This Momentary Marriage: A Powerful Reflection on Love, Commitment and the Sacrament of Matrimony

This Momentary Marriage by John Piper is a profound exploration of the biblical foundation for marriage, emphasizing its temporary nature in light of eternity.

This Momentary Marriage is a profound book that challenges the traditional concept of marriage. Written by John Piper, a prominent Christian pastor and author, the book offers a fresh perspective on what it means to be married. From the very beginning, Piper captures the reader's attention with his eloquent writing style and thought-provoking insights. Throughout the pages, he tackles difficult questions and issues that many couples face in their relationships. With his unique blend of theological and practical advice, Piper provides readers with a comprehensive guide on how to build a strong and lasting marriage. Whether you are newlywed or have been married for years, this book is sure to inspire and encourage you in your marital journey. So, let's delve deeper into the world of This Momentary Marriage and discover what makes it such a powerful and transformative work.

One of the most striking aspects of This Momentary Marriage is Piper's emphasis on the importance of God in marriage. Unlike many other books on the subject, Piper firmly believes that marriage is not just a human institution but a divine one. He argues that God created marriage as a reflection of his own love for humanity and that it is only through a deep understanding of this love that couples can truly thrive. Throughout the book, Piper weaves together biblical passages and personal anecdotes to illustrate his points, making a compelling case for the centrality of God in marriage. Whether you consider yourself religious or not, his insights are sure to challenge your assumptions about what it means to be married and what role spirituality plays in our lives.

Another key theme of This Momentary Marriage is the idea of covenantal commitment. Piper argues that marriage is not just a contract between two people, but a covenant made before God. This means that when we say I do, we are making a lifelong promise to love and cherish our spouse, no matter what. While this may sound daunting, Piper believes that covenantal commitment is the key to a successful marriage. He writes, The essence of marriage is a covenant, a commitment to be together for better or for worse until death do us part. So marriage is not mainly about prospering economically; it is mainly about displaying the covenant-keeping love between Christ and his church. Through his eloquent prose and powerful arguments, Piper shows us how to embrace this commitment and build a strong foundation for our marriages.

Of course, no marriage is without its challenges, and Piper does not shy away from addressing these head-on. Throughout the book, he tackles difficult issues such as communication, conflict resolution, and sexual intimacy with compassion and insight. Rather than offering quick fixes or easy solutions, Piper encourages couples to dig deep and confront the root causes of their problems. He writes, The point is not to eradicate all conflict but to learn how to fight in a way that honors God and serves one another. With his practical advice and biblical wisdom, Piper provides readers with the tools they need to navigate the ups and downs of married life.

One of the most powerful aspects of This Momentary Marriage is its emphasis on the eternal significance of our relationships. Piper argues that marriage is not just about our own happiness and fulfillment, but about reflecting God's love to the world around us. He writes, Marriage is meant by God to put that gospel reality on display in the world. That is why we are married. That is why all married people are married, even when they don't know and embrace this gospel. Whether you consider yourself religious or not, Piper's insights remind us of the profound impact our relationships can have on those around us.

Overall, This Momentary Marriage is a must-read for anyone interested in building a strong and lasting marriage. With its compelling insights, practical advice, and profound theology, Piper's book is sure to inspire and challenge readers of all backgrounds and beliefs. So, whether you are newlywed or have been married for years, take the time to dive into this transformative work and discover what it means to truly love and cherish your spouse.

This Momentary Marriage: A Reflection on Christian Marriage

Marriage is a sacred institution that has been practiced for centuries. It is a union between two individuals who vow to love and cherish each other till death do them part. In today's society, the meaning and significance of marriage have been diluted and distorted. This is why it is important to reflect on Christian marriage and what it entails. This Momentary Marriage is a book written by John Piper that offers an in-depth analysis of marriage from a biblical perspective. In this article, we will explore some of the key themes in this book.

The Purpose of Marriage

According to Piper, the ultimate purpose of marriage is to glorify God. He argues that marriage is not primarily about our happiness or fulfillment but about reflecting the relationship between Christ and the Church. As Christians, we believe that Christ loved the Church sacrificially, and in the same way, husbands are called to love their wives sacrificially. Wives, on the other hand, are called to submit to their husbands as the Church submits to Christ. This mutual submission and sacrificial love are meant to reflect the love of God to the world.

