R.C. Sproul, founder of Ligonier Ministries and renowned preacher, discusses the divine institution of marriage. He emphasizes the sacred covenant aspect of marriage and its emotional complexities. Traditional elements in weddings are contrasted with modern trends, highlighting their significance. Sproul dives into the biblical roots of companionship, drawing on Adam's search for a partner. Listeners are encouraged to appreciate the sanctity of marital vows, especially in today's shifting cultural landscape.
Marriage, ordained by God, is a sacred covenant that should not be redefined or diminished, reflecting divine intention and purpose.
Traditional wedding ceremonies convey essential truths about marriage's significance, reinforcing the need for authenticity while allowing for personal creativity.
Deep dives
Divine Ordination of Marriage
Marriage is ordained by God and is not merely a human institution or social agreement. This divine ordination underscores that marriage is part of God's design for humanity and should not be redefined or attacked. The importance of maintaining the sanctity of marriage is emphasized, as it serves a specific purpose established by God. Therefore, deviating from this design is seen as a sin that undermines its intended significance.
The Significance of Ceremony and Tradition
Traditional wedding ceremonies are highlighted as meaningful expressions of marriage that convey deep-rooted significance. These ceremonies often contain words that articulate why marriage exists, reinforcing the concept that it is instituted by God. While creativity in creating personal wedding ceremonies is encouraged, essential elements of the traditional format must be preserved to ensure authenticity. This sentiment points to a wider societal confusion about the meaning of marriage and the importance of its ceremonial practices.
Covenantal Nature of Marriage
Marriage is defined as a covenant, which is a serious agreement marked by promises made in the presence of witnesses. This concept of covenant underscores the seriousness and sacredness of the commitment involved in marriage, contrasting it with informal agreements. The public nature of a marriage ceremony imposes accountability on the individuals, ensuring that vows are not taken lightly. Understanding marriage as a covenant not only highlights its value but also emphasizes God’s authority and regulation over this intimate relationship.
Some people today wonder if marriage is an old-fashioned tradition that should be discarded once and for all. Today, R.C. Sproul considers the origin of marriage to discover God’s purpose for the relationship between husband and wife.
Request R.C. Sproul’s teaching series The Intimate Marriage on DVD, plus lifetime digital access to the messages and study guide, with your donation of any amount:
Meet Today’s Teacher: R.C. Sproul (1939–2017) was known for his ability to winsomely and clearly communicate deep, practical truths from God’s Word. He was founder of Ligonier Ministries, first minister of preaching and teaching at Saint Andrew’s Chapel, first president of Reformation Bible College, and executive editor of Tabletalk magazine. Meet the Host: Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of ministry engagement for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, host of the Ask Ligonier podcast, and a graduate of Presbyterian Theological College in Melbourne, Australia. Nathan joined Ligonier in 2012 and lives in Central Florida with his wife and four children.
Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts
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