The institution of marriage is founded on spiritual principles reflecting the relationship of Christ and the church. Though God created male and female for different complementary roles in marriage and family, both share in the same ultimate spiritual potential. Marriage is a legal contract in man’s realm and a covenant with God who is the author of marriage. The God ordained family structure parallels what He is doing to bring many sons and daughters to glory in His family. Mutual respect, humility, submission, self sacrifice and repentance toward God are important in marriage.

Donald Ward

Elder, United Church of God

Before his retirement in 2021, Dr. Donald Ward pastored churches in Texas and Louisiana, and taught at Ambassador Bible College in Cincinnati, Ohio. He has also served as chairman of the Council of Elders of the United Church of God. He holds a BS degree; a BA in theology; a MS degree; a doctor’s degree in education from East Texas State University; and has completed 18 hours of graduate theology from SMU.