The Meaning of Covenant

Piper emphasizes the importance of understanding marriage as a covenant rather than a contract. He argues that a covenant is a binding agreement that is based on trust and faithfulness, whereas a contract is a legal agreement that is based on mutual benefit. In marriage, the covenantal bond between husband and wife is meant to be unbreakable. This means that divorce should not be an option except in cases of infidelity or abandonment. The covenantal nature of marriage also means that both parties are committed to working through any challenges that may arise in the relationship.

The Role of Gender

Piper also explores the role of gender in marriage. He argues that men and women are equal in value and dignity but have different roles to play in the marriage relationship. Husbands are called to be the leaders in the relationship, while wives are called to be helpers. This does not mean that the husband is superior to the wife or that the wife is inferior to the husband. Rather, it means that both parties are called to use their unique strengths to serve each other and glorify God.

The Importance of Intimacy

Piper also emphasizes the importance of intimacy in marriage. He argues that the physical aspect of marriage is not just a means of procreation but a way of expressing love and intimacy between husband and wife. He warns against the dangers of pornography and adultery, which can destroy the intimacy and trust between spouses. Instead, he encourages couples to cultivate a deep and meaningful sexual relationship that is rooted in love and commitment.

The Role of Children

Another theme in This Momentary Marriage is the role of children in marriage. Piper argues that children are a blessing from God and that parents have a responsibility to raise them in the fear and love of God. He encourages couples to view their children as a gift and to prioritize their relationship with them. However, he also warns against idolizing children or making them the center of the marriage relationship. Instead, he encourages couples to prioritize their relationship with each other and to model a healthy marriage for their children to emulate.

The Reality of Sin

Piper acknowledges that marriage is not always easy and that sin can cause conflict and division in the relationship. He encourages couples to be honest about their struggles and to seek forgiveness and reconciliation when necessary. He also warns against the temptation to blame one's spouse for the problems in the marriage and encourages couples to take responsibility for their own actions and attitudes.

The Hope of Redemption

Despite the challenges that couples may face in marriage, Piper offers hope in the power of God to redeem and restore relationships. He encourages couples to rely on God's grace and to seek his guidance in their marriage. He also emphasizes the importance of prayer and the need for couples to pray together regularly. Ultimately, he reminds us that our hope is not in our own strength or abilities but in the power of God to transform our hearts and our relationships.

The Permanence of Marriage

Finally, Piper emphasizes the permanence of marriage. He argues that marriage is not just a temporary arrangement but a lifelong commitment. He warns against the dangers of divorce and encourages couples to work through their problems rather than giving up on the relationship. He also emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and the need for couples to extend grace to each other.

Conclusion

This Momentary Marriage offers a powerful reflection on Christian marriage. It reminds us that marriage is a sacred covenant between two individuals who are called to love and serve each other sacrificially. It emphasizes the importance of intimacy, gender roles, children, and the reality of sin. It also offers hope in the power of God to redeem and restore relationships. Ultimately, This Momentary Marriage is a call to take marriage seriously and to view it as a means of glorifying God and furthering his kingdom.

Introduction: Setting the Tone for a Christian Marriage

In This Momentary Marriage, John Piper presents a unique perspective on marriage as a reflection of the gospel and the union between Christ and his church. He argues that marriage is not simply about finding companionship or fulfilling sexual needs but is meant to shape us into more Christlike individuals and prepare us for eternity. With this foundation in mind, Piper explores various aspects of marriage, offering practical advice and insights for building a strong and lasting relationship with our spouses.

The Purpose of Marriage: Shaping Our Lives for Eternity

According to Piper, the purpose of marriage is not just about satisfying our personal desires but is ultimately to shape us into the image of Christ. Through the challenges and joys of marriage, we learn to love sacrificially, forgive freely, and serve humbly. These qualities are essential for our growth as Christians and prepare us for our eternal life with Christ.

