Reflecting Christ in Marriage, Family, and Work
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the profound teachings of Colossians 3, focusing on the relationships that form the foundation of our lives: marriage, family, and work. These relationships are not just societal constructs but divine designs meant to reflect God's order and grace. We began by discussing the role of marriage, emphasizing that wives are called to submit to their husbands not out of inferiority but as a reflection of the divine order God established. This submission is not about silence or weakness but about supporting and strengthening the husband in his God-given role. Husbands, on the other hand, are called to love their wives sacrificially, as Christ loved the church, ensuring that their leadership is marked by love, respect, and understanding.
We then turned our attention to the family, where children are instructed to obey their parents as a way of honoring God. This obedience fosters a home filled with peace and joy. Parents, particularly fathers, are cautioned against embittering their children, as this can lead to discouragement. Instead, they are encouraged to nurture their children with love and guidance, reflecting the way God treats us with encouragement and support.
In the workplace, we are reminded that our work is ultimately for the Lord, not just for human masters. Whether as employees or employers, we are called to act with integrity, fairness, and dedication, knowing that our true reward comes from God. This perspective transforms our daily tasks into acts of worship, bringing peace and purpose even in the most mundane duties.
Finally, we acknowledged that relationships often reveal our shortcomings, but they also provide opportunities for grace and growth. By approaching God's throne with confidence, we find the mercy and grace needed to navigate these relationships. As we strive to reflect Christ in our marriages, families, and workplaces, we are reminded that our ultimate calling is to love and serve as Jesus did, ensuring that no one feels second when He is first in our lives.
Key Takeaways:
1. Marriage as a Divine Design: Marriage is a reflection of God's order, where wives submit not out of weakness but as a reflection of divine design, and husbands love sacrificially, mirroring Christ's love for the church. This mutual respect and love create a harmonious relationship that honors God. [43:03]
2. Parenting with Grace: Parents are called to nurture their children with love and guidance, avoiding actions that lead to discouragement. By reflecting God's encouragement and support, parents can foster an environment where children thrive and feel valued. [51:01]
3. Work as Worship: Our work is ultimately for the Lord, not just for human masters. By working with integrity and dedication, we transform our daily tasks into acts of worship, bringing peace and purpose to our professional lives. [53:23]
4. The Role of Obedience in Family: Children are instructed to obey their parents as a way of honoring God, which fosters a home filled with peace and joy. This obedience is a child's first step in serving Jesus and contributes to a harmonious family life. [57:10]
5. Grace in Relationships: Relationships often reveal our shortcomings, but they also provide opportunities for grace and growth. By approaching God's throne with confidence, we find the mercy and grace needed to navigate these relationships, ensuring that Christ is reflected in all we do. [01:00:09]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:30] - Introduction and Family Sunday
- [02:00] - Story of a Road Trip
- [08:45] - Parenting Challenges
- [12:30] - Focus on God's Word
- [15:00] - Marriage: Wives and Husbands
- [20:00] - The Husband's Store Story
- [25:00] - Submission and Leadership
- [30:00] - Parenting: Children and Fathers
- [35:00] - Work: Employees and Employers
- [40:00] - Working for the Lord
- [45:00] - Grace in Relationships
- [50:00] - Prayer and Family Unity
- [55:00] - Pastor Search Team Introduction
- [01:10:00] - Closing Prayer and Dismissal
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
- Colossians 3:18-25
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Observation Questions:
1. What does Colossians 3:18-19 say about the roles of husbands and wives in marriage? How does this reflect the divine design mentioned in the sermon? [43:03]
2. According to the sermon, what is the significance of children obeying their parents, and how does this contribute to a peaceful home environment? [57:10]
3. How does the sermon describe the way parents, particularly fathers, should interact with their children to avoid discouragement? [51:01]
4. What does the sermon suggest about the attitude we should have towards our work, and how does this relate to serving the Lord? [53:23]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the concept of submission in marriage, as discussed in the sermon, differ from societal views of submission? What does this reveal about God's design for marriage? [43:03]
2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that parenting should reflect God's treatment of us? How can this understanding change the way parents approach their role? [51:01]
3. How does viewing work as an act of worship, as mentioned in the sermon, transform the way we approach our daily tasks? What impact might this have on our professional lives? [53:23]
4. The sermon highlights the importance of grace in relationships. How can recognizing our shortcomings lead to growth and stronger relationships? [01:00:09]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your marriage or a close relationship. How can you better embody the principles of love and submission as described in Colossians 3:18-19? What specific actions can you take this week to strengthen this relationship? [43:03]
