Marriage is a sacred union between two individuals, and it is a journey filled with love, faith, and commitment. As couples embark on this journey, they often seek guidance and advice on how to build a strong and lasting marriage.
One source of wisdom and inspiration for many couples is the Bible. It is filled with verses that offer guidance, encouragement, and hope for marriages. Today, we will explore some of the most meaningful Bible verses for marriage and how they can strengthen and enrich your relationship.
Bible Verse for Marriage
Ephesians 5:22-33
“Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. In this same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. After all, no one ever hated their own body, but they feed and care for their body, just as Christ does the church— for we are members of his body. “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church. However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.”
This passage provides guidance on the roles and responsibilities within a marriage. It emphasizes mutual submission, love, and respect. Wives are called to submit to their husbands, as the church submits to Christ, while husbands are called to love and care for their wives, just as Christ loves and cares for the church.
It is important to note that submission does not imply inequality or the suppression of women. Rather, it is a demonstration of trust, unity, and cooperation within the marriage relationship. Husbands are called to sacrificially love their wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. This love is not self-centered or controlling, but selfless and nurturing.
Marriage is seen as a sacred union, symbolizing the relationship between Christ and the church. It is a reminder of the deep love, commitment, and sacrifice demonstrated by Christ, and it serves as a representation of God’s love and grace in the world.
Genesis 2:24
“That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”
This verse highlights the biblical origin of marriage. It emphasizes the leaving of one’s family and the union between a husband and wife. Marriage is a commitment to unite as one, both physically and emotionally.
This verse also speaks to the permanence of marriage, as it is a lifelong covenant. It encourages couples to prioritize their relationship and establish a strong foundation that is built on trust, love, and mutual support.
Proverbs 18:22
“He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.”
This verse signifies the value and blessing of finding a life partner. Marriage is seen as a gift from God, and it brings favor and blessings into one’s life. It is a reminder to cherish and appreciate one’s spouse, recognizing them as a source of goodness and favor in their life.
It also suggests that finding the right partner is a matter of divine providence and guidance. As individuals seek God’s will and follow His leading, they may find a spouse who is a perfect fit for them, bringing joy and fulfillment in their relationship.
1 Corinthians 7:3-4
“The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but yields it to his wife.”
This passage emphasizes the importance of sexual intimacy and mutual satisfaction within a marriage. It encourages husbands and wives to fulfill their marital responsibilities and meet each other’s needs.
It also highlights the concept of mutual submission and selflessness in a marital relationship. Both partners are called to yield their bodies to one another, demonstrating a commitment to prioritize and satisfy each other’s physical needs.
Matthew 19:5-6
“For this reason, a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
This verse reiterates the significance of the unity and permanence of marriage. It emphasizes that when two people enter into marriage, they become one, both physically and spiritually.
It also emphasizes the sacredness of marriage, as it is a union that is established and blessed by God. Therefore, it is not to be taken lightly or easily dissolved. It serves as a reminder of the commitment and covenant that couples make before God and each other.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
This passage emphasizes the strength and benefits of companionship and unity within a marriage. It highlights that having a partner provides support, assistance, and protection.
Marriage is seen as a partnership where two people can lean on each other in times of need, offering encouragement, assistance, and guidance. It also suggests that unity within a marriage brings warmth, comfort, and strength, enabling couples to face the challenges of life together.
The mention of a cord of three strands refers to the inclusion of God within the marital relationship. By making God the foundation and center of their marriage, couples can find strength and stability, ensuring that their bond is not easily broken.
1 Peter 3:7
“Husbands, in the same way, be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life so that nothing will hinder your prayers.”
This verse addresses husbands and instructs them to be considerate, respectful, and understanding towards their wives. It emphasizes the importance of treating wives as equal partners and acknowledging their worth and value.
Marriage is meant to be a relationship of mutual love, respect, and honor. Husbands are called to honor their wives, recognizing them as co-heirs of God’s grace and the gift of life.
Additionally, the verse suggests that the quality of a husband’s treatment of his wife can have an impact on his relationship with God. It highlights the interconnectedness of our relationships and the importance of fostering an environment of love, respect, and harmony within marriage.
Mark 10:7-9
“For this reason, a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
This verse mirrors the teachings on marriage found in Matthew 19:5-6 and emphasizes the unity and permanence of the marital bond. It reaffirms that when two individuals enter into marriage, they become one and are inseparable in the eyes of God.
The verse serves as a reminder of the sacredness and significance of marriage. It cautions against any actions or attitudes that may seek to separate what God has joined together.
Colossians 3:14
“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
This verse encourages couples to prioritize love as the foundation for their relationship. Love is described as a unifying force that brings other virtues, such as kindness, compassion, forgiveness, and patience, together.
