The Marriage of Convenience

William Quiller Orchardson depicted a wife sharing a dinner table with her husband, which is both tragic and humorous (The Marriage of Convenience, 1883). She is young and beautiful, he is old and rich. Apart from their bed and surname, they have nothing in common. We may surmise that he married her for the company or as eye-candy; she married him for his status and wealth. The artist suggests there is little to talk about; conversation appears stunted and awkward, and the husband has his glass filled, in whose quaffing he is likely to find more cheer. Wealthy Victorians were known for seeking ‘good marriages’, i.e. marrying one richer than oneself. The contemporary term ‘gold digger’ indicates that the concept did not die along with the old queen in 1901.

The Bible talks of the ‘marriage’ between Christ and his bride, the Church, in the book of Revelation. That is why we believers guard the definition of marriage so closely- it is not just a contractual arrangement between two parties, but a picture of the Creator entering into covenant relationship with the creature. The picture also shows why non-Christians will not be admitted to heaven. Sure, they’d appreciate the celebrations, pomp and glory of the heavenly realm. But what of the Groom they have never loved nor cherished? And what would they talk about- the many times He answered their prayers? The way He stood with them in times of difficulty? The glories of unconditional election? Unbelievers would have nothing to say. They would enjoy the palace, but not the King; they’d appreciate the gifts but not the Giver. The marriage supper of the Lamb will be the greatest love-match ever made. He the magnificent Prince, handsome and comely, she the filthy ragamuffin rescued from the slums, cleaned up and radiant in her new apparel.

 

The bride eyes not her garment,

But her dear Bridegroom’s face;

I will not gaze at glory

But on my King of grace.

Not at the crown He giveth

But on His pierced hand;

The Lamb is all the glory

Of Emmanuel’s land.

 

O I am my Beloved’s

And my Beloved is mine!

He brings a poor vile sinner

Into His house of wine

I stand upon His merit -

I know no other stand,

Not e’en where glory dwelleth

In Emmanuel’s land.

 

Samuel Rutherford