Biblical Perspectives, Vol. 11 No. 1-2, 2003.
Review article
Marriage and Family
Calvin B. Rock
; Andrews University, Berrien Springs, Michigan, SAD
Abstract
The priority that Scripture places upon mar¬riage and family concerns is seen in the fact that seven of the Ten Commandments—God’s moral law—reference its functions. They are: commandment number 2, which relates the actions of parents to the prosperity of their children; number 4, which directs the family to Sabbath obedience; number 5, which man-dates respect of children for parents; and number 10, which prohibits coveting anything belonging to another’s household. Three of the remaining six, while not specifically nam¬ing family members, give explicit guidance for family relations. Number 7 prohibits adultery; number 8 rules against stealing; and number 9 forbids the misrepresentation of one’s neighbor.
An additional evidence of divine regard for marriage and family concerns is seen in the fact that Christ, who created the human race (Col. 1:16) and as the great “I AM” provided the moral law as guide for its conduct (John 8:58; Ex. 31:14, 18), utilized the marriage cer¬emony as the setting for His inaugural miracle (John 2:1-11). Both by precept and example the Scriptures make clear God’s concern for the welfare of the home.
Since the family structures of Bible days often were distortions of God’s original plan, one cannot take all biblical families as models. It is necessary to differentiate between the absolutes of divine intent and the relative ac¬commodations that devolved after sin. Never-theless, the individual who prayerfully studies scriptural principles regarding the family will find relevant and effective guidance.
Keywords
Marriage; Family; Bible-about-marriage; Father; Mother; Divorce
Hrčak ID:
99977
URI
Publication date:
3.12.2003.
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