Early on in my sermon study for Sunday, I know that it is either going to be a fairly normal prep or that I am going to be dealing with some difficult passages or subject matter. Often it is a little of both. I have begun a series, as I typically do in the spring, on marriage. This year my theme centers on "Vintage Marriage," and covers the teaching of the Lord Jesus Christ on marriage, divorce, and singleness.
I am reading two really interesting and helpful books to augment my normal study and sermon prep: This Momentary Marriage by John Piper (which I am reading on my new iPad 2!) and Divorce: Before you Say "I Don't" by Lou Priolo. The latter was given to me by our staff counselor and has some helpful insights.
Why should we teach and preach on issues such as marriage, divorce, singleness, and sex? It is simple to me: if a subject is in God's word we should study it. It is clear that the Bible speaks often about the marriage relationship and if we ignore what it says we are ignoring God's revelation.
Additionally, in light of the fact that so many of my congregation are single, I believe that it is better to know about the subject of marriage before you get married. God's word will make you wiser and will help to shape your thinking so that it conforms with God's truth.
Finally, many people have a distorted view of marriage because of their experiences and the example that has been set befor them. When we see what the designer of marriage said about marriage we can correct our view and align our expectations and behaviors with the reality of God's word.
You can watch or listen to my series on line by viewing our On-Demand Services. There is great joy in seeing our marriages reflect the glory of God and watching people grow in their commitment to the family.
Pastor, I have loved this series immensely. Also, I believe we have a serious need to address divorce. It's either endorsed by churches or ignored (primarily), and both approaches are harmful. I am glad it is being addressed. I am confident that God will use you to communicate the truth that divorced people should be loved and embraced by the local church community, and there is an individual-ministry future (even if technically limited) for each of them! However, on the flip side, divorce is typically a sin, and a serious one at that. In any case, I think a balanced and biblical view should be put forth, and maybe some practical tips for laypeople on how best to minister to divorced in our own saved community of believers. I fear most of us (myself included) don't know how to react or to serve, and so we would rather ignore these people and pretend they (or the divorce) don't exist.
Posted by: Randy Everist | 05/26/2011 at 07:02 PM
We are really getting a better understanding of the biblical instruction for marriage through this series. Thank you
Posted by: Rhonda | 05/31/2011 at 08:01 AM