Redeemer Equips: Sustaining Marriage Through Grace

Objective: Equip participants to persevere in marriage via God's grace, aligning with Reformed doctrines like perseverance of the saints and providence.

Introduction (5 minutes)

• Recap Sessions 1-2: From foundations and roles to endurance.

• Thesis: Marriage thrives not by human effort but through God's sanctifying grace, turning trials into testimonies.

• Engage: Share a brief Reformed quote, e.g., from J.I. Packer on marriage as a "school of character."

Marriage as a Means of Sanctification (15 minutes)

• Key Scripture: Romans 8:28-29; Philippians 2:12-13

• Process: Marriage exposes sin (e.g., selfishness) and fosters conformity to Christ. Reformed view: God's providence uses it for good, as He works in us (Phil 2:13).

• Examples: Conflict as opportunity for repentance; daily grace amid routines.

• Reformed Insight: Reference Westminster Larger Catechism (Q. 75) on sanctification as progressive, applied to marital growth.

Handling Sin, Conflict, and Forgiveness (10 minutes)

• Key Scripture: Matthew 19:3-9; 1 Corinthians 7:10-16; Ephesians 4:32

• Address divorce: Permitted for adultery or abandonment (Westminster Confession Ch. 24), but aim for reconciliation.

• Practices: Confession, forgiveness as gospel reenactment; involve church elders for discipline (Matt 18:15-17).

Navigating Challenges and Spiritual Practices (12 minutes)

• Key Scripture: Hosea 1-3; Deuteronomy 6:6-9; 1 Corinthians 7:32-35

• Common Issues: Infertility, finances, intimacy—view through providence (Rom 8:28). Include singleness as valid calling.

• Sustaining Tools: Joint prayer, Scripture study, sacraments; accountability in Reformed community.

• Illustration: Hosea's marriage as picture of God's faithful love despite unfaithfulness.

Conclusion and Series Wrap-Up (3 minutes)

• Summarize: Grace sustains marriage, pointing to eternal union with Christ (Rev 19:6-9).

• Practical Application: Commit to one spiritual practice (e.g., weekly marriage check-in).

• Final Encouragement: Perseverance of the saints assures God's faithfulness in marriage.