By cultivating love within their marriage, couples can experience a deep sense of unity and harmony. Love has the power to overcome disagreements, misunderstandings, and challenges, creating an environment of mutual understanding and support.
Proverbs 19:14
“Houses and wealth are inherited from parents, but a prudent wife is from the Lord.”
This verse highlights the value and importance of a wise and discerning wife. It suggests that a spouse who possesses wisdom, understanding, and discernment is a gift from the Lord.
A wise wife can bring stability, guidance, and wisdom to a marriage. Her qualities can contribute to the success, happiness, and prosperity of the family. This verse serves as a reminder to appreciate and cherish the wisdom and insights that a spouse brings to the marital relationship.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
Known as the “Love Chapter,” this passage describes the characteristics and qualities of true, unconditional love. It provides a blueprint for how couples should aspire to love one another within the context of marriage.
Love is described as patient, kind, humble, selfless, forgiving, and faithful. It is a form of love that is not based on personal gain or satisfaction but seeks the well-being and happiness of the other person.
This verse serves as a reminder that love is the bedrock of a successful and fulfilling marriage. By embodying these qualities, couples can create an environment of love, trust, and mutual support.
The Song of Solomon 8:7
“Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot sweep it away. If one were to give all the wealth of one’s house for love, it would be utterly scorned.”
This verse from the Song of Solomon illustrates the enduring and powerful nature of love. Love is described as something that cannot be extinguished or overcome by any external force, such as the waters of many rivers.
It emphasizes the immense value and preciousness of love, illustrating that it cannot be bought or traded for material possessions. Love is seen as something that is immeasurable, priceless, and worthy of utmost respect and admiration.
Hebrews 13:4
“Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.”
This verse teaches the importance of honoring and upholding the sanctity of marriage. It emphasizes the need for faithfulness, purity, and fidelity within the marital relationship.
Marriage is seen as a sacred covenant, deserving of respect and reverence. It cautions against engaging in adultery or any form of sexual immorality, reminding individuals of the consequences that may follow.
This verse serves as a reminder that marriage is not to be taken lightly or entered into casually. It prompts individuals to consider the commitment, responsibility, and integrity required in upholding the sanctity of marriage.
Proverbs 31:10-12
“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life.”
This passage praises the qualities and virtues of a wife of noble character. It suggests that such a wife is of great value, surpassing even the worth of precious gemstones.
A wife of noble character is described as trustworthy, supportive, and valuable to her husband. She is seen as a source of blessing, bringing goodness, not harm, to her husband throughout their lifetime.
This verse serves as a reminder to appreciate and honor the qualities that a wife brings to a marriage. It emphasizes the importance of mutual trust, respect, and support within the relationship.
Ruth 1:16-17
“But Ruth replied, ‘Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the Lord deal with me, be it ever so severely, if even death separates you and me.'”
This passage from the book of Ruth illustrates the loyalty, commitment, and devotion between Ruth and her mother-in-law, Naomi. Ruth expresses her determination to remain by Naomi’s side, even in the face of hardship and adversity.
This verse exemplifies the sacrificial and selfless nature of love within a marriage. It reflects a willingness to prioritize the well-being and needs of one’s spouse above personal desires and comforts.
Ruth’s pledge is a testament to the power of unity and dedication within the marital relationship. It serves as an inspiration for couples to remain steadfast and supportive of one another, even in challenging circumstances.
Malachi 2:16
“The man who hates and divorces his wife,” says the Lord, the God of Israel, “does violence to the one he should protect,” says the Lord Almighty. So be on your guard, and do not be unfaithful.”
This verse addresses the seriousness and consequences of divorce. It highlights that divorce not only damages the marital relationship but also causes harm and violence to the spouse who should be protected and cherished.
Marriage is meant to be a covenant of love and commitment, and divorce goes against this ideal. It urges individuals to be vigilant and to guard their hearts against unfaithfulness and the breakdown of the marriage.
This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of actively working to protect and nurture the marriage relationship, rather than resorting to divorce as a solution to difficulties or challenges.
Proverbs 14:1
“The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down.”
This verse acknowledges the significant role that women play in building and shaping the home. It emphasizes the importance of wisdom, discernment, and intentional action in creating a loving and peaceful household.
Women are encouraged to use their words, actions, and influence to build up their homes, contributing to the well-being and harmony of their families. It underscores the impact that a wise and virtuous wife can have on the overall atmosphere and success of the household.
This verse also serves as a reminder to all individuals, both men and women, to contribute positively and intentionally to the building and nurturing of their homes.
Proverbs 21:9
“Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.”
This verse warns against the negative effects of living with a contentious and argumentative spouse. It suggests that it is better to dwell alone in a corner of the house than to share a dwelling with a wife who constantly brings forth strife and conflict.
It serves as a reminder that peace, harmony, and the absence of constant conflict are important in a marriage. It encourages both spouses to foster an environment of love, understanding, and respect, where disagreements can be resolved in a healthy and constructive manner.
