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Excerpt from the Mennonite Brethren Confession of Faith
Marriage, Singleness, and Family

We believe that marriage and the family are instituted by God. The church blesses both marriage and singleness and encourages families to grow in love. . . . Singleness is honored equally with marriage, sometimes even preferred. The church is to bless, respect and fully include those who are single. Those who remain single may find unique opportunities to advance the kingdom of God. God calls all people, single and married, to live sexually pure lives.  – from the Mennonite Brethren Confession of Faith (1999), article 11

The creation narrative teaches that humans are created with the need for intimacy. The Genesis text appears to assume that the common pattern for finding intimacy will be within the marriage covenant. Although it is not specifically stated, the Old Testament narratives seem to assume that singleness is not a desirable state.

Within the Old Testament, however, we do find the roots of a theology of service that recognizes the unique contributions of single persons. Yahweh commands that Jeremiah the prophet never marry as a sign to Israel (Jeremiah 16:1-4). The marriages of Ezekiel and Hosea face interruptions related to their mission.

The story of Ruth results in marriage, but her relationship as a single person with the widow Naomi is characterized by covenant loyalty which is often cited as an example for a couple about to be married. Ruth pledges to go with Naomi, to join her people, and to worship her God. She declares an inseparable love for Naomi.

In the New Testament, both Jesus and Paul minister as single persons. Although Scripture is silent regarding Jesus’ celibacy, Paul encourages the church at Corinth to consider celibacy as a gift from God (1 Corinthians 7:1-9,25-35). The benefits of singleness include freedom from distractions that a spouse and children create. Single persons in difficult times are not preoccupied with the security of their family members. Paul considers singleness to be superior to marriage, at least for those who have the gift of celibacy.

The church is called to recognize the honor due, even preference for, the single state. The church must take care not to exclude single persons from church life or from ministry. Special concern must be given to include those who live as singles.

The need for intimacy presents unique challenges to the single person. Sexual chastity is the biblical mandate for single persons (1 Corinthians 7:8-9). The need for partnership recognized in the creation story, however, is not absent in the celibate person. Healthy and pure relationships for single persons are necessary for living fulfilling lives in society.

 – from the Mennonite Brethren Confession of Faith Commentary and Pastoral Application (Kindred Productions, 2000)

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Last modified July 10, 2001.

© 2001 Mennonite Brethren Herald.
Published by the Canadian Conference of MB Churches.
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