The Bible reveals God’s original design for relationships, beginning in Genesis. As the Creator, God is the author of marriage, having designed and established it from the very beginning. Because marriage is His creation, He defines its purpose and function, making His design the ultimate standard. In Genesis 2:18, God declares that it is not good for man to be alone, so He creates woman as a suitable partner, laying the foundation for marriage. This is further affirmed in Genesis 2:24: “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”
Since marriage originates from God, it is not merely a human or cultural institution subject to societal redefinition. Instead, it is a sacred covenant designed to reflect His love, unity, and purpose. As the Creator of marriage, God provides the principles by which it should function—built on love, faithfulness, and mutual commitment. Husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loves the Church (Ephesians 5:25), and wives are encouraged to respect and support their husbands (Ephesians 5:22-24). When marriage operates according to God’s design, it brings fulfillment and serves as a reflection of His relationship with His people. However, when marriage is approached apart from God’s wisdom, broken relationships, pain, and instability often result. Only by submitting to His guidance can marriage truly thrive.
In our society views on relationships constantly evolve, the Bible remains the ultimate authority on marriage and singleness. While culture may attempt to redefine relationships, believers are called to align their lives with God’s Word rather than societal trends (Romans 12:2). Love, grace, and truth must guide interactions with those who hold differing views, always pointing people back to God’s design for relationships.
While God’s ideal is a lifelong marriage, Scripture acknowledges that divorce may be permissible under certain circumstances, particularly in cases of adultery (Matthew 5:32; 19:9) or abandonment by an unbelieving spouse (1 Corinthians 7:15). Divorce is never God’s desire, but in a fallen world, it can sometimes be a necessary outcome due to human failure and sin. Thankfully, His grace is sufficient for those who have experienced divorce, offering healing and restoration to those who seek Him.
Singleness is not a lesser state but a valuable and honorable way to serve God. The Apostle Paul spoke of singleness as a gift that allows for undivided devotion to the Lord (1 Corinthians 7:32-35). Our ministry encourages single believers to embrace their season of singleness as an opportunity for spiritual growth and to fulfill God’s purposes in their lives.
For additional information see: The Marriage Covenant.