CHRISTIAN FAMILY FELLOWSHIP (PDO-Muscat)
God’s Plan for the Family
Golden text: "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh. So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate. (Mat 19:5-6)
Introduction:
No nation can survive the disintegration of its home life, which is smallest unit of society. The enemy knows this and appears determined to destroy the real fabric of society. Whether we look at it from a Christian or non-Christian viewpoint, the institution of marriage is in serious trouble. The tendency with couples today who encounter difficulty in their marriage is to bail out and seek refuge in separation or divorce. But is that God’s plan for the home. Unfortunately, there is very little public out-cry about this. If 30-50% of a renowned brand of car fell apart a few years after manufacture, society would demand a public enquiry. The break down of marriages has crossed the 50% mark in some societies and this has been accepted as a norm.
1 What is our understanding of FAMILY?
Gen 2:18, Gen 1:28
For the purpose of this study, our focus in on the husband, wife (children where applicable).
2 Roles and Responsibilities:
Movement away from clearly identifiable marriage roles is impeding rather than advancing the cause of marriage.
A) Eph 5:23, 25; lCor 11:3; Gen 3:16
Most men’s concept of headship and authority come largely from the natural mind and not from a careful study of the scriptures. The scriptures enjoin the husband to love his wife as Christ loves the church.
Ql How did Jesus Christ love his church? Is it possible to practice same in our days?
Q2 What is the role of the husband? (State in practical details)
Q3 What is our concept of headship?
Q4 Give practical examples of how a man should express his love for his wife
B) Prov 31:10-31; Eph 5:22-24; l Cor 14:34; l Pet 3:1-6; Gen 3:16; Col 3:18; Phil 2:5-8,
Q1 What is the role of the wife?
Q2 Is the husband superior to the wife?
Q3 Who should yield in moments of disagreements?
3) COMMUNICATION: Eph 4:15; Jam 1:19; Ro 18:21
One of the greatest obstacles to a successful marriage is an inability to communicate.
Ql How should couples communicate, formally/informally?
Q2 Should the truth be told at all times, and how? Do you need to tell your spouse everything?
Q3 If couples always tend to quarrel when they want to openly discuss some problems, what should they do?
4) CONFLICT RESOLUTION
Ql If and when disputes arise, how should they be resolved?
Conclusion:
Show me a marriage in which the roles are clearly defined, clearly understood, and acted upon, and I will show you a marriage where relationship blossoms like a beautiful flower. As we go home today, let’s all review our relationships with our spouses and as the Holy Spirit ministers to us let’s begin to obey. It may mean to start afresh setting the foundation of marriages right.