Vows made to the opposite sex with mutual intent at becoming one in order to have children and raise a family is a marriage.
In modern days a priest officiates a marriage only to act as a witness because too many people were telling each other they committed to marriage, had sex, then the next day lied to their partner and said they never married them. Witnesses became a requirement to root out this lustful fraud.
Governmental certificates are merely for tax and financial records, as well as proof for legal reasons.
The metaphysical aspect of marriage is sealed without government.
Some Protestant churches may indeed confuse this matter and believe marriage is merely a legal agreement with the state. This is an unfortunate misunderstanding that as you indicate places far too much authority in government hands.
Seriously know many couples that won’t get married because it’s more financially beneficial to stay unmarried.
This is not good.
Sounds like they are living in sin.
Vows made to the opposite sex with mutual intent at becoming one in order to have children and raise a family is a marriage.
In modern days a priest officiates a marriage only to act as a witness because too many people were telling each other they committed to marriage, had sex, then the next day lied to their partner and said they never married them. Witnesses became a requirement to root out this lustful fraud.
Governmental certificates are merely for tax and financial records, as well as proof for legal reasons.
The metaphysical aspect of marriage is sealed without government.
Some Protestant churches may indeed confuse this matter and believe marriage is merely a legal agreement with the state. This is an unfortunate misunderstanding that as you indicate places far too much authority in government hands.