2. As a parent, what steps can you take to ensure that your children feel encouraged and supported rather than discouraged? Identify one area where you can improve your approach to parenting this week. [51:01]
3. Consider your current job or daily responsibilities. How can you shift your perspective to see your work as an act of worship? What practical changes can you make to align your work with serving the Lord? [53:23]
4. Think about a relationship in your life that reveals your shortcomings. How can you approach this relationship with more grace and seek growth? What is one step you can take to improve this relationship? [01:00:09]
5. Identify a specific area in your family life where obedience and respect can be improved. How can you foster an environment that encourages these values? What role can you play in making this change? [57:10]
6. Reflect on a time when you felt overwhelmed by your responsibilities. How can you apply the sermon’s message of seeking God’s grace and mercy to find peace in these moments? What is one prayer or scripture you can turn to for strength? [01:00:09]
7. How can you ensure that Jesus is truly first in your life, so that no one feels second? Identify one practical way to prioritize your relationship with Christ this week. [01:00:09]
Devotional
Day 1: Marriage Reflects Divine Order
Marriage is a sacred relationship designed to reflect God's divine order. Wives are encouraged to submit to their husbands, not as a sign of inferiority, but as a reflection of the divine order established by God. This submission is about supporting and strengthening the husband in his God-given role. Husbands, in turn, are called to love their wives sacrificially, just as Christ loved the church. This love is characterized by respect, understanding, and a willingness to put the needs of the wife above their own. When both partners embrace these roles, marriage becomes a harmonious relationship that honors God and reflects His love to the world. [43:03]
Ephesians 5:22-25 (ESV): "Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her."
Reflection: In what ways can you actively support and strengthen your spouse in their God-given role today?
Day 2: Parenting with Grace
Parenting is a divine responsibility that requires nurturing children with love and guidance. Children are instructed to obey their parents as a way of honoring God, which fosters a home filled with peace and joy. Parents, particularly fathers, are cautioned against actions that may embitter their children, leading to discouragement. Instead, they are encouraged to reflect God's encouragement and support, creating an environment where children feel valued and thrive. By embodying grace in their parenting, parents can help their children grow into individuals who honor God in their own lives. [51:01]
Colossians 3:20-21 (ESV): "Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they become discouraged."
Reflection: How can you intentionally encourage and support your children today to help them feel valued and loved?
Day 3: Work as Worship
Work is not merely a means to an end but an opportunity to serve the Lord. Whether as employees or employers, individuals are called to act with integrity, fairness, and dedication, knowing that their true reward comes from God. This perspective transforms daily tasks into acts of worship, bringing peace and purpose even in the most mundane duties. By viewing work as a form of worship, individuals can find fulfillment and joy in their professional lives, knowing that they are ultimately serving the Lord. [53:23]
Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV): "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."
Reflection: What is one way you can transform a mundane task at work into an act of worship today?
Day 4: The Role of Obedience in Family
Obedience within the family is a reflection of honoring God. Children are instructed to obey their parents, which contributes to a harmonious family life filled with peace and joy. This obedience is not just about following rules but is a child's first step in serving Jesus. By fostering an environment of mutual respect and love, families can reflect God's order and grace, creating a home where each member feels valued and loved. [57:10]
Proverbs 6:20-22 (ESV): "My son, keep your father's commandment, and forsake not your mother's teaching. Bind them on your heart always; tie them around your neck. When you walk, they will lead you; when you lie down, they will watch over you; and when you awake, they will talk with you."
Reflection: How can you encourage obedience and respect within your family today in a way that honors God?
Day 5: Grace in Relationships
Relationships often reveal our shortcomings, but they also provide opportunities for grace and growth. By approaching God's throne with confidence, individuals can find the mercy and grace needed to navigate these relationships. As people strive to reflect Christ in their marriages, families, and workplaces, they are reminded that their ultimate calling is to love and serve as Jesus did. Ensuring that no one feels second when Christ is first in their lives is a testament to His love and grace. [01:00:09]
Hebrews 4:16 (ESV): "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need."
Reflection: Think of a relationship where you struggle to show grace. How can you approach God's throne today to seek the mercy and grace needed to improve this relationship?
Quotes
I'm an AI bot trained only on this specific sermon. Do you have any questions about it?
