Biblical Answer

The Nature of Christian Marriage

Marriage is a sacred institution that reflects God's character as the great covenant-maker and covenant-keeper. It is a sign and demonstration of God's fidelity and integrity. While marriage can be a wonderful experience, it cannot fill the void in our souls left by God. Without a deeply fulfilling love relationship with Christ, married Christians may put too much pressure on their marriage and become consumed with their own desires and sense of need.

The Importance of Christian Character

A Christian spouse must prioritize becoming more like Christ above all else, including their desire for a happy and fulfilling marriage. This means recognizing that marriage is not just about happiness, but also about spiritual growth and becoming more Christ-like. A Christian spouse should use the marriage bed to learn how to serve another and deny themselves, which will lead to many spiritual benefits. It is also essential to understand that a Christian may accept divorce if initiated by an unbelieving spouse, but God never allows Christians to initiate divorce themselves.

The Challenge of Unrepentant Spouses

If a Christian is in a relationship leading towards marriage with an unbelieving spouse, it is crucial to recognize the potential challenges that may arise. An unrepentant spouse may want increased distance from the believing partner, making it essential to prioritize spiritual growth and becoming more Christ-like. This means being willing to suffer and be seasoned with trials, which can lead to conformity to the image of Christ. Ultimately, a Christian spouse must prioritize their relationship with Christ above all else, including their marriage, to become the person God desires them to be.