God instituted marriage in order for spouses to: (1) bring children into the world and educate them in the truths of God’s kingdom, and (2) promote and deepen their love for one another.

1. God instituted marriage in order for spouses to bring children into the world and to educate them in the truths of God’s kingdom.

The greatest gift of married love is children. We learn from nature and Sacred Scripture that begetting children is one of the purposes as well as a blessing of marriage. God blessed Adam and Eve and said: “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it” (Genesis 1:28). In His love for us, God gives us life, and the care we need as children, through our parents.

2. God instituted marriage in order for spouses to promote and deepen their love for one another.

God’s holy purpose in instituting marriage is clear. He said: “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him” (Genesis 2:18). The love of spouses should be a source of great strength and comfort to them in the important responsibility of raising their children according to God’s will.