Belief #23. Marriage and the Family

[Chief]

Belief #23. Marriage and the Family

Marriage was divinely established in Eden and affirmed by Jesus to be a lifelong union between a man and a woman in loving companionship. For the Christian a marriage commitment is to God as well as to the spouse, and should be entered into only between partners who share a common faith. Mutual love, honor, respect, and responsibility are the fabric of this relationship, which is to reflect the love, sanctity, closeness, and permanence of the relationship between Christ and His church...

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[Chief]

Adventists believe God created humanity for relationships, beginning with Adam and Eve. Strong families are foundational to a thriving church and community. The Bible provides guidelines for marriage, family, and parenting.

1. Marriage: - Marriage is a lifelong union between a man and a woman, based on love, faith, and mutual respect. It reflects the relationship between Christ and His church. God blesses this union and uses it as a model of His love.
2. Challenges: - Believers are encouraged to marry fellow believers to maintain unity in faith. Divorce is only considered in cases of infidelity, and cases of abuse the abused partner has a right to seek protection. God prioritises love and kindness, never condoning abuse.
3. Parenting: - Parents should raise children with biblical guidance, promoting love and kindness. Family worship deepens bonds and enriches faith in Jesus Christ. Children are highly valued, and their upbringing should reflect God’s love.
4. Adventist Support: - Adventists support families of all structures and encourage community connection, drawing from God’s unconditional love for all.

Read more about this fundamental belief here.