8. Marriage and Family

8.1. Marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God, and the family is central to His plan of salvation and to our happiness (see Genesis 2:24; D&C 49:15–17). Only by entering into and faithfully keeping the covenant of celestial marriage can a man and a woman fulfill their divine, eternal potential (see 1 Corinthians 11:11; D&C 131:1–4).

8.2. God has commanded His children to multiply and replenish the earth (see Genesis 1:28). The sacred powers of procreation are to be employed only between a man and a woman who have been lawfully wedded as husband and wife (see Genesis 39:9; Alma 39:9). Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children. Parents are to rear their children in love and righteousness and provide for their physical and spiritual needs.

8.3. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and provide the necessities of life. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners.

8.4. The divine plan of happiness enables family relationships to continue beyond the grave. The earth was created and the gospel was revealed so that families could be formed, sealed, and exalted eternally. Through family history and temple service, we can make the ordinances and covenants of the gospel available to our ancestors (see Malachi 4:5–6).

(Adapted from “The Family: A Proclamation to the World,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2010, 129.)

Related references: Moses 1:39; Genesis 1:26–27; Exodus 20:3–17; Matthew 16:15–19; John 17:3; 1 Corinthians 6:19–20; 2 Nephi 2:22–25; Mosiah 2:41; Alma 41:10; D&C 84:20–22

Related topics: The Plan of Salvation; Commandments