As we begin to consider the topic of marriage, we’ll take the advice of Julie Andrews in The Sound of Music, “Let’s start at the very beginning, a very good place to start.” In fact, when questioned by the Pharisees about marriage, Jesus appeals to the fundamental principles established at the Creation – the very beginning, indeed.

“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.’” (Matthew 19:4)

The tone of Jesus’ response indicates that He expected these men to already understand the answer to the question they were asking. Too often we want to make an issue more complicated than it really is because we are seeking to justify our own selfish motives. “Have you not read?” The answer always lies in the foundational principles of God’s word. 

Jesus’ call to Creation when teaching about marriage begs some questions: What are the principles that Creation teaches us about marriage? Are ancient ideas about marriage relevant in a new and modern society? In other words, Adam & Eve spent their time walking around naked, in a garden; what does that possibly have to do with my marriage today?

I submit that every foundational principle of God’s plan for marriage was established in the short account in Genesis 1-3. Let’s “start at the very beginning” and explore some of these principles over the next few posts.

• What are the constituents of marriage? What is required for two people to be married?
• What does it mean for marriage to be a covenant? Does this have some special implication in how I must honor this commitment?
• What is the nature of marriage? Why did God create “male and female”?
• What is the basis and purpose of marriage? Why did God establish a marriage relationship? What role does marriage play in fulfilling God’s will for mankind?

I feel like the first installment of this “blog” ought to be grand and profound. This first post is likely neither, but I can personally vouch for the fact that there is greatness in the power of God’s plan for marriage! With His grace, Jenn & I hope to use this medium as an opportunity to share  some of the principles and lessons that we have learned in our marriage journey. Thanks for reading. Your comments and feedback are welcomed!