Marriage, as we know it on Earth, is not a concept that extends into the heavenly realm. The primary reason is that the earthly picture of marriage will be superseded by the reality of the heavenly experience. This means that the intimate bonds and purposes of marriage, which are necessary in our current existence, become obsolete in the perfect and complete presence of God.
Understanding the Transition
Earthly Marriage: A Temporary Institution
Marriage here on Earth is a beautiful and significant institution, but it serves specific purposes within our human experience:
- Companionship: Marriage provides a deep connection and partnership between two individuals.
- Procreation: It is a means by which families are established and the human race continues.
- Intimacy: It offers a unique expression of love and commitment.
However, these aspects of marriage are temporary and tailored for this world.
Heavenly Reality: The Perfection of Union
In heaven, the conditions and needs that make earthly marriage necessary will no longer exist:
- Perfect Union with God: The relationship with God will fulfill all the needs for love, intimacy, and connection that earthly marriage aims to address.
- No Need for Procreation: There will be no reproduction in heaven, eliminating another key purpose of earthly marriage.
- Complete Fulfillment: The experience of heaven is one of completeness and perfection, where there's no need for the limitations that earthly institutions serve.
The Fleeting Nature of Earthly Marriage
The reference states that "the marriages of this present world [are] fleeting as they are and inevitably severed when death do us part." This highlights that marriage, by its very nature, is temporal and tied to our mortal existence. Death ends the marital bond as we know it, further emphasizing its purpose as a temporary institution.
Key Differences
| Feature | Earthly Marriage | Heavenly Reality |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Companionship, procreation, intimacy | Direct communion with God; ultimate unity |
| Duration | Temporal; ends with death | Eternal |
| Relationship Focus | Union of two individuals | Union with God and all believers |
| Need | Essential for earthly existence | Not necessary in the perfected state |
Conclusion
In summary, marriage doesn't exist in heaven because it's a temporary institution designed for our earthly needs. In heaven, we will experience a complete and perfect union with God, making the purposes of earthly marriage unnecessary.
