Malachi 2...
We are studying the last book of the Old Testament. God's last words to His people before 400 years of silence. The next time we will hear from God will be through the angel Gabriel and his message to Zechariah and Elizabeth. Last week we looked at chapter 1 and realized that God is upset about the actions of His people. V.2 they are doubting God's love. V.6 they are despising God's name. V.7 they are not giving their best to God with their offerings. Is there more that God could be upset about?
Chapter 2 keeps right on going with 2 more points that go together. The first point is corrupt ministry and God says He will bring curses upon what should be blessings. The second point is corrupt marriages that are practiced and promoted by those in ministry. The text brings it so we will handle the topic of divorce, especially because God says that He hates it. I am not sure at this point if it will be a one sermon or two sermon topic. The goal would be to have a biblical view of marriage and divorce and why God would be so direct with His emotions on this. Common practices of that day and very common to our day and we have this great opportunity to live our lives through our marriages in a way that glorifies God.
I know that I will be speaking to over half the congregation when I speak of those who have been divorced or have be a part of a divorced family. I guess all the more reason to get out some important points like, "God hates the act of divorce but loves divorced people." "The world makes many things legal but they can still be not right before God." "God gives an exception but it doesn't mean it has to end that way."
Am I taking God seriously with my marriage? Of course, I pray and hope all those single ones in our congregation hear the message of how important that the potential life partner be a unashamedly follower of Jesus Christ. The first and most important question to ask and act upon is "What is your understanding of who Jesus is?" That sure is a long way from looks and common interests and the petter patter of the heart but it is what will keep you together through those book-end vows you will make. 2 people sold out and living out a life that is honoring to God will make it.
Adam
Chapter 2 keeps right on going with 2 more points that go together. The first point is corrupt ministry and God says He will bring curses upon what should be blessings. The second point is corrupt marriages that are practiced and promoted by those in ministry. The text brings it so we will handle the topic of divorce, especially because God says that He hates it. I am not sure at this point if it will be a one sermon or two sermon topic. The goal would be to have a biblical view of marriage and divorce and why God would be so direct with His emotions on this. Common practices of that day and very common to our day and we have this great opportunity to live our lives through our marriages in a way that glorifies God.
I know that I will be speaking to over half the congregation when I speak of those who have been divorced or have be a part of a divorced family. I guess all the more reason to get out some important points like, "God hates the act of divorce but loves divorced people." "The world makes many things legal but they can still be not right before God." "God gives an exception but it doesn't mean it has to end that way."
Am I taking God seriously with my marriage? Of course, I pray and hope all those single ones in our congregation hear the message of how important that the potential life partner be a unashamedly follower of Jesus Christ. The first and most important question to ask and act upon is "What is your understanding of who Jesus is?" That sure is a long way from looks and common interests and the petter patter of the heart but it is what will keep you together through those book-end vows you will make. 2 people sold out and living out a life that is honoring to God will make it.
Adam
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