In public policy, governments have recognized the important role and unique needs of marriage and family, and have maintained a distinction and afforded differential treatment to marriage and family, as compared to other forms of cohabitation.

As marriage entails a covenantal commitment, it promotes social stability and good order. It promotes a depth of relationship which cohabition outside of marriage cannot provide. By emphasizing sexual fidelity, it operates as a force for the social regulation of sexuality.

In addition to the moral obligation of troth and fidelity, marriage also involves financial obligations. It entails sharing assets and makes the spouses financially interdependent. Benefits have been granted to those in a married relationship not only because of the stability it affords to society, but also because of the level and nature of the obligations entailed by the relationship. Governments have been reluctant to extend the benefits to other forms of relationships which do not entail the same burdens and obligations. The unique characteristics of marriage as listed above make it the most desirable basis and context for the raising and nurturing of children.

It is in the interest of society and of government to promote healthy family structures through a recognition of their distinctive nature and role in society. Though there may be other forms of relationships in society, such as friendships, which fulfil some of the same functions as marriage and family, the distinctiveness of marriage and family must be retained so that their specific needs may be effectively addressed by government. Government policy should protect and promote, not undermine, marriage and family.

(From the Evangelical Fellowship of Canda statement on Marriage and Family – used with permission.)

The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada is related to the Australian Evangelical Alliance and on their web-site they have a lot of resources related to strengthening marriage and family as part of their ‘Marriage on the Rock’ initiative. If you click here you will be leaving our site to go to theirs but it could be a worthwhile visit!