In instituting the union of marriage, the Lord had definite objectives in mind. They include the following: * The need for ‘companionship’, ‘helping hand’, accomplishment’ and the benefits derived from them (Gen. 2:18).

From the very beginning, the principle of “two are better than one” was at work (cons. Eccl. 4:9-10). * The need for reproducing, increasing and multiplying (Gen. 1:27-28 e.g. verses 21-22). *

Apart from the above original purpose of marriage, the need of the present to avoid fornication and adultery makes marriage mandatory for those who are susceptible to “burning” (1 Cor. 7:1-2, 9). It is only such things that fall under these objectives that those married or wishing to marry should pursue.