But, in all seriousness, she looks here. She said, you know what? This is great. This is where I really, I really, I think this is a great place to be. But, you know what? I think I'm going to go up one more floor, just in case. Just in case there's something better. So, she goes up to the next floor, and this floor, it says, these are men with jobs, who love children, who are good looking, and who are sensitive to their wives. Wow, right? Ladies, this is where you would want to find your husband, right? This is the perfect, perfect husband. But she says, you know what? As great as this is, every floor has been getting better. So, maybe, just maybe, there's something better on the next floor. So, she goes up to the fifth floor, and on the fifth floor, it says, these are men who love, who have jobs, who love children, who are drop -dead gorgeous, who are sensitive to their wives' needs, and get this, ladies, who will watch a Hallmark movie with you. That's it, right? That's it. That's the place where you want to stay. [00:39:47] (56 seconds)
But this particular young woman said, you know what? Every floor has gotten better, so floor number six has got to be the best of the best. That's where the best guy has got to be. And so, he goes up to the sixth floor, and on, I mean, she goes up to the sixth floor. Excuse me, we're not that kind of church. She goes up to the sixth floor, and on the sixth floor, there's a sign that reads, you are visitor number 31 ,622 ,612. There are no men on this floor, and it's proof positive that women just can't be satisfied. Anyway, send your emails to tfus at hhbc .net. [00:40:42] (39 seconds)
Anyway, back to the passage. I'm sorry to get off on that, but the passage begins, Paul begins, by saying, wives, submit to your husbands. Now, let's pause here for a second. Paul doesn't say, he doesn't say, wives, submit to any man, or even submit to the ideal version of your husband. He says, or the one you imagine on the wedding day, or the one he might become if he just would read a few more books. No, it says, submit to your husband, the one that you have right now, the one that you got. And let's be honest, a lot of times we like to negotiate with the Lord, like, Lord, I'm on board with this command, just as soon as you give me the guy who's like a combination between Tom Cruise and the Apostle Paul. [00:41:21] (42 seconds)
And here, ladies, it's not about superiority. Or it's not about spiritual rank. About spiritual rank. It's about reflecting something heavenly. Something that God designed. [00:42:18] (11 seconds)
Back in Genesis, both man and woman were made in God's image. They were equal in value. But they were distinct in their roles. Adam was tasked with the idea of leading. While Eve was created to help. Not because she was less. [00:42:29] (15 seconds)
But because her role was beautifully made. And beautifully different. And look at what Jesus did. When Jesus came to the earth, he submitted to his father. Not because he was showing weakness. Because he was equal with God. But it was strength. [00:42:43] (15 seconds)
So when the Christian wife honors her husband's role. When she's not silencing her voice. It's not that he's silencing her voice. But she's showing us something of Jesus. How he loved. And how he submitted. And that doesn't mean that you're being a doormat. And you're agreeing with everything. It means that you are using your gifts. And your wisdom to strengthen your husband. As he carries the weight that God has laid upon him. You are supporting him. You're not tearing him down. Or trying to outshine him. But yet you're building him up. And you're walking beside him along the way. [00:43:02] (34 seconds)
And you know every home looks different. In ours. Amy's an amazing wife. I married up. There's absolutely no question about that. You know that. She's more organized. She's more kind. She's a lot nicer than I am. [00:43:36] (16 seconds)
And she's often the better parent. And I would be foolish to try to take over things. That she already excels at. But we listen to one another. We talk to one another. We lean at each other's strengths. And most importantly. This isn't just a rule. It's the word of God. [00:43:50] (19 seconds)
If we hear it as just another outdated command. We resist it. And we say no that's not for me. But if we see it as a way to reflect Christ. We see it as a way to reflect Jesus. We'll find beauty. And we'll find grace. [00:44:10] (13 seconds)
And if that matters in our lives. Then how would that look in our lives today? Now husbands. You're not left off the hook. Because he goes right into it to husbands. And if we look at Ephesians chapter 5. Ephesians chapter 5 tells us. To love your wives just as Christ loved the church. And gave himself up for her. [00:44:23] (21 seconds)
Paul doesn't say lead your wives. Make sure she obeys. He says love her. Think about that. Think about her. Think about sacrificing for her. Just as Jesus did for us. And Proverbs 31. It gives us a lot of verses. But the one I want to focus on here. It says a wife of noble character. Is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her. And that's not just being nice. That's choosing your wife again and again. Putting her first. Dying to yourself. And Paul adds don't be harsh with her. And that's not just talking about like shouting or manipulating. But quieter forms. Like when we withhold gratitude. [00:44:45] (43 seconds)
Because gratitude matters in your marriage. If you can thank your co -workers. If you can thank the person that waits on you in a restaurant. The person that makes your cup of coffee. But you can't thank your wife. You can't be grateful to your wife. That creates a cold home. [00:45:32] (16 seconds)
