Should marriage be considered honorable by everyone?

Definition and Scope of Marriage

Marriage, as depicted throughout Scripture, can be understood as a lifelong covenant between one man and one woman, entered into before God. From the earliest descriptions of humanity’s origins, marriage holds a special place in creation and social structure. This covenantal relationship (Genesis 2:24) features a unique union wherein two individuals become “one flesh.” Its significance is reinforced across the Biblical narrative, which depicts marriage as foundational to communities, families, and the broader covenant people of God.

Biblical Foundations of Marriage

Marriage surfaces prominently from the beginning of the Old Testament. In Genesis 2:24 we read, “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.” This passage establishes marriage as instituted by God from humanity’s earliest days.

Further Old Testament references, such as Proverbs 18:22—“He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD”—underscore the blessing associated with marriage. Malachi 2:14–16 portrays God condemning unfaithfulness in marriage while highlighting the sacredness of the marital bond.

Turning to the New Testament, Jesus reaffirms the same eternal principle in Matthew 19:4–6. He teaches, “Have you not read that from the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’?” The continuity between Old and New Testaments underscores the unchanging ideal that marriage is established by God for humankind’s good.

Theological Significance

The theological importance of marriage extends beyond practical or social considerations. Scripturally, marriage serves as a picture of covenant faithfulness—modeled on God’s own faithfulness to His people. In Ephesians 5:25–27, for example, the union of husband and wife is likened to the relationship between Christ and the church. This analogy elevates marriage to a profound spiritual representation of love, sacrifice, unity, and commitment under divine authority.

Moreover, marriage mirrors the gospel’s truth. Just as Christ unconditionally loves and redeems His people, spouses are called to practice sacrificial love toward one another. This spiritual dimension points to marriage as worthy of deep honor.

Cultural and Historical Context

Historically, the biblical account reflects that God’s people in the Old Testament era, as well as the first-century context of the New Testament, viewed marriage as a key cornerstone of society. Archaeological evidence from the Ancient Near East highlights how the familial structure, centered on marital fidelity, provided cohesiveness in worship, community governance, and inheritance matters.

Manuscript evidence, such as sections of the Dead Sea Scrolls preserving Old Testament passages (including Genesis and Deuteronomy), corroborates the consistency of teachings on the importance of marital faithfulness. Early Church documents and subsequent Christian writings further illustrate that believers identified marriage as integral to discipleship, parenting, and the witness of God’s faithfulness in local communities.

Marriage as an Institution to Be Honored

Emphasizing the question “Should marriage be considered honorable by everyone?” the New Testament provides a clear directive. Hebrews 13:4 states, “Marriage should be honored by all and the marriage bed kept undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers.” This universal admonition applies not just to those within the faith community but calls for respect of marriage by all people. It underscores that marriage is not merely a private arrangement: it is a God-ordained union that carries moral weight.

From a social and behavioral point of view, numerous studies indicate stable marriages often yield beneficial outcomes for families, children’s well-being, and societal health. These outcomes align with scriptural instruction suggesting that honoring marriage leads to flourishing relationships and stable communities.

Addressing Common Objections and Concerns

Despite the biblical imperative, some question whether marriage holds the same value in modern contexts. Cultural shifts, availability of alternative relationship models, and changing social norms invite discussions about marriage’s current relevance. Yet, from scriptural teaching to sociological research, a strong case remains that marriage—a lifelong covenant—promotes stability, mutual support, and moral accountability.

1. Is Marriage Outdated?

While cultural attitudes change, the biblical presentation of marriage as a covenant remains steadfast. As seen in Genesis and reaffirmed by Jesus, the original blueprint for marriage transcends time-bound customs, pointing to a design embedded in creation itself.

2. What Does Science Say?

Behavioral scientists have found that committed monogamous relationships tend, on the whole, to cultivate emotional security and societal benefits. Such data reinforce the biblical counsel that closeness and fidelity contribute to personal and corporate well-being.

3. What About Changing Norms?

Shifts in social norms do not negate timeless truth. Scripture consistently defines marriage within God’s created order, upholding both the moral and relational fabric it provides for humanity. The continuity found in preserved manuscripts and early Christian teaching demonstrates a historical commitment to upholding this covenant.

Practical Application and Encouragement

Beyond mere assent to principle, Christians are encouraged to support and honor marriage tangibly. This may involve mentorship in marriage preparation, cultivating healthy communication within marriages, or offering community support to couples facing challenges. The biblical witness calls individuals to uphold marital fidelity, mutual respect, and love as pillars of a godly household.

Conclusion

In answer to the question, “Should marriage be considered honorable by everyone?” the unbroken message of Scripture is unequivocal. From Genesis to Revelation—from the earliest manuscripts to the teachings of Jesus and the early church—marriage stands apart as a sacred covenant instituted by God Himself.

As Hebrews 13:4 affirms, “Marriage should be honored by all.” This directive is grounded not only in biblical theology but corroborated by manifold lines of evidence: manuscripts, historical practice, sociological research, and the internal testimony of conscience. Marriage’s honorable status remains vital to personal holiness, communal harmony, and the faithful reflection of God’s covenant love in the world.