We
live in an age in which the value of marriage is questioned.
It is even spurned as the "cage of convention", from which all
would do well to be free. While this might be the view of those "who
knom, not God", it conflicts with Scripture from Genesis
to Revelation. Marriage is a divine ordinance and the oaths undertaken
are for the whole period of our life (Gen. 2:24). Therefore marriage
should not be entered into hastily or unadvisedly. Few things
can influence one's life as much as one's partner in marriage.
A successful and happy pilgrimage is largely bound up with a
wise choice of husband or wife.
The basic requisite is that one's partner be a brother or
sister of Christ -- marriage must be "only in the Lord" (1
Cor. 7:39). But here care needs to be exercised, for even
among the professing sons of Abraham and daughters of Sarah
there are those whose hearts have a greater affinity with
the world than with the Lord.
The following paragraph sounds a solemn warning:
"There
remains to be considered another growing evil. This is the
violation of direct example and command which has brought
disappointment, unhappiness and despair into the lives of
many. This is companionship, betrothal, and marriage by
believers with unbelievers. Many good brethren and sisters
have wrecked their course to the kingdom upon this shoal,
and, like the rich man in Hades, would have it testified
lest their brethren should fall into the same error and
terror. Strict regard to the requirements of God will prevent
both. Too much confidence in promises made by the unbelieving
companion; too much hope in the assurance of later acceptance
of the truth, have caused many to become unequally yoked
in marriage. The result, instead of joy, has been abiding
regret that the experience of other brethren, and the examples
of Israel, did not serve as a loud warning against the intention
to enter life's union under unequal and unholy conditions.
Therefore, it is necessary to raise the alarm to those who
are in this manner consorting with unbelievers. Necessary
too, that brethren who have been entrusted with the care
of the ecclesias, like faithful stewards, should 'cry aloud
and spare not' in exhibiting this violation of Divine requirement.
'Only in the Lord' is the essential condition for companionship
and marriage of those in the Divine family. From this condition
there is no escape, and although violation of it may bring,
and has brought, its penalties, it behoves those 'who watch
for their souls as those who shall give account' to make
it clear by precept and example that God has declared our
duty even in this matter."
("For
Christ's Sake" by Bro. C. P. Wauchope - pages 10- 11).
AN
IMMORAL SOCIETY
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