Topic: “Right Relationships in Marriage” By M. S. Stephens Text: Ephesians 5:21-33 Introduction Marriage is one of the oldest institutions established by God, instituted in the Garden of Eden before the fall of man (Genesis 2:18-25). It is sacred, divine, and purposeful—meant to mirror the relationship between Christ and His Church. Sadly, in today’s world, many marriages are strained, broken, or misaligned due to a lack of understanding and practice of godly principles. Many people enter into marriage with the wrong expectations, cultural misconceptions, or unresolved emotional baggage. This message is designed to help us realign our understanding of marriage based on God’s Word and walk in the right relationship within marriage as God intended. Text: Ephesians 5:21–33 This passage is foundational in understanding God’s blueprint for marriage. It speaks of mutual submission (v.21), the husband’s loving leadership (v.25), and the wife’s respectful support (v.33). The union of a man and a woman in marriage is likened to the profound mystery of Christ’s relationship with the Church (v.32). Basics of the Message 1. Marriage is God’s idea (Genesis 2:24) 2. It is a covenant, not a contract (Malachi 2:14-16) 3. Husbands are to love sacrificially (Ephesians 5:25-28) 4. Wives are to respect and support (Ephesians 5:33; Titus 2:4-5) 5. Both partners are to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ (Ephesians 5:21) Challenges in Marriages Today Miscommunication and lack of understanding Pride and unwillingness to submit Influence of ungodly counsel or media Infidelity and trust issues Neglect of spiritual leadership and prayer Cultural distortions of roles in marriage Biblical Concepts Associated with the Topic 1. Mutual Submission – Ephesians 5:21 2. Sacrificial Love – John 15:13; Ephesians 5:25 3. Godly Respect – 1 Peter 3:1-7 4. Unity and Oneness – Matthew 19:6 5. Faithfulness – Hebrews 13:4 6. Companionship and Help – Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; Genesis 2:18 Application and Implications Application: Practice regular prayer and devotion together. Engage in honest, respectful communication. Support each other’s roles as defined by God. Seek counsel when needed. Prioritize spiritual growth over material gain. Implications: Right relationships in marriage strengthen the Church and society. When marriages are out of alignment with God’s Word, families and generations suffer. A marriage that honors God becomes a powerful testimony to others. Lessons to Learn 1. God desires harmony, not competition, in marriage. 2. Love and respect are not optional—they are divine commands. 3. Submission is not slavery; it is strength under control. 4. Christ is the model for every husband’s leadership and every wife’s submission. 5. A strong marriage requires continual effort and godly wisdom. Call to Action To the unmarried: Prepare for marriage by growing in Christlikeness. To the married: Renew your vows in word and deed, putting God at the center. To all: Pray for marriages around you; support struggling couples with love and wisdom. Let us commit to building homes that reflect the love of Christ and advance God’s kingdom. Conclusion God’s desire for marriage is not merely coexistence but communion, companionship, and covenant. When we pattern our marriages after Christ and His Church, we experience fulfillment, growth, and joy, even in challenging times. Right relationships in marriage are possible—not by our strength but by the grace of God and obedience to His Word. Let every marriage become a garden where the fruit of the Spirit flourishes and where Christ is glorified daily. Matching Baptist Hymn BH 489 – “Bless This House, O Lord We Pray” It is a hymn that seeks God’s presence, peace, and strength in the home—a perfect prayer for marital harmony. Closing Prayer Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of marriage and Your divine blueprint for how it should function. Help us, Lord, to walk in love, humility, and godly submission. Restore broken homes and renew our hearts toward one another. May every husband lead with love, and every wife is supported with respect. Teach us to forgive, to serve, and to seek Your will always. Let our marriages be a testimony of Your grace. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen. Take Home Questions 1. In what ways can I reflect on Christ’s love in my current or future marriage? 2. How do I understand and practice submission as taught in Ephesians 5:21-33? 3. What role does prayer and Bible study play in strengthening my marriage? 4. What cultural beliefs about marriage do I need to unlearn to follow God’s design? 5. How can my marriage (or future marriage) be a witness of the gospel to others?