Because I do what I do, I end up in a lot of interesting conversations. In fact, sometimes I end up in different conversations with a lot of different people in a lot of different circumstances about the SAME topic. On some days, I’ll have two or three encounters about the same issue but from totally different perspectives.
Let me give you an example: marriage.
There are a lot of discussions going on in our culture about marriage – what is it?
Who defines it?
Who sanctions it?
These questions are being debated in every arena of our society. Politicians are debating the issue. Preachers are preaching on it.
These questions are being asked:
Should same sex couples be allowed to marry?
How should the church respond to this issue?
Is there a difference between rights as citizens in a free republic and the teachings of Jesus?
See what I mean?
Now, before I jump into the briar patch of same sex marriage, I want to deal with a personal pet peeve. I’m the pastor of a church. I love the church, but as much as I love the church, I have to confess, we do some things badly.
One of the things we do badly is marriage.
Here’s what I mean. Rarely, if ever, will anyone have a discussion with a couple about what Jesus desires for their marriage.
No one will ask about their prayer journeys that lead them to this decision or how they see the kingdom of God being served in their home.
The church will react the same way the world does:
“They’re such a cute couple.”
“They look so good together.”
What? Is this any basis for a Godly marriage?
As Christ-followers, we believe Jesus is Lord of our homes. He owns our marriages. We live to serve Him.
Paul writes to the Ephesians, “I tell you a great mystery, but I‘m talking about Christ and His church.” Do you see that?
Christian marriages serve some of the same purposes as the church.
Christian marriages proclaim Christ.
Christian marriages do missions.
See what I mean?
OK, I know there’s a lot of discussion about marriage going on right now, but like I said, I pastor a church.
So, let’s start there.
Let’s begin by putting the HOLY back in matrimony, then we’ll take on the other questions.
