The End of Marriage

The cultural trends point to the end of marriage as we once knew it. Marriage now binds only a minority of homes in the U.S. The "out-of-wedlock" birth rates continue to climb in the U.S. and abroad. In one since, the end, or doom, of marriage appears to be on the horizon. That's not the question, nor the intent of phrase.

In the Old English understanding, we would be speaking of the chief aim, "the end", the goal, or the purpose of marriage. Blogging today, Elizabeth Doherty Thomas, ask it this way, "What is marriage for, anyway?". She concludes, "So there you have it. Marriage (in my own view), is for deep personal gain, marriage is an ideal setting for children (for we all would aspire to be brought into this world loved by both our mother and father who also love each other and can model for us what a loving adult relationship can be), and marriage is for the broader community to separate the casual relationship with the committed relationship." Unity in purpose does strengthen marriages, when mere "love" will wax and wane, but there is yet a greater end to consider.

Marriage, it's physical intimacy will certainly bear fruit. The question is what type of fruit? What kind of offspring will shoot up for the union of man and woman. What degree of effort will be put forth by the bearers of children? The conception is only one aspect of the fruit? It is the rearing of children, the effort poured into the upbringing that will result in a rotten apple or not.

I read in the sacred letters, the story of God longing and desiring a godly people. A people and fruit likened to His image. Godly offspring. Godly offspring is what he desires. Look for yourself. The following reference may lead your heart to "the end of marriage". A unity and purpose that seeks to please the Lord.

- Instructions to Adam & Eve, Gen 1:28
- Instructions to Moses & Israel, Deut 6:1-9
- Abraham’s Appointment (just before the destruction of Sodom), Gen 18:19
- Israel’s Unfaithfulness, Malachi 2:13-15
- An Elder’s Example, Titus 1:5-9 (esp. v. 6)