What is the significance of the marriage covenant?

The marriage covenant, as described in Genesis 2, is intended to be a binding agreement between a man and a woman, meant to last until death. It signifies not only the unity and companionship of the couple but also reflects the faithful and sacrificial love of Christ for His church. In Ephesians 5:31, the leaving of one's parents and joining to one's spouse symbolizes the profound unity that God desires for married couples. This covenant mirrors God's own covenant with His people, and therefore, understanding its significance calls for a commitment to honor and uphold the integrity and sanctity of marriage, paralleling God's unwavering relationship with His elect.