Episode 7 – Marriage in the New Testament

• (00:00) - Introduction

We begin by examining the state of marriage during Jesus’ time, both in Roman society and among the Jews in Judea. Against this backdrop of civil contracts, permissive divorce, and widespread moral disorder, Jesus’ words are radical: “From the beginning it was not so.” (Matthew 19:8)

We then dive into the heart of the Church’s teaching: marriage is no longer merely natural—it has been raised to a sacrament. Drawing from Scripture, Tradition, and the Catechism, we discuss:

• Why natural marriages, though real and valid, cannot provide sanctifying grace
• How Christ’s sacramental institution of marriage offers the supernatural strength needed to fulfill the covenantal call
• Why the grace of marriage must be called upon daily, and what it does not automatically do (eliminate suffering, guarantee happiness, or force love)
• What sets sacramental marriage apart from both the marriages of fallen man and even that of Adam and Eve

This talk concludes with a stirring reflection on the cross-shaped nature of Christian marriage. The sacrament gives grace, but it requires our “yes”—not once at the altar, but every day.

🛤️ Next up: If the sacrament does not exempt us from the Cross, what does it mean to live a cruciform marriage?

This episode sets the stage for the final talk in the series: The Church—Marital Strength, where covenantal love is purified and perfected.