Rethinking Marriage: A Christian Perspective
As Christians, we are often faced with the question of whether we should support or oppose same-sex marriage. While some argue that it is a matter of personal freedom and equality, others believe that it goes against the biblical definition of marriage. But what does the Bible really say about marriage?
Understanding the Biblical Definition of Marriage
The Bible defines marriage as a conjugal union between a man and a woman, oriented around the rearing of children. This understanding is rooted in the creation story, where God created male and female to be one flesh. The government has traditionally recognized and supported this institution because it has a vested interest in promoting and defending the relationship that is most conducive to raising healthy children.
The Government’s Role in Defining Marriage
However, the question now facing Western countries is whether the government should redefine marriage to include same-sex relationships. Some argue that this would be a step forward for equality and freedom, but others believe that it would undermine the traditional understanding of marriage and have unintended consequences.
The Slippery Slope Argument
One of the concerns about redefining marriage is that it could lead to a slippery slope, where other forms of relationships are also recognized as marriages. For example, why should polyamorous relationships or relationships between family members not be recognized as marriages? This raises questions about the nature of marriage and what constitutes a valid relationship.
The Heart of the Matter
At the heart of this debate is the question of what marriage is and what it means to society. Is it primarily an institution for the benefit of adults, or is it an institution that exists for the benefit of children and the wider community? Christians must think carefully about these questions and consider the implications of redefining marriage.
A Call to Action
As Christians, we cannot be indifferent to this debate. We must engage with the issues and think carefully about what the Bible says about marriage. We must also consider the potential consequences of redefining marriage and how it may affect our communities and our children. Ultimately, we must seek to honor Christ in our response to this issue and work towards a solution that promotes the well-being of all people.
About the Author
Kevin DeYoung is the senior pastor at Christ Covenant Church in Matthews, North Carolina, and associate professor of systematic theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte. He has written several books on Christianity and theology, including “Just Do Something” and “The Biggest Story Bible Storybook.”
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