Pastor Lowell Nelson teaches a topical study about God's Design for Marriage Part 1: Laying the Foundation for a Godly Marriage on 8/27/2006 for our Sunday service.
This part introduces the series by emphasizing that building a godly marriage is a lifelong process requiring constant effort and a battle against selfish desires. It stresses the importance of individual hearts being open to God's "surgical scalpel" and submitting wills and desires to the Holy Scriptures. Key biblical directives are introduced from Ephesians 5, including understanding God's will, being filled with the Spirit, giving thanks, and submitting to one another. The ultimate authority in marriage is Christ, and both spouses are called to "Hear Him". The session highlights that the motivation for serving in marriage should be a response to Jesus Christ's redemption, not an expectation of earthly reward or a spouse's gratitude. It also underscores the importance of acknowledging one's own weaknesses, as God's strength is made perfect in them.
