Project – Biblical teaching on christian marriage and its implication on Church Doctrine.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
- Background to the Study
Biblical teaching on Christian marriage forms the foundational basis for how many churches conceptualize and implement their doctrines regarding relationships, sexuality, and family life. The Bible describes marriage as a divine institution ordained by God in the creation narrative. Genesis 2:24 states, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh” (English Standard Version). This verse not only signifies the unity of man and woman in marriage but also establishes the covenantal nature of this relationship. Scholars such as Köstenberger and Jones (2010) argue that this foundational passage underlines God’s design for heterosexual, monogamous, and lifelong unions, which has become a doctrinal cornerstone for many denominations.
In the New Testament, Jesus reinforces this Old Testament understanding of marriage. In Matthew 19:4–6, Jesus quotes Genesis and emphasizes that what God has joined together should not be separated by human action. This affirmation by Jesus elevates marriage to a spiritual covenant rather than a mere social contract. Furthermore, Paul’s teachings in Ephesians 5:22–33 present marriage as a profound mystery that mirrors the relationship between Christ and the Church. O’Brien (1999) interprets this passage as deeply theological, positioning marriage as a means to reflect God’s redemptive love and order. Thus, the apostolic teachings also shape the church’s doctrine, emphasizing sacrificial love, mutual respect, and spiritual unity.
These biblical foundations significantly influence church doctrines, particularly in their stances on divorce, gender roles, and sexuality. For instance, the Roman Catholic Church views marriage as a sacrament, inseparable and sanctified, largely based on Matthew 19 and Pauline theology (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1997). Protestant traditions, while differing on the sacramental nature of marriage, generally uphold similar ethical and moral standards, especially regarding fidelity and permanence. The biblical portrayal of marriage as a covenant influences doctrines concerning the legitimacy of divorce and remarriage, with varying interpretations across denominations. Piper (2009) suggests that an unwavering commitment to biblical authority leads to conservative stances on these issues, promoting marriage as a reflection of divine order.
Church doctrines have also grappled with the implications of biblical marriage teaching in light of contemporary societal changes. Issues such as same-sex marriage, gender equality, and cohabitation before marriage have challenged traditional doctrines rooted in biblical texts. While some denominations have revised their doctrinal statements to embrace inclusivity, others maintain that such changes compromise biblical truth. According to Brownson (2013), interpretations of the biblical text often hinge on broader theological commitments—whether to a static or dynamic understanding of Scripture. This doctrinal tension highlights how biblical teaching on marriage continues to shape and divide ecclesial communities.
Moreover, the biblical view of marriage has implications for pastoral care and church discipline. Churches often derive counseling practices, marriage preparation programs, and church membership criteria from scriptural principles. For example, many evangelical churches emphasize premarital counseling based on Ephesians 5 to instill biblical values in couples. This practical outworking of doctrine reinforces marriage not just as a theological concept but as a lived, community-supported reality. Thus, the biblical teaching on marriage has a holistic effect, guiding not only beliefs but also behaviors and institutional practices.
In summary, biblical teachings on Christian marriage—rooted in both Old and New Testament narratives—serve as the theological foundation for much of Christian church doctrine. These teachings inform beliefs about the sanctity, purpose, and structure of marriage, and influence how churches respond to modern cultural challenges. As the church continues to engage with evolving societal norms, the biblical doctrine of marriage remains a critical lens through which theology, ethics, and pastoral practice are interpreted and enacted.
- Statement of the Problem
Despite the clarity and consistency of biblical teachings on Christian marriage, there exists increasing ambiguity and doctrinal fragmentation within contemporary churches regarding the interpretation and application of these teachings. The core biblical principles—monogamy, heterosexual union, lifelong commitment, and spiritual unity—are being questioned or redefined by some denominations in response to evolving cultural, legal, and social norms. This shift raises significant theological concerns about the authority of Scripture and the consistency of Christian doctrine across denominations.
