Christian Doctrine on Angels and Marriage: An Examination of Biblical Teachings

The relationship between Christians and their beliefs about angels and marriage is an intriguing aspect of the Christian faith. Central to these beliefs are the teachings found in scriptures such as Luke 20:35, Matthew 22:30, and Mark 12:25. These texts provide clarity and insight into the Christian understanding of the afterlife and the state of the resurrected. This article delves deeper into these biblical teachings and their implications for both angels and humans.

The State of Resurrected Angels and the Resurrected in Heaven

One of the key scriptures that highlight the state of resurrected beings is Luke 20:35. This passage states, 'But those who are considered worthy to attain to that age and to the resurrection from the dead, neither marry nor are given in marriage.' This verse clearly indicates that those who will be resurrected do not get married. This concept aligns with the idea that the focus of the resurrected is not on earthly matters but rather on the eternal duties awaiting them.

The Bride of Christ and Her Role

The imagery of the 'Bride of Christ' is another significant concept in Christian teachings. Revelation 19:7-9 describes the heavenly bride as the church, presenting to Jesus a crown of gold made of fine linen, which is the righteousness of the saints (Revelation 19:7-9). In this context, the term 'bride of Christ' does not imply a marital union but a spiritual and symbolic one. The church is united with Christ in a covenantal relationship that involves ruling with him over the earth.

The Resurrected and Their Role as Kings and Priests

Another important scripture, Revelation 20:4-6, emphasizes the role of the resurrected in ruling as kings and priests over the earthly subjects. It states, 'I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what they had done. Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death.

The Chosen Ones and the 144,000

Furthermore, the Bible also speaks about the 'chosen ones' and the 144,000. Revelation 7:4 mentions the 144,000, a specific number of Israelites who will be sealed and saved in the end times. This group is described as being 'without blemish, dressed in white robes, and follow the Lamb wherever he goes.' These chosen ones are a subset of those who will be resurrected and are considered particularly holy and worthy.

The Biblically Informed View of Marriage

The Christian view of marriage is complex and multifaceted. While the Bible allows for marriage and family life in this present age, it also acknowledges the possibility of an eternal state where such earthly aspects are transcended. The doctrine that those resurrected do not get married points to a higher spiritual purpose beyond the confines of human relationships. This is particularly evident in the context of the 'Bride of Christ' and the role of the chosen ones.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Christian understanding of angels and marriage is rooted in a deep reverence for scriptural teachings that highlight the eternal and spiritual nature of the afterlife. The resurrected, including angels, are not bound by the same earthly constraints as those who live on in this present age. While marriage remains a beautiful and sacred institution in the present context, the concept of the resurrected living forever in a state where marriage is not relevant underscores the eternal glory and purpose of those who will be part of the heavenly host.