Reformed Presbyterian Minutes of Synod 1995 - Rparchives.org

REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1855.1 Introduction. When the parties to the marriage are before theminister, he may say,"We are gathered in the presence of God and of thiscompany, to join this man and this woman in holy estate ofmarriage.Marriage was instituted by God from the beginning. God said, "It is notgood that the man should be alone; I will make him a help suitable for him"(Gen. 2:18). God then created woman of Man's own substance andbrought her to him.The Lord Jesus Christ honored marriage by his presence at the wedding inCana of Galilee, and confirmed it as a divine ordinance and a union not to besevered, when he declared, "What therefore God has joined together, let noman put asunder" (Mt. 19:6).Furthermore, the apostle Paul set forth the sacred nature of the marriagerelationship when, in Eph. 5:22-33, he compared it by analogy to thespiritual union between Christ and his church.The purpose of marriage, then, is the enrichment of the lives of thoseentering into this relationship, the nurture of a new generation, and theextension of Christ's church, to the glory of our covenant God."5.2 Prayer. The minister should then pray for a blessing upon the unionabout to be effected.5.3 The reading of Scripture. Appropriate passages of Scripture may beread, such as Gen. 2:18-24; Mt. 19:3-6; Pr. 31; Is. 32:2; 1 Jn. 4:12-21;Eph. 5; and 1 Cor. 13.5.4 Charge to the couple. The minister may then give a brief address,out of the Scripture, showing the institution, use, and goals of marriage. Heshould exhort them to study the word of God that they may learn to live byfaith and be content in the midst of all the cares and challenges of marriage.He should also urge them to pray with and for one another, to watch overand encourage one another to love and good works, and to live together asthe heirs of the grace of life.5.5 Giving away of the bride. The minister may then ask "Who gives thiswoman to be married to this man?" and her parent(s) will answer, "l/wedo."5.6 Exchange of vows.(a) The minister shall next ask the parties to join their right hands and giveassent to the marriage vows.