that the first three sins in Paul’s list are sexual and therefore have clear application to marriage. But the others apply as well—what forms of idolatry can drive a wedge between a husband and wife? How about jealousy ? And what about uncontrollable anger ? And envy ? Discuss these as they appear in marriage. 3. Note how Paul ends his list: “and things like these.” Did he intend to make a comprehensive roster of relational sins? Briefly suggest a few more from your own experience. 4. Paul then presents another list that describes the perfect opposite of living for the kingdom of self—read aloud vv22-23 . Note that these characteristics are not fruits plural but “ the fruit of the Spirit,” the collective yield or produce of righteousness resulting from the Spirit’s work of sanctification (we touched on this in the third session). Discuss the application of some of these characteristics to marriage. For example, how is a joyful wife a great blessing to her husband, and why does a wife need her husband to be a man of peace ? Give specific circumstances in which patience and kindness are particularly needed by both marriage partners. And cite some specific behaviors in which a spouse deeply needs to see self-control in his or her partner. 5. And again, notice that Paul ends this list without “and” between gentleness and self-control— did he intend to make a comprehensive roster of relationally righteous characteristics? Briefly suggest a few additional qualities that you have admired in godly people. 6. Such fruit “describes God’s Kingdom purpose for every one of His children,” and so you must make Christ-like character the purpose for your marriage. “In every small moment of your marriage, you’re making kingdom choices” : discuss some specific, practical ways by which you can become more familiar with Paul’s “produce list,” and keep it ever before you as a daily guide. 7. The kingdom of self is cramped, petty and unfulfilling. In the Kingdom of God, which it is the Father’s good pleasure to give us ( Luke 12:32 ), there are “fullness of joy and pleasures forevermore” ( Psalm 16:11 ). Why wouldn’t we want the Kingdom of God? Why do we want the kingdom of self? Why so often do we choose to serve our own ends to the hurt and discouragement of our loved one, when we are free in Christ to escort them into the presence of the Lord?
Session 8
WHAT DID YOU EXPECT?
24
Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs