Why They Must Point To Jesus.

When a widow or widower finds a new partner, there’s a temptation to ignore the standards that are often set for first time marriages. Even in Christian circles, this is often the case.

A pastor who emphasises the importance of the new partner’s faith may hear comments from friends or family members: “What’s the big deal? It’s their second marriage! Let them be happy! If they’re a good person, who cares?“

The short answer is, “Jesus cares.“

The Greater Second Chance

We need to remember that marriage points to something greater!

“A woman is bound to her husband as long as he lives. But if her husband dies, she is free to marry anyone she wishes, but he must belong to the Lord.” (1 Cor. 7:39 – NIV)

“A wife is bound to her husband as long as he lives. But if her husband dies, she is free to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord.” (1 Cor. 7:39 – ESV)

Paul understood the standard for any marriage…even a second marriage.

Any time we talk about marriage we need to recognize that our world sees marriage as just some legal commitment between two people who love each other. But for those of us who believe that the Bible is the Word of God, marriage is so much more than that!

We can’t forget what will take place at the end of time, between Jesus and us (His church, His bride).

“Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready.” (Rev. 19:7)

Marriage Points To Jesus

When we make a choice to Follow Jesus (becoming a Believer in Jesus Christ), we receive a second chance at life. We become a part of His bride, the church, and receive the gift not of a second earthly life, but an eternal life in heaven, with Him.

And this is ultimately why marriage is such an important decision for us as Christians!

We’ve got to get it right from the start, because every earthly marriage is an opportunity to represent that infinite marriage between us, and Jesus. Every earthly marriage, even a second chance marriage, is an opportunity to represent the Gospel to this fallen world.

It doesn’t matter if it’s our first, second, third or even seventh marriage. Scripture is clear, that its an important covenant between two believers. We can not and should not take it lightly.

Join the Conversation, Leave Your Thoughts

In your opinion, why is the earthly marriage covenant so important to the greater Gospel story?