This text, as well as other places in Scripture, make it clear that in marriage the man and woman become one. However, the issue is, “What does it really mean to be one and practically how can we function as one?”
“Marriage Is Meant To Be Oneness”
Malachi 2:10-16
Sermon Series: “Meant To Be”
Introduction: This text, as well as other places in Scripture, make it clear that in marriage the man and woman become one. However, the issue is, “What does it really mean to be one and practically how can we function as one?” To answer that question, we are going to examine five characteristics of biblical oneness in marriage and seek to understand and apply them to our marriages.
Characteristics Of Oneness:
1. Permanence: Andy Stanley says, “You can’t un-one one.” We have to be completely and unconditionally committed to our covenant with our spouse (Matthew 19:1-12).
2. Exclusivity: In His original creation, God made one man for one woman, which is a picture of His perfect design. Our marriages are to be exclusive:
A. Physically (no adultery)
B. Mentally (no lust)
C. Visually (no porn)
D. Emotionally (no questionable relationships with the opposite sex)
We have to be willing to do whatever it takes to maintain an exclusive relationship with our spouse in each of these areas. Proverbs 27:12 says, “A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself. The simple pass on and are punished.” Also, the degree of self-control that is practiced during singleness will make this either easier or more difficult when entering marriage.
3. Unity: We are to strive to be a team, to be connected, and be on the same page in every area of life. This means that we work together to have convictions/plans that guide our marriage, parenting, finances, dealing with relatives, house cleaning/upkeep, use of leisure time, etc. We must pursue obedience in our roles to lead and help and commands to love and respect. Repentance and forgiveness are essential to unity. It is important that we work to get on the same page instead of just blaming each other. I would encourage us to visualize the space in between us as being occupied by Satan.
4. Sexual Union: We literally become one flesh in the sexual union (Genesis 2:24), which is the physical expression of the oneness we have relationally in the marriage covenant (1 Corinthians 7:1-5, Hebrews 13:4). The covenant not only excludes us from all others but it binds us to meeting the other person’s needs.
“Marriage Is Meant To Be Oneness”
Malachi 2:10-16
Sermon Series: “Meant To Be”
Introduction: This text, as well as other places in Scripture, make it clear that in marriage the man and woman become one. However, the issue is, “What does it really mean to be one and practically how can we function as one?” To answer that question, we are going to examine five characteristics of biblical oneness in marriage and seek to understand and apply them to our marriages.
Characteristics Of Oneness:
1. Permanence: Andy Stanley says, “You can’t un-one one.” We have to be completely and unconditionally committed to our covenant with our spouse (Matthew 19:1-12).
2. Exclusivity: In His original creation, God made one man for one woman, which is a picture of His perfect design. Our marriages are to be exclusive:
A. Physically (no adultery)
B. Mentally (no lust)
C. Visually (no porn)
D. Emotionally (no questionable relationships with the opposite sex)
We have to be willing to do whatever it takes to maintain an exclusive relationship with our spouse in each of these areas. Proverbs 27:12 says, “A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself. The simple pass on and are punished.” Also, the degree of self-control that is practiced during singleness will make this either easier or more difficult when entering marriage.
3. Unity: We are to strive to be a team, to be connected, and be on the same page in every area of life. This means that we work together to have convictions/plans that guide our marriage, parenting, finances, dealing with relatives, house cleaning/upkeep, use of leisure time, etc. We must pursue obedience in our roles to lead and help and commands to love and respect. Repentance and forgiveness are essential to unity. It is important that we work to get on the same page instead of just blaming each other. I would encourage us to visualize the space in between us as being occupied by Satan.
4. Sexual Union: We literally become one flesh in the sexual union (Genesis 2:24), which is the physical expression of the oneness we have relationally in the marriage covenant (1 Corinthians 7:1-5, Hebrews 13:4). The covenant not only excludes us from all others but it binds us to meeting the other person’s needs.
5. Intimacy (Genesis 2:25): Intimacy means no secrets and no shame. It is being open, honest, and vulnerable. It is spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical. Intimacy is knowing and being known by another person. Intimacy is being naked in every way before each other but it starts with being clothed with the righteousness of Christ so we can stand before God and live out of that security.