This message will specifically address marriage relationships from a biblical point of view. How does our faith work its way into our everyday decisions in marriage?
Genesis 1:27-28; 2:20-25; Ephesians 5:21-33
Sermon Outline
“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, ‘Be fruitful and increase in number.’” (Genesis 1:27-28a)
The Genesis of Marriage
- God makes human beings (Genesis 1:27-28)
- God gives the gift of marriage (Genesis 2:20-25)
- God gives purpose to marriage: reflect God, continuance of life, companionship in love (Genesis 1:27-28; 2:24)
The Way of Marriage
- Marriage as a community matter (Ephesians 5:21)
- Marriage marked by mutual submission (Ephesians 5:21)
- The way of a wife and the way of a husband (Ephesians 5:22-33)
- Marriage as a reflection of a greater mystery (Ephesians 5:32)
Humility in Faith-Shaped Marriage
- Singleness and marriage
- Conflict and divorce
- Marriage to a non-believing spouse
- Abuse and other extreme situations
Practices for Faith-Shaped Marriage
- Understand marriage as a loving covenant before God in which we become one
- Make room for the other
- Cultivate your marriage
- Learn how to talk and listen well
- Guard your marriage
- Pick your battles and fight fair
- Get help when you need it
- Pray for your marriage
- Keep God at the center
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
- What are the most significant relationships in your life and why? How has that changed at different seasons of your life?
- This week we conclude our sermon series entitled “Everyday Ordinary Faith” by exploring the topic of faith-shaped marriage. Whether on your own or with others, begin your study in prayer, asking God to speak to you through His word.
- Based on what you read in Genesis 1:27-30 and 2:20-25, what would you say is God’s intention for marriage from the beginning of creation?
- Read the story of sin’s entry into the world In Genesis 3:1-20. How did sin affect relationships generally, but specifically the marriage relationship between Adam and Eve?
- Ephesians 5:21-33 is one of the most in-depth teachings in Scripture about the marriage relationship. Paul writes these words within a series of instructions known as “household codes,” which commonly addressed the basic structure of relationships within households in the Greco-Roman world. How would you say verse 21 sets the tone for the instruction that is to come?
- In verses 22-24, Paul outlines the way a wife should relate to her husband. What are some words that describe that way of relating?
- Verses 25-33 describe the way a husband should relate to his wife. What words would you use to describe the way a husband should relate to his wife?
- There is a deeper, theological meaning Paul gives to marriage in Ephesians 5:32. What is it and what do you think this means for marriage?
- Now read Matthew 6:33, which has been a reference point throughout this series. How do you think marriage relates to seeking first God’s kingdom and righteousness?
- What is one thing you sense God calling to your attention personally through this week’s study? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and then pray about what you shared. If you are on your own, write it down, pray about it, and consider sharing your thoughts with someone this week.
DIG DEEPER
Exploring Faith:
- Why do you think marriage might matter to God?
- How have different understandings of “religion” or “faith” impacted relationships you have been part of?
Growing in Faith
- If you are married, how might you take steps to be more intentional in approaching your marriage from a faith-shaped perspective? Try to add one of the relational practices Matt mentioned to your weekly routine, starting this week.
- If you are not married, what might it look like for you to pray for and encourage those you know who are married?
Centered in Faith
- As you pour into the lives of others for Christ, how might you model and encourage them in their marriage this year?
- Is there one married couple you will specifically pray for this year?