1 Peter 4:8
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.”
This verse emphasizes the power and importance of love in overcoming and forgiving the mistakes and shortcomings within a marriage. It encourages couples to love one another deeply and unconditionally.
Love has the ability to cover and forgive a multitude of sins, allowing couples to move forward and grow together. It fosters an environment of grace, redemption, and healing, where past mistakes do not define the future of the relationship.
This verse serves as a reminder that love should be the guiding principle and motivation within a marriage, enabling couples to navigate challenges and maintain a strong and resilient bond.
1 Corinthians 16:14
“Do everything in love.”
This simple yet powerful verse encapsulates the overarching principle that should guide all actions, decisions, and interactions within a marriage: love.
Love, as described in 1 Corinthians 13, should be the foundation and motivation for everything within the marital relationship. It encompasses kindness, selflessness, compassion, forgiveness, and other virtues that are necessary for a healthy and fulfilling marriage.
This verse encourages couples to approach every aspect of their lives, both big and small, with love as their guiding principle. By doing so, they can cultivate a marriage that is characterized by joy, peace, and growth.
Matthew 7:12
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”
Although this verse is not directly about marriage, it provides a fundamental principle that is applicable to all relationships, including marriage. It is known as the Golden Rule: to treat others as we would like to be treated.
In the context of marriage, this principle encourages spouses to consider the feelings, needs, and desires of their partner and to act towards them with kindness, respect, and love. By embodying the Golden Rule, couples can create an atmosphere of mutual care, understanding, and support within their marriage.
This verse serves as a reminder that marriage is not solely about our personal needs and desires but also about actively seeking and fulfilling the needs and desires of our spouse.
Ecclesiastes 4:9
“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor.”
This verse highlights the benefits and advantages of a partnership within marriage. It underscores the principle that two individuals working together can achieve more and experience greater success than when working alone.
Marriage is seen as a partnership where couples can complement one another’s strengths and weaknesses. They can work together towards common goals, support each other’s endeavors, and accomplish more than they could individually.
This verse serves as a reminder of the value of teamwork, cooperation, and collaboration within a marriage. It encourages spouses to leverage each other’s strengths, talents, and abilities to create a strong and fruitful partnership.
Also Read: 20 Important Bible Verses About Rest (With Commentary)
What Does the Bible Say About Marriage?
In exploring what the Bible says about marriage, we find guidance and principles that have shaped the understanding of this sacred union for centuries. While the Bible does not provide a single, comprehensive guide to marriage, it offers a wealth of wisdom through various passages and teachings.
Marriage as a Sacred Covenant
In the Bible, marriage is often depicted as a sacred covenant between a man and a woman. One of the most well-known passages on this topic is found in the Old Testament, in the book of Genesis (Genesis 2:24). It states that “a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” This verse emphasizes the unity and permanence of marriage.
Love and Respect in Marriage
Ephesians 5:22-33 provides valuable insight into the roles of husbands and wives within marriage. It instructs husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church, and wives to respect their husbands. This passage underscores the importance of love, respect, and mutual submission within a marital relationship.
Faithfulness and Fidelity
The Bible consistently upholds the value of faithfulness and fidelity within marriage. The Seventh Commandment in the Old Testament, “You shall not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14), explicitly prohibits infidelity. This commandment reflects the importance of maintaining trust and loyalty in marriage.
Divorce and Remarriage
The Bible acknowledges the reality of divorce but generally discourages it. In the New Testament, Jesus teaches about divorce in Matthew 19:3-9 and Mark 10:2-12, emphasizing that divorce should only occur in cases of marital unfaithfulness. Remarriage after divorce is a topic of debate among Christians, with interpretations varying among denominations.
Mutual Support and Partnership
Throughout the Bible, marriage is portrayed as a partnership in which spouses support and help one another. In 1 Corinthians 7:3-5, the importance of fulfilling each other’s physical needs within marriage is emphasized, highlighting the mutual responsibility for the well-being of both spouses.
Family and Parenting
The Bible also addresses the role of marriage in the family structure. It encourages parents to raise their children in the ways of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4) and provides guidance on nurturing a loving and godly family environment.
Submission and Sacrifice
The concept of submission and sacrifice is central to the biblical view of marriage. Both spouses are called to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ (Ephesians 5:21), and this mutual submission fosters a climate of love, selflessness, and unity.
In conclusion, the Bible offers a rich tapestry of teachings and principles regarding marriage. It emphasizes the sacredness of the marital covenant, the importance of love, respect, and fidelity, and the mutual support and partnership between spouses. While it acknowledges the reality of divorce, it generally encourages lifelong commitment and mutual submission within the marital relationship. Ultimately, the Bible provides a foundation for understanding and nurturing healthy, God-honoring marriages.