God's Blueprint For Marriage

GOD'S BLUEPRINT FOR MARRIAGE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Genesis 2:18-24

"And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a help meet for him... Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh."

Supporting Texts: Ephesians 5:22-33, Proverbs 18:22, 1 Peter 3:7, Malachi 2:14-16, Matthew 19:4-6

INTRODUCTION

Marriage is a divine institution established by God from the beginning of creation. It is meant to be a lifelong covenant between a man and a woman, designed to reflect God's love and purpose. However, in today's world, many marriages struggle due to a lack of understanding of God's blueprint.

In this sermon, we will explore the biblical principles that define a successful and godly marriage. When couples follow God's design, their marriage becomes a source of joy, fulfilment, and divine blessing.

1. MARRIAGE IS GOD'S DESIGN, NOT MAN'S INVENTION

God created marriage as a sacred institution, not a social contract.

a) Marriage Originated from God

Genesis 2:18 shows that God saw man's need for companionship and created Eve for Adam.

b) Marriage is a Covenant, Not a Contract

Malachi 2:14-16 describes marriage as a covenant that must be honoured before God.

c) Marriage is Between One Man and One Woman

Matthew 19:4-6 reaffirms that marriage is a union ordained by God, and no man should separate what God has joined together.

d) Marriage is a Reflection of Christ and the Church

Ephesians 5:31-32 explains that marriage is a mystery that symbolises Christ’s relationship with the Church.

e) Biblical Example: Adam and Eve (Genesis 2:18-24)

God Himself brought Eve to Adam, establishing the divine order of marriage.

2. THE HUSBAND’S ROLE IN MARRIAGE

The husband is called to be a loving leader in the home.

a) The Husband Must Love His Wife as Christ Loves the Church

Ephesians 5:25 commands husbands to love their wives sacrificially.

b) The Husband Must Lead with Wisdom and Honour

1 Peter 3:7 instructs husbands to dwell with their wives with understanding and honour them.

c) The Husband Must Provide and Protect

1 Timothy 5:8 states that a man who does not provide for his family is worse than an unbeliever.

d) The Husband Must Be a Spiritual Leader

Joshua 24:15 declares that a man must lead his household in serving the Lord.

e) Biblical Example: Abraham (Genesis 18:19)

God chose Abraham because He knew he would lead his household in righteousness.

3. THE WIFE’S ROLE IN MARRIAGE

The wife is called to be a loving helpmate and nurturer.

a) The Wife is a Helper Suitable for Her Husband

Genesis 2:18 states that God made the woman to be a help meet for the man.

b) The Wife Must Submit to Her Husband’s Leadership

Ephesians 5:22-24 teaches that wives should submit to their husbands as unto the Lord.

c) The Wife Must Build Her Home with Wisdom

Proverbs 14:1 declares that a wise woman builds her house, while a foolish one tears it down.

d) The Wife Must Show Respect and Honour

1 Peter 3:1-2 encourages wives to win their husbands over with godly conduct.

e) Biblical Example: Ruth (Ruth 3:1-11)

Ruth demonstrated submission, wisdom, and virtue in her relationship with Boaz.

4. KEYS TO A SUCCESSFUL MARRIAGE

A godly marriage requires intentional effort from both partners.

a) Love and Commitment Must Be Unconditional

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 describes true love as patient, kind, and enduring.

b) Communication is Essential for Understanding

Proverbs 15:1 teaches that a soft answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger.

c) Forgiveness and Grace Must Be Practiced Daily

Colossians 3:13 instructs us to forgive one another just as Christ forgave us.

d) Intimacy and Unity Must Be Cultivated

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 highlights the strength of a threefold cord, representing God in the marriage.

e) Biblical Example: Priscilla and Aquila (Acts 18:24-26)

They worked together in ministry and exemplified unity in marriage.

5. GUARDING AGAINST ATTACKS ON MARRIAGE

The devil seeks to destroy godly marriages, but couples must be vigilant.

a) Beware of Infidelity and Emotional Affairs

Hebrews 13:4 states that marriage must be honoured, and the bed kept pure.

b) Avoid Financial Mismanagement and Conflicts

Proverbs 22:7 warns that the borrower is servant to the lender, highlighting the importance of financial wisdom.

c) Resist the Influence of Ungodly Counsel

Psalm 1:1-2 advises against walking in the counsel of the ungodly.

d) Pray Together and Stay Spiritually Strong

Matthew 18:19-20 emphasises the power of agreement in prayer.

e) Biblical Example: Job and His Wife (Job 2:9-10)

Despite their struggles, Job remained faithful, showing that a marriage must stand firm in faith.

CONCLUSION

Marriage is a divine institution that must be built on God’s foundation to succeed. When husbands and wives embrace their God-given roles, love each other unconditionally, and put God at the centre, their marriage will flourish. Let us commit to following God's blueprint for marriage and experience His blessings in our homes.