The ministers of Christ are not commanded by God's law either to vow the estate of single life or to abstain from marriage; therefore it is lawful for them, as for all other Christians, to marry at their own discretion, as they shall judge the same to serve best to godliness.

*     *     *

Since the Roman Catholic Church taught that the clergy could not marry, the Anglican Church, and later John Wesley, among many others, found that it was necessary to remind people that the Holy Scripture does not prohibit ministers from marrying and having children. This Article was written to affirm this, while also asserting the necessity of wisdom in this life choice. As with all those who desire to have God's will done in and through their lives, a minister must be intentional about choosing a spouse who will truly be their partner in the pursuit of holiness and ministry. 

Choosing a spouse is and will always be one of the most important decisions people make in their lives, for its consequences have a multi-generational impact. Furthermore, according to the Apostle Paul, marriage holds a sacred place as a representation of God’s love and ways. This is first seen in the relationship between spouses, and then in the relationships they have with their children. As such, the Apostle Paul asserts that it is better to remain unmarried, as he himself was at the time of his missionary work, than to violate these holy responsibilities to one’s family in the pursuit of the Ministry.

*     *     *

Reflect on the following Biblical texts. What are your thoughts on the way they reveal this doctrine to us? Discuss your answers with your pastor/group leader.

Genesis 2:4-25 (cf. Genesis 1:26-31 / Matthew 19:1-12 / Ephesians 5:22-6:4) 

1 Corinthians 7:1-40 (cf. 1 Corinthians 9:1-14 / 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1) 

1 Timothy 3:1-16 (cf. Titus 1:5-16)

*     *     *

Use the following questions to summarize what you have learned about this Article of Faith. Discuss your answers with your pastor/group leader. 

Why was it important to reject the obligation of celibacy for those called to the Ministry? 

What are the advantages of celibacy, which are therefore the disadvantages of marriage, according to the Holy Scriptures? 

What are the advantages of marriage, which are therefore the disadvantages of celibacy, according to the Holy Scriptures? 

In what ways do the advantages and disadvantages of celibacy and marriage uniquely affect those called to the Ministry?

How does this doctrine affect the practice of our faith? 

Notes: