01.08. Matrimony (95-97)

95. What is Matrimony according to the Church of Rome?

96. Is Matrimony presented as a Sacrament in the New Testament?

97. What does the Free Presbyterian Church believe concerning marriage?

95. What is Matrimony according to the Church of Rome?

Rome teaches that matrimony is a Sacrament appointed by Christ; that it confers grace; that celibacy is a state superior to marriage, and that the Church’s authority to alter the Levitical law regarding the impediments to marriage, either cancelling or adding to those laid down in Scripture; that the Church has a right to prohibit the solemnisation of marriage in certain seasons; that matrimonial causes belong exclusively to ecclesiastical judges and that marriage is invalid unless contracted in the presence of the parish priest or some other priest authorised by him.

96. Is Matrimony presented as a Sacrament in the New Testament?

Matrimony is never presented in the New Testament as a Sacrament, but it is declared to be honourable in all. (Hebrews 13:4) 97. What does the Free Presbyterian Church believe concerning marriage?

We believe that true Christian marriage takes place only in the Lord and those who are Christians should not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. They should marry their own desiring to live true to the mind of Christ, supported and instructed by the faith and love of Christian fellowship, and should, therefore, commit themselves to the solemn intention of making Christ the Head of their home and the Head of all their practices.