Week 52: In Defense of Marriage

Read Time: 2.4 min

Marriage cannot be defended on a cultural basis. Marriage does not look the same across different cultures, differing faith groups, and among those with same sex attraction. The defense of marriage is much more than a political or intellectual exercise.

The broader culture does not honor marriage in the same way as the Bible. The cultural definition and expectation of marriage leans towards and promotes what is expedient and pragmatic, not what is constructive, exemplary, or lasting. For these reasons, the best defense of marriage as a biblical concept does not reside in a skillfully worded definition or result from sweeping legislation, but in a good example.

The best defense of biblical marriage does not take place in a meeting or in a voting booth. The best defense of marriage takes place in the bedroom, around the kitchen table, on a vacation with the family, and during the time with friends. The claims made in defense of the biblical model for marriage are best validated for others, especially children, when they see a marriage that actually works; validated when they see marriages that are nurturing, functional, safe, and a model for future generations.

A marriage well-lived will always be the best defense of the biblical pattern for marriage.

…the best defense of marriage as a biblical concept does not reside in a skillfully worded definition or result from sweeping legislation, but in a good example.

Some Things To Do For The Week

Day 2: Reflect on the message and scripture reading; journal if you like
Day 3: Pray for or meditate on what you think you need
Day 4: Discuss the message and scripture with your spouse
Day 5: Plan how you can best respond to the message
Day 6: Rest; don’t think about the message or the scripture; listen in the stillness
Day 7: Recommit yourself to your marriage

Applicable scripture listed under Discussion References.