January 18th, 2016 By SunDial

7 men gathered on a chilly morning at Louie’s Grille for some good discussion on marriage, and some slightly different opinions – which is good! Below is an outline of our conversation. There were some interesting diagrams to go along with each model that I can’t put in.

(from “The Quest for Authentic Manhood” by Robert Lewis)

I. A Key Verse for Husbands (or future husbands): 1 Peter 3:7

A. “…in an understanding way” = Insight and skill

B. “and grant her honor” = Appreciation and value

C. “fellow heir in the grace of life” = equality and worth

II. Three Models of Marriage

A. The Top-Down Traditional Marriage
Luke 22:25-26
– Husband’s position: King
– Leadership style: Lord
– Goal in mind: personal benefits
– Effects on marriage: usually a winner and a loser

B. The 50-50 Identical Marriage
Galatians 3:28
– Husband’s position: Partner
– Leadership style: Leaderless
– Goal in mind: Equality
– Effects on marriage: Difficult balance, especially during hard times

C. The Side-by-Side Biblical Marriage
Ephesians 5:23, 25, 31
– Husband’s position: Head
– Leadership style: Responsible & sacrificial
– Goal in mind: Oneness
– Effects on marriage: Happier and healthier marriage

(We discussed another model of marriage, which is somewhere between B and C. Neither husband nor wife is per se the leader, but both equals and both leading)

III. Discussion Questions
1. Why are there so many “models” of marriage in our culture today? Why are they so varied?

2. Which of these 3 models (or perhaps another) are you currently pursuing with your wife?

3. How could you make your wife feel more valued and honored this week? Today?

Moleskin:
1. The title, mandate, has 3 meanings…gotta show to know!
2. Gamma is a kind gentleman (see: gentle man) for picking up Water Bear’s tab.
3. Solo Cup always keeps things interesting with his remarks! =)
4. I enjoyed the conversation this morning, guys. Thanks!

Endurance, Harrisburg

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