The Meaning of Marriage: Facing the Complexities of Commitment with the Wisdom of God

Timothy and Kathy Keller’s The Meaning of Marriage is situated within a cultural context marked by deep skepticism of traditional institutions. Written in the early 21st century and largely shaped by Western, urban, and postmodern sensibilities, the book acknowledges the shifting social currents that have redefined how individuals, especially younger generations, perceive marriage. Noting that contemporary culture is increasingly wary of long-term commitment, the Kellers directly engage with the suspicion that marriage is restrictive, unnecessary, or outdated. They assert that romantic idealism, economic anxiety, and hyper-individualism have led many to either delay marriage indefinitely or reject it entirely. In this cultural context, marriage is often viewed not as a covenant or lifelong promise but as a conditional contract—one that should only last as long as both partners find it fulfilling. The Kellers push back against this understanding by presenting marriage as a divine institution rooted in covenantal commitment, calling on readers to reimagine marriage not as a means to self-actualization, but as a transformative relationship grounded in mutual service, sacrifice, and spiritual growth.

The book is reacting against the influence of expressive individualism—the belief that identity and fulfillment are found by looking inward and prioritizing personal desires.