By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Text: Matthew 19:4-6 (NKJV)
*"And He answered and said to them, 'Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning made them male and female,' and said, 'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh'? So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.'”*
INTRODUCTION
Marriage is a divine institution ordained by God from the beginning of creation. It is a union that transcends the physical, joining two individuals into one spiritual, emotional, and physical entity. Today, as we gather to witness this sacred covenant, it is crucial to understand the significance of the words "No longer two but one."
1. THE DIVINE DESIGN OF MARRIAGE
In Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus refers to the original design of marriage as instituted by God in Genesis 2:24. When God created Adam, He saw that it was not good for man to be alone and created Eve as a suitable helper (Genesis 2:18). The union of Adam and Eve was the first marriage, and it set the precedent for all marriages to come.
- Unity in Creation:
God created them male and female, emphasizing the complementary nature of the husband and wife. Each brings unique qualities and strengths, and together, they form a complete unit. This unity is reflected in the words "the two shall become one flesh." It is a mystery how God joins two distinct individuals into one entity, but it is a profound truth that underpins the marriage covenant.
2. BECOMING ONE IN PURPOSE
The phrase "no longer two but one" signifies more than just physical union; it represents a unity of purpose, goals, and vision. In marriage, the husband and wife are called to walk together in agreement (Amos 3:3).
- Shared Vision:
A successful marriage is built on a shared vision and purpose. The husband and wife must align their lives with God's will and work together to fulfil His plans. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 reminds us that two are better than one because they have a good reward for their labour. Together, they can accomplish much more than they could individually.
3. ONE IN LOVE AND SACRIFICE
Ephesians 5:25-33 provides a beautiful picture of the sacrificial love that is to characterize the marriage relationship. The husband is called to love his wife as Christ loved the church and gave Himself for her. This love is selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional.
- Mutual Submission:
Ephesians 5:21 also calls both husband and wife to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. This mutual submission is a key component of becoming "one." It involves putting the needs and desires of the other person above your own and seeking to serve one another in love.
- Example of Christ and the Church:
Just as Christ and the Church are one, so too should the husband and wife be. The marriage relationship is a reflection of the union between Christ and His Bride, the Church. It is a sacred bond that should be nurtured and protected.
4. A BOND THAT CAN NOT BE BROKEN
Jesus emphasizes that what God has joined together, no one should separate (Matthew 19:6). Marriage is a lifelong covenant that is not to be taken lightly. It is a bond that should be cherished and guarded.
- Commitment:
In a world where commitment is often fleeting, marriage calls for a deep, unwavering commitment to one another. It requires faithfulness, perseverance, and a resolve to stand by each other through all of life’s challenges.
- Covenant Before God:
Marriage is not just a contract between two individuals; it is a covenant before God. As Malachi 2:14-16 explains, God is a witness to the marriage covenant, and He desires that it be upheld with integrity and faithfulness.
CONCLUSION:
Today, as we witness the joining of these two lives, let us be reminded of the profound mystery and beauty of marriage. The journey ahead will have its challenges, but with Christ at the centre, this union can thrive and grow stronger each day.
May this marriage be a reflection of God’s love, a testimony of His grace, and an example of the unity that He intended from the beginning. Let the words of Matthew 19:6 resonate in our hearts: *“So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.”*
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of marriage and the beautiful union we celebrate today. We pray that You bless this couple, guiding them as they embark on this journey together. May their love grow deeper with each passing day, and may they always find their strength in You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of marriage and the beautiful union we celebrate today. We pray that You bless this couple, guiding them as they embark on this journey together. May their love grow deeper with each passing day, and may they always find their strength in You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
