What God has joined, let no one amputate
Matthew 19:3-9
Kevin Glenn
Part of Love & Marriage & Singleness & ... You Know—Sermon Series
June 19, 2022

What God has joined, let no one amputate: Matthew 19:3-9
Dr. Kevin D. Glenn – Lead Pastor

Marriage and divorce are both powerful relational realities in our world. Whether married or single, every one of us has been affected by both. Followers of Jesus are not exempt from marital troubles and divorce. Much of this is due to a lack of clarity on what’s important in a healthy marriage, as well as how to understand and avoid the pitfalls that destroy marriages.

Today, we’re looking to the Scriptures on the hopeful and healthy aspects of marriage. The goal is to take these biblical principles to heart for the good of ourselves, our friends, our families, and for the flourishing of our world.

1. What is the essence of marriage? A

. - Matthew 19:5, Ezekiel 16:8
• The covenant of marriage is not about today; it’s about the future.

2. What is the purpose of marriage? A

(Allup)Matthew 19:5-6, Genesis 2:18, 23
• Men and women were created to walk beside each other in deep covenant partnership.
: This is why compatibility of faith commitment is so important. How will you be completely understood and valued if the faith foundations of a covenant partnership are different?

: Look carefully at your marriage. How is the friendship? Is there mutual admiration and respect? Is there honor? Are there secrets? Is there trust? Go as far as you can toward genuine friendship.

3. What are the top priorities in a marriage? The marriage

, under Christ. - Matthew 19:5
• Under Christ, marriage must be the priority relationship in your life because it is the most powerful relationship in your life.
• Marriage calls for a love that is expressed in the unconditional love of Jesus. As you move toward Christ, you will move toward each other.

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Questions to Ponder
• Discuss the future-oriented nature of covenant. Why is it important to understand that commitment, promises, and vows are the essence of marriage rather than kids, feelings, or attraction?
• Do you agree that your spouse should be your “allup” – your best friend? Why or why not? If not, how do you respond to the Biblical text?
• Suggesting that common faith in Christ is important for a healthy marriage is always met with controversy. How do you respond to the notion that having a Christ in common is vital?
• What does your friendship with your spouse say about the health of your marriage?
• Is your marriage your top priority? If not, why not? What are you going to do about it?
• Are you pursuing Christ?