another as best friends.

Husbands and wives daily wear a physical token of this spiritual union. It is made of gold, symbolizing the preciousness of marriage. As a ring, it is an unending circle, symbolizing unending love. Every time a spouse sees their wedding ring, it should be a silent reminder of the promises made on that joyous wedding day. It is a daily symbol to prompt faithfulness to each other always.

Terry Gunnells wrote about the growing power of a love in marriage: “When beauty fades from the cheek, luster from the eyes, when steps become short and wrinkles may crease the face, when silver threads adorn the head, true love will still sparkle and happiness will increase until that perfect day when the great marriage feast of the Lamb will be enjoyed for all eternity.”

By W. Frank Walton