CUSTOMS AND THE BIBLE

Bride-Price and Dowry: In some lands the groom's family is expected to give money to the bride's family (bride-price).  In others, the bride's family gives money to the groom's (dowry).  There may be nothing wrong with these customs as long as they are legal. (Romans 13:1) However, in either case, the receiving family should avoid greedily demanding more money or goods than is reasonable.  (Proverbs 20:21; 1 Corinthians  6:10)  Further, the paying of the bride-price should never be construed to imply that a wife is simply purchase property; nor should a husband feel that his only responsibility toward his wife and his in-laws is a financial one. 

Polygamy: Some cultures allow a man to take more than one wife.  In such an atmosphere, the man may became an overlord rather than a husband and father.  Furthermore, polygamous marriage often fosters competition among wives.  For Christians, the Bible allows only  singleness or monogamy. -1 Corinthians 7:2.   Note: In the new testament, We are only suppose to have one spouse, period. Those cultures are going against God's statutes/wishes. 

Trial Marriage:  Many couples claim that living together before marriage will help them test out their compatibility.  Yet, trial marriage does not test one of the most crucial  elements of marriage-commitment.  No arrangement other than marriage offers the same degree of protection and security to all parties -including any children that may result from the union.  In the eyes of Jehovah God, living together consensually without the benefit of marriage is fornication. -1 Corinthians 6:18; Hebrews 13:4.

Next time: TWO KEYS TO A LASTING MARRIAGE, CHAPTER THREE

From the book:  From the book: THE SECRET OF FAMILY HAPPINESS, 1996