Biblical Answer

The Nature of Marriage in Heaven

The Bible teaches that there will be no marriage in heaven. In Matthew 22:30, Jesus says, "At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven." This indicates that marriage as we know it will cease to exist in heaven. The reason for this is that the real marriage, the one between Christ and his church, will have been consummated, and we will be united with Christ in a way that transcends human marriage.

The Purpose of Marriage on Earth

While there will be no marriage in heaven, marriage on earth serves a purpose. It is a shadow of the greater reality of Christ's marriage to his church. Marriage is a picture of the fittedness of heaven and earth, or as Ephesians 5 puts it, of Christ and the church. It is a means of exercising our character and preparing us for heaven. The refinement of our character through marriage is not something that will be noticed by the world, but it will be noticed by God.

The Relationship with Christ in Heaven

In heaven, our relationship with Christ will be a real marriage, one that is so real that the bride is already getting ready. This relationship will be the ultimate source of joy and satisfaction for us, not our marital relationship. Marriage on earth is temporary, and we should not live as if our ultimate joy and satisfaction are derived from it. Instead, we should focus on developing a deep relationship with Christ, which will be the foundation of our joy and satisfaction in heaven. As Paul says, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her" (Ephesians 5:25). Our relationship with Christ will be the ultimate marriage, one that will bring us joy and satisfaction forever.