The recent Supreme Court ruling sparked much debate on the subject of marriage. In fact, the outrage that has surfaced on both sides of the issue illustrates the importance that marriage has for all of us. For many, it is a dream they hope is fulfilled. Perhaps it is “built” within us the desire to love and be loved. For many, they may be surprised that marriage was originally instituted by God Himself in the 2nd chapter of Genesis. In fact, there are 3 things that you might not know about this institution we call Marriage.

#1 — God performed the first marriage.

On Day 6 of creation, God reached down and created man out of the dust of the ground and breathed into his nose the breath of life, and man became a living soul. (Gen. 2:7). In Genesis 2:18 God said that it is not good for man to be alone and from the rib of man God created woman. He brought both Adam and Eve together in the Garden of Eden and in Gen. 2:24 it reads, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.”

#2 — God defined the Marriage Relationship

Some may be surprised to know that marriage is not a cultural institution created by mankind. Though marriage has been “hijacked” by different cultures and governments, ultimately, marriage was originally defined by God. Throughout Scripture not only is the union of one man and one woman for a lifetime given, but even the roles of each. Found in Ephesians 5 we see the responsibilities of both the husband and wife. When marriage is followed by the definition God has set forth then it can become one of the most God-honoring activities we can take part in. When done outside of His boundaries we not only dishonor God, but we put our own lives (and others) in ruin.

#3 — Marriage was instituted even before Sin entered the world.

I think it is important to note that the institution of marriage was given even before sin entered into the world, making this one of the most pure institutions given to the world. Marriage is not a reaction to the sin of the world, but part of God’s original plan for mankind. Though the culture and popular media often make fun of marriage and though governments try to “redefine” this God-given union, know that this institution was given for mankind’s enjoyment, but it was ultimately given to glorify God.