Why can't you be like that kid that plays so good on the soccer team? Why can't you be as smart as the neighbor's kid? And when we do things like that, kids stop believing that they're enough and that they please you. But think about how God treats us. He doesn't belittle us. He doesn't discourage us. He encourages us. He builds us up. He guides us. He encourages us in our daily lives. [00:49:38] (26 seconds)
And that's the kind of parent that we're called to be. We're called to be the kind of parent that is full of encouragement for our kids. The kind of parent that can open up a child's heart because we're encouraging them. It helps them to think, I can do this. Now, Paul isn't saying that if you parent perfectly and everything goes well in your life that you're going to follow Jesus. We can't control that. [00:50:02] (23 seconds)
But for who God's going to make them to be. Psalm 127 says this. It says, Children are a heritage from the Lord. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one's youth. That's life -giving. [00:50:35] (14 seconds)
And I remember my mom told me this once. She said, You'll never know how much I love you until you have children of your own and you love them like I love you. [00:50:49] (11 seconds)
If you're a parent, you know that's true. That you'll never know. Your kids will never know how much you love them. And listen, I'm not claiming to be the perfect parent. I've messed up a lot. I don't deserve the kids I have. I've had to ask for forgiveness over and over at different times. [00:51:00] (16 seconds)
But you know, at the end of my life, knowing that I'll spend my eternity with my Savior, if I have the love and the respect of my children and my wife, I'll consider that I've had a life well lived. So there it is. Husbands, kids, wives. [00:51:22] (19 seconds)
And this is a place where a lot of us can relate. Because a lot of us spend a lot of times in our jobs. And we have bosses. And we often wonder if what we do really, truly matters. [00:51:52] (11 seconds)
Paul says this to employees. He says, he starts by addressing the slaves. And in the Roman time, these households served. They were household servants. He talks to these people in the same section. He talks to parents and to children. Because Paul tells them, he says, slaves, obey your earthly master in everything that you do. [00:52:10] (20 seconds)
Verse 23 says, whatever you do, work it with all your heart. As if you're working for the Lord and not for men. Ecclesiastes 9 .10 says, whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might. Proverbs 16 .3, commit to the Lord whatever you do. 1 Corinthians 10 .31, whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. [00:52:57] (21 seconds)
like you're serving Jesus. When that client is difficult to deal with and you've got to call them back, call them back like Jesus is on the phone with you. That's the perspective we've got to think about. Maybe your boss is tough. Maybe the tasks are draining. Maybe no one appreciates you. Maybe no one notices you, but Jesus does. [00:53:19] (19 seconds)
And that's what Paul's getting at. We don't work to impress people. We work with our heart out of reference for God. Jesus gave us all for us. We've got to do our best for him because your work has eternal value. Working for Jesus brings peace. It brings motivation. It brings reward. Verse 24 says you'll receive an inheritance. You'll receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. If it is the Lord that you are serving. [00:53:54] (27 seconds)
You might mow the same yard, care for the same patients who won't help themselves, but Jesus sees what you're doing. He sees you. Maybe no one thanked you. Maybe the yard grew back again, but Jesus says your work counts. Paul adds a warning. He says anyone who does wrong will be repaid for wrong. There's no favoritism. Christians shouldn't, don't get a pass for lazy work. Jesus is, isn't impressed with people slacking off. As once was, as someone once said, the Christian shoemaker doesn't do his duty by putting shoes on, by putting crosses on shoes. They do it by making good shoes. [00:54:26] (41 seconds)
Colossians 4 .1 then turns the attention to bosses. It says masters provide your slaves with what is right and fair because you know you have a master in heaven. If you're a boss, if you're an employer, your employees matter to Christ. What you do matters. What's right and fair, you might ask. Well, remember, you're accountable. You're accountable to Christ for how you treat your people. Just like employees. Everyone has employees. The employers have to answer to Jesus as well. Treat your people how you'd want to be treated. Treat them how Jesus treats you. That's the heart of it. That's Jesus' words. With the measure you use, it will be measured to you. That's applied in your workplace. [00:55:07] (42 seconds)
The bottom line is Jesus is the Lord of the marketplace. He is Lord over Elon Musk. He is Lord over the Walmart manager. He is Lord over every office. He's Lord over every job site. Your workplaces may be messy. Teachers have to deal with boards and parents. Nurses have to juggle patients and doctors and HR. But the passage clearly brings it out. It says, do your job like Jesus is your boss. Treat others the way you want to be treated. That's loving God. And that's loving your neighbor. Even at work. [00:55:50] (35 seconds)
You're showing up and you're doing your job because he says it matters. So no matter what your job looks like, Jesus, do it for Jesus because he's the one that's worth it. [00:56:32] (11 seconds)
Or how things could have been different. But that's where we need to remember it's not easy. And change doesn't happen overnight. But God sees you. He sees every disappointment. And he will be there for you. One day we'll see the broken pieces of our lives. And we'll see that even those fit into his beautiful plan. And I know right now that's hard to grasp, right? [00:57:09] (23 seconds)
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