Focal Passages: Exodus 20:14; 2 Samuel 11:1-5
Fairytale endings are common in popular books and movies. “And they lived happily ever after” is often repeated or implied near the conclusion of a story, especially those that end in marriage.
As a result, many people view the wedding as the focal point of marriage. But does that align with what the Bible teaches? A biblical definition of marriage is a divine, lifelong covenant between one man and one woman instituted by God.
Exodus 20:14 says “you shall not commit adultery.” Physical intimacy is reserved for one man and woman within the covenant of marriage.
When looking at 2 Samuel 11 we see the story of David and Bathsheba. In the spring when kings are away at war, David was still at home. One day he walked out onto his roof and saw a woman taking a bath. He thought she was beautiful and wanted her. So, he asked about her and was told she was married – the wife of a general. That didn’t stop David from acting in an evil manner.
David ordered Bathsheba to come over and slept with her. David tried to cover his sin and ultimately had her husband killed. It reminds me of what a pastor used to say: “Sin takes you further than you wanted to go, costs you more than you wanted to pay, and keeps you longer than you wanted to stay.”
Marriage is hard, but it is also beautiful and something that is worth fighting for. We are called to honor marriage as we honor God.