Covenant vs. Contract: How Does God Want Us to View Marriage?

In a world governed by agreements, “covenant” and “contract” are often used interchangeably. However, their meanings and implications are vastly different to God, and should be to us as believers. Understanding the distinction between a covenant and a contract illuminates the depth of God’s relationship with His people and enriches the beauty of marriage as a divine institution.

What is a contract?

A contract is a mutual agreement between two parties, often conditional and transactional. It is a legal bond that ensures each party fulfils specific obligations. If one party fails, the contract can be voided. Contracts protect individual interests and are built on a foundation of mutual benefit.

What is a covenant?

A covenant, however, is far more profound. Biblically, a covenant is a sacred, binding promise, often initiated by God, rooted in love, and designed to establish a deep and enduring relationship. Unlike contracts, covenants are unconditional and eternal. They reflect God’s unchanging character and commitment to His people.

For example, God’s covenant with Abraham in Genesis 17:7 NIV states, “I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants.” Here, God unilaterally commits to His promise, independent of human actions or failures.

What do covenants tell us about God’s character?

The Bible is littered with God’s covenants that demonstrate God’s redemptive plan for humanity. Each covenant—with Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, and ultimately through Jesus Christ—shows God’s faithfulness and grace.

The New Covenant, established through Jesus’ death and resurrection, exemplifies the depth of God’s love for us and the lengths He will go to fulfil His promises to us. 

Over numerous centuries, God confirms the surety of this covenant in passages such as Jeremiah 31:33 NIV: “This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the Lord. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.” 

This covenant is not based on human effort but on God’s unmerited favour. Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV reinforces this: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works so that no one can boast.”

This divine relationship underscores that a covenant is not conditional like a contract but rooted in steadfast love and unyielding faithfulness. Even when humanity falters, God remains faithful, fulfilling His promises and drawing His people into eternal fellowship.

How should I view my marriage?

Marriage is a covenant that mirrors God’s relationship with His people. Scriptures such as Malachi 2:14 NIV show us this when it states, “...the LORD is the witness between you and the wife of your youth. You have been unfaithful to her, though she is your partner, the wife of your marriage covenant.”

Unlike a contractual agreement, which may end when terms are unmet, marriage is a lifelong, sacred bond established before God. Ephesians 5:25-33 directly parallels marriage and Christ’s covenantal love for the Church. This sacrificial love exemplifies the covenant’s selfless, enduring nature.

In marriage, the covenantal commitment involves unconditional love, mutual respect, and perseverance through challenges. It is not based on performance or convenience but on a vow to honour God and one another. Jesus affirms this in Matthew 19:6 NIV, saying, “So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, let no one separate.”

How do I live this out on a daily basis?

Understanding the covenantal nature of God’s relationship with Christians transforms how we view our commitments and relationships. As recipients of God’s unwavering love, we must reflect that love in our marriages and interactions with others through:

1. Grace and Forgiveness: Just as God extends grace to us, we should practice forgiveness and patience in our relationships. Colossians 3:13 NIV says, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

2. Unconditional Commitment: A covenant calls us to remain faithful for the duration of the covenant, even when circumstances are difficult. This mirrors God’s own faithfulness and long-suffering nature towards us. Though it may not always be easy, God invites us to ask Him for help to endure (Hebrews 4:16, Philippians 4:6-7, 1 John 5:14). 

3. Selfless Love: Covenantal love seeks the best for the other person. Philippians 2:3-4 NIV encourages us to “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”

The distinction between a covenant and a contract lies at the heart of God’s relationship with His people and the divine design for marriage. While contracts are transactional and conditional, covenants are rooted in eternal love, faithfulness, and grace. By embracing this covenantal perspective, we deepen our understanding of God’s promises and enrich the beauty of marriage as a reflection of His unchanging love. As we live out these principles, our lives and relationships may reflect the ultimate covenant-maker's glory.

What’s next?

Take a moment for self-reflection. How have you viewed marriage in the past? In what areas do you want to grow and mature in your marriage? 

Even with prayer and commitment to viewing marriage as a covenant, you might still need support in facing the trials that come with the unique circumstances of your marriage. Odigia Global is committed to doing just that. Book a session today and let us walk with you on this journey to create the thriving, meaningful connections you deserve—because every relationship you nurture brings you closer to the life you were meant to live.

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David Grant is a founder of Odigia Global, a Personal Development Organisation committed to helping you flourish in all your relationships through guidance that works. As a Christian for over 45 years, and a husband, father and spiritual leader for almost half of his life, he is passionate about equipping, empowering and engaging you with the tools to see transformation in every area of your life. Learn more about David and Odigia here.