Notes

It is better to be married than single.

Some Christians may agree that it is better to be married than single because you have someone to confide in and be by your side throughout all hardships. From the love they have for their partner, it is a reflection from their love for God. Marriage can last because God made men and women to compliment each other physically and emotionally. He also made them in his image, with the ability to imitate his love. For instance, it is shown that love is a permanent union between (traditionally) 2 people and marriage is sacred and to be respected in society as the most highest form of a relationship. It is also an illustration of the relationship with Christ and the church. Christ is the bridegroom and the church is the bride. In Ephesians chapter 5 verses 21-28, it can be seen that it encourages the partner to do anything for their spouse's happiness - even if it means sacrificing a few things for their love, it'll be worth it - and their love will never run out. However, the problem with this point is that because society has changed so much that people want to be more independent and not rely on other people to make them happy. It can be difficult for people to find the right one and especially when everyone's thoughts are so different, it can be hard to find someone who is willing to take care of you or reciprocate your feelings. People want more time for themselves, without worrying about satisfying someone else's needs when they don't have much time to focus on themselves. This demonstrates that not all people are ready to commit to just one thing.

Another reason why it may be better to be married is because it is the best way to start a family. Marriage is life giving and relationships often involve the idea of children and responsible parenthood should follow to be guaranteed the child will have a good upbringing. Pope John Paul II said, ‘Married life and family life is the loving way, in which most people choose to answer God’s call. In a marriage, couples give themselves fully to each other’. This teaching further emphasises the three key beliefs about Christian marriage, it is permanent, exclusive and life giving. He also highlighted the reasons why people should bring their children up in the faith, but emphasised the need to create a loving environment in which to live in. This means that the family can live in peace with having parents that deeply care about their children. It also is shown that children are a blessing from God but not every couple receives it. This is a weak point because a marriage is still a marriage and can honour God deeply without the need of having children. Also, some people may choose not to have children which doesn't affect their relationship with God at all and can still show a strong sense of faith. People may not have the time and effort to take care of children, let alone take care of themselves and children can take away from their personal lives. They need to carefully consider the responsibilities of having them. This point clearly shows that it is one's personal choice to start a family even if family is at the heart of the Christian faith.

An alternative view point is that sometimes people do not get married to focus on themselves. Some people have broad aspirations for the world and need freedom to share their thoughts. It is shown that they can enjoy yourself without having someone else. Being with someone can restrict them from chasing their dreams or pursue their own character. They can also bring them down which can take a toll on their mental health or they simply just don't agree. This world is only changing everyday and people want to be able to explore it even more. Being single can help people develop their relationship with other people - especially God. Some people want to dedicate their time for their religion and can be more meaningful than pleasing another person. This single focus can result in greater happiness for singles as they are not distracted by marital obligations and issues. Some people hate being alone and think its bad to stay single however, it is good to remember that Jesus was single and although not being married, he had many friends to comfort him. This is a strong point because nowhere does it say being single is less than normal, desirable, or incomplete. It says the exact opposite, praising single-hood. There are many important characters featured in the Bible who were single. For example, Elijah, Daniel, John the Baptist, Jeremiah, Paul (and of course Jesus). This teaches, singles should focus on what God has called them to do and that to some people, happiness and being content only comes from focusing on faith.