Prenuptial agreements, or “prenups,” have become increasingly common in today’s marriages, but what does the Bible say about them? While prenups are a modern legal practice, the Bible offers timeless principles about marriage, commitment, and the sharing of lives and resources. Is there room for a prenup in a Christian marriage, or does it contradict the idea of unconditional unity? Let’s explore the Bible’s teachings on marriage, trust, and how couples can approach this topic with faith and wisdom.
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What Does The Bible Say About Prenups
Genesis 2:24
“Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.”
This verse emphasizes the sacredness and unity of marriage. It implies that a strong commitment and bond should be formed between a husband and wife, prioritizing their relationship above all others.
While prenups may be a legal consideration, they should not be approached as an undermining of the commitment and unity expressed in this verse. Rather, they should be approached with open communication, trust, and a mutual understanding of protecting both parties’ interests.
1 Corinthians 7:3-4
“The husband should give to his wife her conjugal rights, and likewise the wife to her husband. For the wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. Likewise, the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does.”
This verse highlights the mutual responsibility and intimacy within marriage. It stresses the importance of mutual respect and meeting each other’s needs in the marital relationship.
While a prenuptial agreement may contain provisions for the division of assets in the event of divorce, it should not overshadow the importance of maintaining a healthy and loving relationship, and honoring each other’s needs and rights within the marriage.
Ephesians 5:25
“Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
This verse advocates for sacrificial love within marriage, drawing a parallel between Christ’s selfless love for the Church and the love that husbands should have for their wives.
While prenuptial agreements can be seen as a means of protecting one’s own interests, they should never override the call for husbands to sacrificially love and care for their wives, willing to put their needs above their own.
1 Peter 3:7
“Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and understanding within marriage, with husbands being called to honor their wives and treat them with understanding.
While prenuptial agreements may involve making provisions for various scenarios, it is crucial for husbands to approach such agreements with an understanding mindset, valuing and respecting their wives as equal partners in the marriage covenant.
Hebrews 13:4
“Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.”
This verse stresses the sanctity of marriage, urging believers to regard it with honor and purity.
In the context of prenuptial agreements, couples should approach the topic with the aim of protecting their marriage and upholding the moral standards set by God. The agreement should not be a license for immorality or adultery but should instead reinforce the commitment and fidelity within the marital relationship.
Matthew 19:4-6
“He answered, ‘Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.’”
This passage confirms the divine intention for marriage to be a lifelong union between a man and a woman, where they become one flesh.
While prenuptial agreements may deal with potential separations in the future, couples should approach these agreements with the understanding that marriage is meant to be a permanent covenant. The focus should ultimately be on preserving and nurturing the oneness established by God.
1 Corinthians 6:16
“Or do you not know that he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one body with her? For, as it is written, ‘The two will become one flesh.’”
This verse emphasizes the significance of the marital union, warning against sexual immorality that can sever the unity intended within marriage.
While prenuptial agreements may address matters of fidelity and potential consequences, couples should approach these agreements with a commitment to faithfulness and avoiding any actions that would compromise the unity and sanctity of their marriage.
Proverbs 21:5
“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”
This proverb instructs the value of careful planning and diligence, which can lead to prosperity.
While prenuptial agreements may involve making financial plans and provisions, it is important for couples to approach these agreements diligently and with thoughtful consideration, seeking to ensure financial stability and abundance for both parties without neglecting the spiritual, emotional, and relational aspects of their marriage.
Proverbs 22:3
“The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it.”
This proverb points to the wisdom of being aware of potential risks and taking steps to protect oneself.
While prenuptial agreements can be seen as a measure of prudence in safeguarding one’s interests, couples should approach these agreements with open communication and honesty. It is essential to address concerns and potential risks in order to build a strong foundation for the marriage rather than allowing naivety or ignorance to lead to unnecessary suffering.
Proverbs 27:23-24
“Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds, for riches do not last forever; and does a crown endure to all generations?”
This proverb underscores the importance of being aware of one’s possessions and resources, recognizing that wealth and prosperity can be temporary.
While prenuptial agreements may involve disclosing and protecting individual assets, couples should approach these agreements with the understanding that material possessions are transitory. The focus should ultimately be on building a marriage founded on love, respect, and shared values rather than solely relying on wealth or possessions.
Proverbs 31:10-11
“An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.”
This passage praises the value of an excellent wife, whose worth exceeds that of material riches, and highlights the importance of trust in the marital relationship.