One of the central problems is the apparent tension between biblical marriage ideals and modern societal developments such as the legalization of same-sex marriage, increasing divorce rates, and changing gender roles. While some churches adhere strictly to biblical models of marriage as found in Genesis 2 and Ephesians 5, others have reinterpreted these texts to support broader definitions of marriage. This divergence has resulted in doctrinal confusion and in some cases, denominational splits, indicating a pressing need to reassess the role of biblical authority in forming church doctrine.
Furthermore, pastoral challenges have emerged as churches struggle to maintain theological fidelity while also responding compassionately to the lived realities of their members. Issues such as remarriage after divorce, cohabitation before marriage, and LGBTQ+ inclusion in church life highlight the practical implications of doctrinal inconsistencies. These challenges have led to varied practices in church membership, leadership eligibility, and sacramental participation, raising questions about ecclesial unity and doctrinal coherence.
Another problem lies in the lack of comprehensive teaching and understanding of biblical marriage among many church members. Inadequate theological education, coupled with increasing exposure to secular ideologies, has led to a decline in the acceptance of traditional biblical values concerning marriage. Many Christians today hold views on marriage that are more culturally influenced than biblically grounded, creating a disconnect between personal belief and church doctrine. This dissonance threatens the integrity and witness of the Church.
Moreover, intergenerational conflict has emerged within churches regarding marriage doctrine. Younger believers often advocate for inclusivity and flexibility, while older generations tend to uphold traditional teachings. This generational divide complicates church leadership decisions, doctrinal statements, and worship practices. Without a unified understanding and application of biblical marriage, churches risk losing both their theological foundation and their relational harmony.
In light of these challenges, there is a critical need for a deeper examination of the biblical teaching on Christian marriage and its doctrinal implications for the Church. Addressing this problem requires theological clarity, doctrinal consistency, and pastoral sensitivity. The Church must seek to affirm the authority of Scripture while engaging meaningfully with contemporary questions, ensuring that its doctrines remain both biblically faithful and pastorally relevant.
- Purpose of the Study
The purpose of the study is to examine Biblical teaching on christian marriage and its implication on Church Doctrine. The specific objectives are:
- To examine key passages in the Bible that address marriage and relationships.
- To analyze how these Biblical teachings have influenced traditional Christian views on marriage.
- To explore how interpretations of these teachings have evolved over time within the Church.
- To assess the impact of these teachings on modern Church Doctrine regarding marriage and family.
- Significance of the Study
The significance of this study lies primarily in its contribution to theological clarity regarding the biblical teaching on Christian marriage and its practical implications for church doctrine. As debates about the definition and purpose of marriage continue to intensify within both society and the Church, this study provides a grounded biblical framework that can guide churches in articulating coherent, consistent doctrines. By reaffirming the scriptural foundations of marriage, the study aims to support church leaders and theologians in making informed doctrinal decisions that are faithful to biblical revelation.
This study is also significant for pastors and church leaders who face pastoral challenges related to marriage and family life within their congregations. Many leaders encounter situations involving divorce, remarriage, cohabitation, and differing views on gender roles or sexuality. The study’s exploration of biblical principles equips these leaders with theological insight and practical wisdom to counsel members, administer sacraments, and foster healthy marital relationships that reflect Christian values. Thus, it enhances the pastoral ministry’s capacity to address contemporary marital issues from a scriptural standpoint.
Additionally, the study holds importance for Christian education and discipleship programs within churches. By highlighting the biblical teachings on marriage and their doctrinal implications, the research can inform curriculum development for youth groups, marriage preparation classes, and adult education. Providing congregants with a solid understanding of marriage as a divine covenant encourages commitment to biblical values, potentially reducing confusion influenced by secular cultural narratives. This educational role strengthens the spiritual formation of believers in alignment with church doctrine.
On a broader ecclesiastical level, the study addresses the growing doctrinal fragmentation among Christian denominations regarding marriage. By engaging with biblical texts and theological interpretations, it offers a resource for ecumenical dialogue and potential reconciliation among divergent views. The study thus contributes to efforts aimed at fostering unity within the Body of Christ, encouraging churches to find common ground based on the authoritative teachings of Scripture rather than cultural trends.
