In Defense of Marriage

Marriage is a big topic and can be examined and studied from a multitude of perspectives. Clearly it is an important institution. It is vital for the collective well-being of a nation and the individuals who comprise that nation.  Today many loud voices compete to have the last say in what marriage is and isn’t.  They also want to promote the idea that it is unnecessary, unsustainable, outdated and even malformed and abusive.

Christians can be influenced, discouraged and even confused by these voices. But the greater danger may be the softer voices. Those that whisper temptations and half-truths which appeal to our fallen natures.

In 2 Corinthians, chapters 4 and 11, we are taught that Satan is the god of this world, that he disguises himself as an angel of light, and that he leads our minds astray by his craftiness.  In this context, let’s consider what he may be doing in the realm of marriage.  Have we become victims of deception unawares?

Read aloud Ephesians 5:22-23

²² Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. ²³ For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior.

1. How do you think Satan is leading minds astray when it comes to our understanding of what God says marriage is, what it is designed to accomplish, how it is to function, its value, its permanency, and its place in the culture?

2. Why do you think Satan wants to attack marriage, what is his end game, how does he benefit, and what does it mean for the Church?

3.  We can’t help but see portrayals of marriage in movies and on televisions shows. Celebrity marriages are front page news stories. Break down the elements of marriage from the world’s perspective. 

What are the expectations for marriage, what forms the bond, how are mates selected, what do the spouses expect of each other and what are they depending upon to keep the marriage intact?

4. Submission is a strange word for modern ears. Why?  What does the Bible say about submission?  Can you name some Bible figures who were submissive? Can you name some who were not?  Do submissive people put themselves at risk in marriage?

In Ephesians 5:21 Paul wrote that we are to submit to one another in marriage out of reverence to Christ.  Reverence to Christ?  What does that have to do with submission in marriage?

5. Why is marriage so difficult (and don’t just talk about the obvious – WOMEN).

6. What is marriage so wonderful (and don’t just focus on MEN).