While prenuptial agreements may involve assessing financial aspects, couples should prioritize trust and build a foundation of openness and honesty in their marriage. Recognizing the inherent value of their relationship and the trust they place in one another should be central, rather than solely focusing on material gain or division of assets.
Matthew 6:24
“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.”
This verse emphasizes the impossibility of serving both God and money simultaneously. It encourages believers to keep their priorities straight.
While prenuptial agreements may involve financial considerations, couples should approach them with the understanding that their ultimate allegiance should be to God and His principles. Money should not become a divisive force, but rather a tool to support their shared goals and values within their marriage.
Romans 12:10
“Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.”
This verse encourages believers to demonstrate genuine love and honor towards one another.
While prenuptial agreements may involve legal and financial considerations, couples should prioritize their love and commitment towards each other, treating one another with respect and honor throughout the process. Mutual care and consideration should always outweigh any concerns about material possessions.
Proverbs 19:14
“House and wealth are inherited from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the LORD.”
This proverb acknowledges the value and blessing of a wise and prudent wife, recognizing that she is a gift from the Lord.
While prenuptial agreements may include provisions relating to the division of inherited wealth or assets, couples should approach these agreements with gratitude for the gift of a spouse. Mutual respect and care for one another should take precedence over any material possessions or inheritance.
Proverbs 13:20
“Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.”
This proverb highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with wise and discerning individuals.
When considering a prenuptial agreement, couples should seek the guidance of experienced professionals to ensure that the agreement is fair and just. Wise counsel can help prevent potential harm and ensure that the agreement aligns with biblical principles and the couple’s shared values.
Proverbs 15:22
“Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.”
This proverb underscores the value of seeking counsel and wisdom from others in making decisions.
When contemplating a prenuptial agreement, couples should consult with trusted advisers, such as pastors, lawyers, or mediators, to receive guidance on the legal, financial, and relational implications of such an agreement. Multiple perspectives can contribute to a successful plan that considers the best interests of both parties involved.
Luke 12:15
“And he said to them, ‘Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.’”
This verse cautions against the covetous pursuit of material possessions and calls for a proper perspective on the true value of life.
While prenuptial agreements may address financial matters and possessions, couples should prioritize the quality of their relationship, recognizing that true fulfillment and contentment are not found in material wealth, but in shared love, trust, and spiritual growth.
Proverbs 16:3
“Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established.”
This proverb encourages believers to entrust their plans to the Lord, acknowledging His sovereign guidance and provision.
When considering a prenuptial agreement, couples should commit their intentions, desires, and decisions to God, seeking His wisdom and guidance in creating an agreement that reflects His principles and aligns with His will for their marriage.
1 Corinthians 16:14
“Let all that you do be done in love.”
This verse calls believers to conduct all their actions with love as the guiding principle.
When creating a prenuptial agreement, couples should approach the process with love and respect, ensuring that the agreement is fair and considers the well-being and future of both parties involved. A loving and compassionate approach should always prevail over a selfish or self-centered attitude.
1 Timothy 6:10
“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.”
This verse warns against the dangers of placing excessive importance on money and the love thereof.
When discussing a prenuptial agreement, couples should guard against allowing the love of money to cloud their judgment or compromise their commitment to each other. Their focus should be on maintaining a strong and healthy relationship that aligns with their faith in Christ.
Philippians 2:3-4
“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
These verses urge believers to prioritize humility and selflessness, considering the needs and interests of others.
When contemplating a prenuptial agreement, couples should approach the discussion and negotiation process with humility, seeking to understand and address each other’s concerns and interests. Mutual respect and consideration should guide their decisions, ensuring that both parties are cared for and honored throughout the agreement.
James 1:17
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”
This verse acknowledges that every good and perfect gift comes from God and emphasizes His consistency and faithfulness.
When considering a prenuptial agreement, couples should recognize that their marriage is a gift from God. They should approach the agreement with an attitude of gratitude, seeking to honor Him in their decisions and acknowledging that His blessings are not dependent on material possessions or wealth.
Matthew 7:12
“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.”
This verse encapsulates the principle of treating others as we would like to be treated, known as the golden rule.
When determining the terms of a prenuptial agreement, couples should consider how they would want to be treated in similar circumstances and extend the same fairness and consideration to their spouse. Mutual respect and fairness should guide their decisions, laying a foundation of trust and compassion within their marriage.