Setting the Foundation for
GODLY RELATIONSHIPS
The Meaning of Marriage Book Club, based on Timothy Keller's book "The Meaning of Marriage," explores the biblical perspective on marriage and offers practical wisdom that counters today’s culture. Keller, a respected pastor and author, aims to provide insight into God's design for marriage, offering guidance for married couples, singles, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of relational commitment.
In this book study, we aim to bridge the gap between married couples and singles, and men
and women, to build community and create opportunities to learn and grow together.
We will read the book over six sessions that cover topics such as the purpose of marriage, the role of communication and intimacy, and practical advice for building a strong marriage. Each session may feature open discussion questions, scriptural passages, insights from the book, and prayer. Let’s become the people that will shift the perspective of marriage not only in our families, but in this generation!
This Study's Leaders
Our 8-Week Schedule
HOMEWORK WILL BE POSTED ON THE WEBSITE EACH WEEK
Week 1 - Introductions
June 23
Week 2 - Service: Marriage Isn't About You
June 30
Week 3 - Covenant: Created to Make Promises
July 7
Week 4 - Roles: Love through Mutual Submission
July 14
Week 5 - Singleness: Strengthening the Spiritual Family
July 21
Week 6 - Sex: The Act of Covenant Renewal
July 28
Week 7 - Hope: Seeing the Great Horizon
August 4
Week 8 - Outro & Debrief
August 11
In the first session, we are getting to know the leaders and each other as we share thoughts on today's cultural perspective of relationships and how our own ideals of marriage have been shaped by our personal experiences.
This week we will watch and discuss the Session 1 video, Ch. 1 "The Secret for Marriage," Ch. 2 "The Power of Marriage," and Ephesians 2:1-10 to explore the idea that mutual fulfillment and mutual service are foundational to a godly marriage.
In Session 2, we approach covenant and covenant-keeping. This week we will watch the Session 2 video and discuss chapter 3, "The Essence of Marriage," chapter 5, "Loving the Stranger," Genesis 17:3-7, Ezekiel 37:26-28, Genesis 2:22-25, and Malachi 2:14. We aim to understand God's covenant with mankind as the blueprint for the commitment between a husband and wife.
This week we will watch and discuss the Session 3 video, Chapter 6 "Embracing the Other," Ephesians 5:22-33, and Philippians 2:5-11. In conceptualizing Love through Mutual Submission, we hope to see the glory of God within the distinct roles of a husband and wife in a marriage.
We will journey through the significance of singleness as a Christian in Session 4. This week's discussion is centered around the Session 4 video, Chapter 7 "Singleness and Marriage," and 1 Corinthians 7:26-35.
In Session 5, we connect sexual intimacy between a husband and wife, the covenant on which the marriage is founded. To foster a biblical perspective of sexual intimacy, we will watch and discuss the Session 5 video, Chapter 8 "Sex and Marriage," 1 Corinthians 7:3-5, and Proverbs 5:18-19.
This week we circle back to chapter 4, "The Mission of Marriage." In this session, we take a look at how the nature of our redemption and transformation in Christ is reflected in marriage. Through discussion of the chapter, the Session 6 video, and Ephesians 5:25-27, we aim to understand the opportunity we have to take part in a spouse's transformation and the responsibility we have to accept their role in our transformation as well.
We made it to the end! Tonight's gathering is a chance to casually connect and reflect on how our understanding of "the meaning of marriage" has been shaped over the last 7 weeks.
Read Chapters 1-2 to prepare for Session 2.
Complete the Session 1 Home Study reflection questions. Married Couples only: complete the marriage plan activities.
Read Chapters 3 and 5. Read the Introduction for Session 2.
Session Homework
1 / Session 1 Homework (Week 2)