Explain the Teaching of Christianity About the Nature and Purpose of Marriage

Christians are followers of the Bible, which they believe to be the word of G-d. The Bible dictates that man and woman are not whole without one another, shown by Adam and Eve who were made from one flesh, not complete without the other. As shown in the New Testament, Jesus talks about how marriage is "no longer two, but one flesh."(Mark 10:6-9) This is to ensure that the special union G-d has joined together cannot be separated.

Christians believe marriage is the union of two people in a faithful relationship of love and companionship for life, and they believe that G-d brings about this union. G-d declared that "It is not good that the man should be alone," (Genesis 2:18-34) and hence created a woman to create a unity. This shows marriage is a fundamental part of being human, G-ds purpose for mankind, and a gift from G-d.

Ð''God created man in the image of himself, in the image of God he created him, male and female he created them.' (Genesis 1) This shows the first roots of the idea of marriage. It expresses the goodness of marriage, and the need for the fundamental equality of both man and woman.

Another Christian belief of the purpose of marriage is to have children. This was viewed as a higher purpose in the past, as many Christians were wary of ways of birth control. However contraceptives are used more now. In the past this used to be the main reason for marriage, however the Roman Catholic Church still abides by this reason, whereas many protestants are willing to use contraceptives. Continuity of a family usually relies on marriage, and nowadays a more popular reasoning for marriage is companionship, which all Christians believe in. This is shown in a Methodist marriage service which states "the union of man and woman for companionship and mutual support, in equal partnership and the creation and bringing up of children."

The Church of England agrees that marriage should be a lifelong commitment, and rarely allow remarriage. Baptists believe strongly in the omni benevolent G-d being present, and marriage being a matter of public interest. They believe the love shown between a man and a woman represents the love between the Church and Christ. This is why, only couples known to make public vows are actually announced married. This shows the seriousness of marriage.

Different denominations in Christianity have different views on marriage, although most see marriage as a sacrament. This is demonstrating the spiritual union given during the marriage service. Some Christians believe that G-d created marriage as a deep way of sharing between a couple, and that their relationship is blessed by him.

The marriage service ensures the couple feels committed to each other. This is due to a public declaration, in front of all their family, friends, the Church and G-d, who are all in full support of the unison. This is to show that marriage is not just a private matter. The vows made by the partners are important to ensure they are prepared to commit themselves to one another for life.

A wedding ceremony