Christian Marriages and Family Flashcards
What does the bible say about marriage? Define monogamous?
Marriage should be monogamous and between a man and a woman and for life.
“But at the beginning of creation, God ‘made them male and female.’‘For this reason, a man will be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
What is the purpose of marriage in Christianity?
- To provide companionship, friendship, and support between a husband and a wife
- To enjoy a sexual relationship within marriage and raise a family.
- To make a lifelong commitment to another person, establishing a permanent and stable relationship, thereby also providing stability to society through the teachings of good moral and social behaviour.
What do the majority of Christian denominations consider marriage as?
- A sacrament- a ceremony which God is involved in.
- Vows, such as being faithful, are made between the man and the woman and also to God, demonstrating marriage as being sacred and binding.
Marriage is believed to be a ______ from God?
Marriage is believed to be a GIFT from God- it is part of God’s plan for men and women to live together as stated in the Bible.
Why is marriage beneficial in Christianity regarding children?
Marriage is believed to provide security and a stable environment for children to be raised as Christians.
What is a strong anti-marriage view from a Christian perspective?
- Although marriage is a sacrament and extremely important in Christianity, some Christians believe that God doesn’t want everyone to be married.
- Jesus himself was not married
- Some Christians believe they have a vocation from God, for example, being a monk or nun, where marriage is not a requirement.
What are non-religious attitudes to marriage?
-They do not accept marriage as a religious institution blessed by God, but they do accept marriage in a secular sense as a couple making a commitment to each other.
Define Cohabitation?
A cohabitation agreement is a contract between two people who are in a romantic relationship and live together but are not married.
Why do some couples choose to cohabit rather than marry?
- As many believe that marriage is expensive and unnecessary
- They also believe that marriage is, essentially, just a contract.
What do Christians argue against cohabitation and why do they oppose cohabitation?
- Marriage provides stability
- Marriage is the basis for family life
Marriage also involves sacred vows made in front of Gods, therefore they do not support Cohabitation as an alternative.
What is the purpose and importance of sexual relationships in Christianity?
- Sex is a gift from God
- Procreation
- Sex should only take place within marriage, as it is an important way for a man and woman to demonstrate commitment to each other.
What are alternative Christian views on sexual relationships?
- Some Christians believe that, in modern society, some ideas of the traditional Christian view of sexual relationships are outdated.
- They believe that love is more important and should be celebrated in whatever form it occurs.
- This may also allow them to accept cohabiting couples who have sexual relationships as well as homosexual couples who are in a permanent and stable relationship.
What are non-religious attitudes regarding sexual relationships?
- Humanists believe that they should be allowed only if the relationship is consensual and does not harm those involved in the relationship.
- Atheists are unlikely to have problem with sex before marriage.
What type of sexual relationships are forbidden in Christianity?
Adultery
Do non-religious people accept homosexuality? Atheists? Humanists?
Atheists: Yes!
Humanists: Yes!
What are the 5 different types of family?
- Nuclear
- Extended
- Blended
- Single-parent
- Same-sex
What is a nuclear family?
Two parents (man/woman) and their children living together
What is a blended family?
Step-families who have joined together through remarriage.
What is an extended family?
Parents, children, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins.
What is a single-parent family?
One parent and children
What is a same-sex family?
Two same-sex parents and children,
What is the purpose of family in Christianity?
- Provide the right place for a married couple to have children
- Provide stability and security for society, as children can be raised in the correct social and moral setting
- To teach children the difference between right and wrong
- To raise children as Christians and introduce them to the Christian faith
What are the roles and responsibilities of parents in Christianity?
- Most Christians believe they have a role and responsibility to get married and have children if they are able to, as this is what God intended.
- Parents have a responsibility to love, support, and care for their children and keep them safe.
- Christian parents should expose their children to Christianity and raise them in the Christian faith- for example, through getting them baptised or christened and getting them involved with the community, and teaching them religious scriptures and send them to church.
Why is family important in Christianity today?
- Family strengthens society, providing structure and support.
- Family is where people feel safest- with the people they love.
What are the roles and responsibilities of Children in Christianity?
- The Bible teaches that children should honour, obey and respect their parents.
- Children are expected to care for their parents in their old age, just as their parents once cared for them.
What social environment should Christian families be part of?
Within the family, children are introduced to Christianity- attending church and celebrating festivals as a family unit. Children are also baptised attend Sunday school and learn about Christianity.
How important are Churches in Christianity and to families?
- The Church is seen as a family that Christians belong to wherever they are in the world.
- The Christian community can provide support to the family unit when it faces problems.
What is the preferred family form in Christianity?
Most Christians prefer the traditional family unit of a nuclear family, as they feel this reflects the idea of the family first shown in the bible with Adam and Eve.
How is the Christian view of families different from today?
Today, Christians are realistic about the changes to family in society and would accept the differing kinds of family that provide a stable upbringing for children..
Why do churches support families?
- They hope that by helping children to develop an interest in Christianity, they are helping to ensure there will be a new generation of believers.
- It is a way to provide support for parents, helping them to raise their children in a stable environment and to educate their children in the Christian faith.
- It demonstrates inclusion and helps to foster a sense of community
What are features of family services?
- A welcoming atmosphere for children
- Opportunities for children and teenagers
- A talk or part of the service aimed at children
Define Rites of Passage?
Rite of passage are special events that mark key stages in a person’s life.
Why are rites of passages important?
As they enable children to become part of the Church as they grow up.
What are the four rites of passages?
- Thanksgiving service
- Baptism or Christening
- First communion
- Confirmation
What does the Thanksgiving service involve?
A service giving thanks for the birth of a baby and welcoming them into the Church