Challenging Traditional Perspectives on Marriage and Singleness
Explore how historical and biblical perspectives on marriage and singleness are being re-evaluated in modern times, challenging traditional norms and assumptions. Discover new ways of living and forming meaningful connections beyond conventional structures.
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Presentation Transcript
From the heart From the heart 4. Gifted to Serve 1 Peter 4:7-11. (p. 1124-25)
Summer series From the heart Cherith our identity as image bearers of God Saana Consumerism Paul Hospitality Theme Think differently, live differently
1. Marriage is the Norm? We Assume adults are married Ministry for children & Young adults Ministry for families & married adults Problem Stats Canada (2011) 46.4% married, 53.%6 not More than half do not fit the stereotype
1. Marriage is the Norm? Sarah Williams in Christian history Spiritual man took monastic vows E.g. a man today applying for to be a pastor Paul it is better to be unmarried (1 Cor 7:38) Focus on pleasing the Lord not the spouse
2. Singleness is Better Single a new word for the unmarried Grown up alongside idea of nuclear family Marriage as the ideal only way to deal with sexual desire (1 Cor. 7:9) Idea of singleness developed as alternative
2. Singleness is Better Historically - unmarried seldom lived alone Lived in communities monasteries / convents Realistic way to cope with the demands of life Church s current assumptions Statistically incorrect Contrary to Scripture At odds with historical ideas of spirituality
3. New Ways of Living Passage sacrificial, Christ-oriented living Speak the words of God to one another Serve in the power of God Love earnestly ... covers multitude of sins That God may be glorified. Great theory! What about in practice?
3. New Ways of Living Wes Hill Augustine, Queer theory, A self-identified gay man. He is celibate & single Lives with a pastor and his family not alone! Godparent of their children, eats together, An integrated part of the family
3. New Ways of Living A new definition of family The nuclear family in not the norm The NT defines family as people of God (Mk 3:35) Family with husband & wife not contrary too limited! Living alone is not easy & not necessary Christian community must find better solutions
3. Becoming Meek Pastor Colin Smith, Unblocking the Bible Meekness means God uses to tame sinful soul Meekness calms, soothes, subdues Put away anger, wrath put on meekness, love A choice to be characterized differently Reflect the meekness & gentleness of Christ (2 Co. 10:1)
Living It E.g Early Christians and abandoned babies Took them into their homes Who will criticize if we: Take unmarried moms into our homes Open our homes to the elderly & frail Are creative with community living arrangements We are gifted in the Spirit to love one another
