In the Australian Parliament there is a debate over what relationships can use the word “marriage”.  The argument tends to concern legal entitlements. Prenuptial agreements for marriage assume the likelihood of a breakdown and marriage is being increasingly seen as a contract not a place of care!

A contract may be broken with mutual consent of the parties and is self-serving, being focused on what one gets. Marriage on the other hand is a commitment based on trust—its promise is unconditional and has no termination date! A marriage vow is intended to be unbreakable and is others-serving, focused on what one gives!

God’s intention for marriage is that it is a mutual love relationship set up for life.  While the Bible provides grounds for divorce and remarriage, the clear priority is for grace and reconciliation with your partner.

Divorce and remarriage is allowed by God because of our “hardness of heart”.  It allows some good to be retrieved when commitment from their vows has been withdrawn.  However divorce should be the exception that is thoroughly tested by the Bible and wise Christian counsel.

The best way to preserve your marriage is prevention of problems rather than cure. Spend time building your relationship and learning to care for your partner.

Stephen Semenchuk
Senior Minister