In John 2 we get the first significant miracle recorded of Jesus’ ministry and that is the wedding at Cana. The institution of marriage is God given, Gen 2:24, and understood universally in all cultures as the basis for society’s well being and prosperity. Today Ross takes a wider look at marriage and examines why marriage rates have fallen and why it is not seen as vital or necessary.

Another aspect Ross looks at is how we are living as both single and married people in terms of sexual conduct and thought life, and how sex outside of a covenant marriage relationship is damaging to both the individual and those around. He asks the question whether we are getting ready for the ultimate wedding and the marriage supper where the Church will be presented spotless to the Lamb.

Preparing for your wedding

Pray for God’s choice
Seek guidance from friends and family
Keep yourself pure Arousal? Song 2:7, Song 5:9, Song 8:4
Learn self control Gal 3:23
Agree on boundaries
Enjoy the wife of your youth - Prov 5:18

Lastly, Ross gives example from his own marriage of nearly 50 years of how we can all prepare for our marriage partner, whether that be you future husband or wife, or as a single to preserve your body as a temple of the Holy Spirit, 1 Cor 6:12-20

Simon begins with observing that Paul letters are conversational. Written from real people to real people with real and troubling problems.

Secondly, the letter is pastoral with a purpose of teaching and helping the people in the Corinthian church, faith in action, integrated with real life. Sometimes the message is hurtful but Paul’s motivation is his love for the brothers and sisters in Corinth.

Thirdly, Paul’s message is theological and speaks about Jesus, the centre and foundation of the church, and that the problems that arise stem from people not building their lives around Jesus, or not fully understanding the message of the gospel. False theology underpins un-Godly living, and Paul corrects their false views and misconceptions by bringing the believers back to Christ, back to the cross. It is theology but its also theology in overalls, a knowledge of God that needs to be lived out. Not just wisdom kept in your head so that you can boast, but wisdom that moves from the head to the heart and bears fruit in Godly living.

Disputes
Paul tells the Corinthians that their disputes with each other are never more important than the message of the Gospel so why not suffer wrong for the sake of the Gospel?

The Gospel is all about not getting what you deserve but instead receiving grace.

We risk our disputes over taking the Gospel of Christ. By walking away from the cross and instead toward the court room we have already lost.

Liberty

Love for each other takes precedence over liberty. True christian freedom is doing what is good and not just what is good for you but good for all. Live a life that enhances rather than exploits.

Ultimate Wedding - are you ready for the Groom? - Ross P

Lawsuits & Liberty - 1 Cor 6 : Simon S