One Flesh

- God saw and knew the man's need. He made Eve to become Adam's companion and helper.
- God gave marriage as a gift to Adam and Eve. They were created perfect for each other.
- "The word for helper in Hebrew does not mean 'servant' or 'slave.' The word is most commonly used in the Bible in reference to God as our helper, often in a military sense. A helper in this sense would be someone--superior or equal-- who comes alongside to support another in a situation that can't be handled alone. According to this passage, man needed help--a partner every bit his equal whose strengths would compensate for his weaknesses." (commentary from the book, "Building a Marriage That Really Works")
- At the beginning of the human race, God designed and defined marriage: one man + one woman = one flesh.
- The husband is to leave his parents and to be united to his wife. Leave and cleave! Not only physically but also psychologically. However, it doesn't mean that we no longer honor our parents or that we quit listening to their advice/considering their wisdom.
- One flesh = a beautiful, intimate, committed union of the couple's hearts and lives. The goal in marriage should be oneness for the glory of God.
- "United"/ "One"--demonstrates the idea of loyalty, devotion, commitment, and permanence. Marriage is a picture of the relationship between Jesus and His church, the bride of Christ. Marriages are intended to be living testimonies of Christ's inseparable union with believers.
- "It is interesting that the word used for 'one' in Genesis 2:24...is the same Hebrew word used of God Himself in Deuteronomy 6:4 where we read, 'Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.'...The Scriptures reveal God to be Father, Son, and Spirit, yet one...The members of the Trinity do have varying roles, yet unity...Marital unity is not the kind of unity that eradicates personality. Rather, it is the kind of unity that frees you to express your own diversity, yet experience complete oneness with your mate. You are free to be all that God intends you to be, while experiencing all that God intended when He united us in marriage." (from the book, The Marriage You've Always Wanted by Gary Chapman)
- "There is no more lovely, friendly, and charming relationship, communion, or company than a good marriage." ~Martin Luther
- "What greater thing is there for human souls, than to feel that they are joined for life...to be with each other in silent unspeakable memories." ~George Eliot