Moreover, the research is significant for the wider society, as the Church’s understanding and teaching on marriage inevitably influence social values and practices. By providing a biblically grounded perspective on marriage, the study helps the Church articulate its role in shaping cultural norms related to family, sexuality, and moral responsibility. This engagement is critical in a pluralistic society where various worldviews compete, ensuring that the Church remains a prophetic voice upholding the dignity and sanctity of marriage.
Finally, this study contributes to the academic field of theology and religious studies by filling gaps in existing literature concerning the intersection of biblical teaching and contemporary church doctrine on marriage. It offers a systematic analysis that can serve as a foundation for further research in practical theology, ethics, and ecclesiology. Scholars, students, and practitioners will find the study valuable for deepening their understanding of how Scripture informs and shapes Christian doctrine in a changing world.
- Scope of the Study
The study examines Biblical teaching on christian marriage and its implication on Church Doctrine. The study is restricted to Edo East District of Assemblies of God, Nigeria.
1.6 Limitation of the Study
This study focuses specifically on the biblical teaching on Christian marriage and its implications for church doctrine, limiting its scope to theological and doctrinal analysis within the Christian faith. While the Bible provides foundational principles for marriage, interpretations can vary widely across different Christian traditions and cultural contexts. Consequently, the findings and conclusions drawn from this study may not fully capture the diversity of beliefs and practices concerning marriage in other denominations or religious communities outside the Assemblies of God. Additionally, the study’s emphasis on doctrinal implications may not address all pastoral, sociological, or psychological aspects related to marriage within the church context.
Geographically, the study is restricted to the Edo East District of the Assemblies of God church in Nigeria. This localized focus limits the generalizability of the findings to other regions, denominations, or cultural settings. The unique cultural, social, and ecclesiastical dynamics of the Edo East District may influence how biblical teachings on marriage are understood and applied, which might differ significantly from other Assemblies of God districts or broader Nigerian or global contexts. Therefore, while the study provides valuable insights within its specific setting, caution should be exercised when applying its conclusions to other church communities or regions.
1.7. Research Questions
The research questions are buttressed below:
- What are the key passages in the Bible that address marriage and relationships?
- How have these Biblical teachings influenced traditional Christian views on marriage?
- How have interpretations of these teachings evolved over time within the Church?
- What is the impact of these teachings on modern Church Doctrine regarding marriage and family?
1.8. Research Hypothesis
The hypothetical Statement of the study is buttressed below:
Ho: Biblical teachings have no influence on traditional Christian views on marriage
H1: Biblical teachings have influence on traditional Christian views on marriage
1.9. Operational Definition of Terms
Biblical Teaching: Biblical teaching refers to the instructions, principles, and doctrines derived from the canonical texts of the Bible. It encompasses the moral, spiritual, and theological guidance communicated through Scripture, which believers accept as authoritative and normative for faith and practice. In this study, biblical teaching specifically pertains to the messages and instructions about marriage as found in both the Old and New Testaments.
Christian: A Christian is a person who follows the teachings of Jesus Christ and identifies with the faith that centers on His life, death, and resurrection. Christianity is a monotheistic religion based on the Bible, particularly the New Testament, and emphasizes belief in Christ as Lord and Savior. Christians live according to the principles and ethics derived from biblical revelation and church tradition.
Marriage: Marriage is a socially and spiritually recognized covenantal union between a man and a woman, established by God according to biblical teaching. It is characterized by a lifelong commitment, mutual love, fidelity, and the intention to create a family unit. In the Christian context, marriage also symbolizes the relationship between Christ and the Church, highlighting its sacred and covenantal nature.
Implication: An implication is a consequence, effect, or result that logically follows from a particular action, belief, or teaching. In theological discourse, implication refers to the practical or doctrinal outcomes that arise from interpreting and applying biblical teachings. For this study, it denotes how the biblical understanding of marriage influences the formulation and practice of church doctrine.
Church Doctrine: Church doctrine consists of the official teachings and beliefs that are formally established and upheld by a Christian church or denomination. These doctrines are derived from Scripture, tradition, theological reflection, and ecclesiastical authority. Church doctrine guides the faith, worship, moral conduct, and governance of the church community.
