A Christian wedding is centered around God and incorporates biblical principles, while a non-Christian wedding may not have any religious elements at all. Here are some key ways a Christian wedding can be distinct:
The Ceremony’s Focus
The ceremony is focused on glorifying God, not just the couple. Bible verses and Christian traditions remind attendees that God brought the couple together (Genesis 2:18, Proverbs 18:22). Vows reference God’s design for marriage (Ephesians 5:22-33).
Premarital Preparation
Many churches require premarital counseling to ensure the couple understands God’s purposes for marriage. Topics often include conflict resolution, family backgrounds, finances, intimacy, and faith. This equips the couple for a Christ-centered marriage.
Beliefs About Marriage
Christians believe marriage is sacred and designed by God to be permanent and monogamous (Matthew 19:4-6). The wedding celebrates reserving sexual intimacy for marriage (Hebrews 13:4). Divorce is discouraged except for infidelity (Matthew 19:9).
Location and Officiant
Christian weddings are often held in a church to honor God. The officiant is usually a pastor who ensures the spiritual aspects are included. Secular locations and officiants may be used, but the ceremony retains its Christian focus.
Music and Readings
Religious music and readings communicate biblical principles about marriage. Popular passages include 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 on love and Ruth 1:16-17 on commitment. Christian songs may replace or supplement secular love songs.
Attire
Clothing is modest out of reverence for God. Some practices include covering shoulders and avoiding low necklines and short hemlines. The focus is inward beauty, not outward appearance (1 Timothy 2:9-10, 1 Peter 3:3-4).
Uncompromised Vows
Christian vows reflect biblical roles for husbands and wives, such as sacrificial leadership for husbands (Ephesians 5:25) and respectful submission for wives (Ephesians 5:22). Couples uphold God’s standards without accommodation.
Purity and Holiness
Christians keep the wedding celebration pure by avoiding drunkenness (Ephesians 5:18) and immodest dancing. The reception honors God in word and deed (Colossians 3:17). Some save intimacy for the wedding night.
Unity Rituals
Many Christian weddings include unity rituals like candle lighting or communion to symbolize the spiritual joining of husband and wife into “one flesh” by God (Genesis 2:24, Mark 10:8). Sand ceremonies or wood-splitting may also be used.
Spiritual Journey
The wedding marks the start of a lifetime spiritual journey as a married couple. Christians are encouraged to keep God at the center by praying together, attending church, and seeking biblical guidance for marriage.
God-Honoring Marriage
Christian weddings celebrate the couple’s faith in Christ and intention to honor God in their relationship. All aspects point to biblical purposes and principles for marriage.
Invitation to Salvation
Including Gospel truths provides opportunities to explain the Christian faith. Some ceremonies include invitations to accept Christ. For believers, their vows are a testimony of faith.
Photos and Videos
Capturing memories is appropriate but caution is used to avoid excess vanity (Ecclesiastes 7:16, 1 John 2:15-17). Immodest poses are avoided. Focus is on the sacred covenant, not lavish details.
Priorities in Planning
Couples avoid overspending and stress by simplifying plans. Energy goes toward the marriage, not just one day. Lavish receptions are downplayed to keep Christ preeminent.
Wedding Party Roles
Bridal parties uphold Christian standards in attire, conduct and planned activities. Responsibilities aim to support the couple’s faith, not detract. No roles conflicting with biblical values are included.
God’s Blessing
Christian weddings invite the blessing and help of God for the couple through prayer, Scripture and worship. Starting marriage focused on seeking God sets the tone for reliance on Him.
Collective Worship
Singing worship songs engages attendees’ hearts Godward. Corporate prayer binds believers in petitioning God’s help for the couple. Testimonies encourage faith in Christ.
Wholesome Entertainment
Music, media and humor steer clear of the profane, staying pure and uplifting (Philippians 4:8). Edifying entertainment points people toward godliness. Moderation avoids excess.
Eternal Perspective
Despite the celebration, Christians remember marriage is temporary until heaven and eternal life with God (Matthew 22:30). This can add joy and also wisdom to wedding plans.
In summary, Christian weddings uniquely reflect Christ’s love and God’s eternal purposes for marriage. Every element aims to honor God and His Word above all. Starting marriage this way impacts all that follows.