Love and Respect: The Foundation of a Healthy Marriage

To build a strong and lasting marriage, Piper emphasizes the importance of both spouses showing love and respect towards one another. Without mutual respect, marriages are likely to fail. Couples must learn to communicate effectively, listen actively, and appreciate each other's strengths and weaknesses. By prioritizing their relationship and treating each other with kindness and compassion, couples can build a foundation of trust and intimacy.

Submission and Sacrifice: The Role of Husband and Wife

Piper delves into the biblical concept of submission, arguing that it is not about dominance or inferiority but is rather a willingness to humbly serve one another. Both husbands and wives are called to submit to each other out of reverence for Christ and to sacrificially love one another as Christ loved the church. This means putting each other's needs ahead of our own and making sacrifices for the good of the relationship.

Sex and Intimacy: God's Design for Marriage

Piper emphasizes the importance of sexual intimacy within marriage, stressing that it is a gift from God meant to be enjoyed within the context of marriage. Couples must learn to communicate openly about their sexual needs and desires, while also respecting each other's boundaries and preferences. By prioritizing their physical relationship, couples can deepen their emotional connection and build a foundation of trust and intimacy.

Faith and Forgiveness: Overcoming Challenges in Marriage

Piper acknowledges that no marriage is perfect, and couples will inevitably face challenges and hardships. He emphasizes the need for faith and forgiveness as crucial tools to navigate these difficulties. By keeping Christ at the center of their relationship and relying on his strength and grace, couples can overcome even the most significant obstacles and emerge stronger and more united.

The Importance of Community: Building Healthy Relationships Outside of Marriage

While marriage is a central relationship in our lives, Piper also stresses the importance of building healthy relationships with family, friends, and other members of our community. These relationships provide support, accountability, and encouragement, helping us to grow as individuals and as couples. By investing in these relationships, we can strengthen our marriage and deepen our connection to God.

The Call to Parenting: Raising Children in a Christian Household

Piper discusses the challenges and rewards of parenting, emphasizing the importance of raising children within a Christian household. Parents must model Christlike behavior and teach their children to love God and others. By creating a home environment that prioritizes faith, love, and service, parents can give their children the foundation they need to flourish as Christians.

Marriage as a Witness: Spreading the Gospel through Our Relationships

Piper argues that our marriages have the power to be a witness to others of God's love and grace. When we prioritize our relationship with our spouse and reflect Christ's love in our interactions, we can be a powerful testimony to others. By putting Christ at the center of our marriage and treating our spouse with respect, love, and sacrifice, we can demonstrate the transformative power of the gospel.

A Long-Term View of Marriage: Cultivating a Lasting Love

Finally, Piper stresses the importance of taking a long-term view of marriage. Rather than focusing on temporary desires or conflicts, we should be committed to cultivating a lasting love that reflects Christ's love for his church. This means prioritizing our relationship with our spouse, investing in our spiritual growth, and continually seeking to deepen our connection to one another and to God. With this perspective, we can build a marriage that lasts a lifetime and prepares us for the eternal life to come.

This Momentary Marriage: A Christian Perspective

Point of View

As a Christian, I believe that marriage is a sacred institution established by God. It is a covenant between a man and a woman that reflects the relationship between Christ and his church. In this context, John Piper's book, This Momentary Marriage, offers an insightful and thought-provoking perspective on the purpose and meaning of marriage.

Pros of This Momentary Marriage

- Piper emphasizes the importance of putting God at the center of the marriage relationship. He argues that a God-centered marriage is the key to a fulfilling and joyful union.- The book provides practical advice on how to cultivate a strong and healthy marriage. Piper's insights on communication, forgiveness, and intimacy are grounded in biblical principles and are relevant to couples of all ages and stages of marriage.- This Momentary Marriage challenges cultural assumptions about marriage and offers a refreshing perspective on what it means to be married. Piper's focus on the eternal significance of marriage encourages couples to prioritize their commitment to each other and to view their marriage as an opportunity to glorify God.

Cons of This Momentary Marriage

- Some readers may find Piper's writing style to be overly theological or academic. The book is heavily rooted in Scripture, which may be challenging for readers who are not familiar with Christian theology.- This Momentary Marriage is written from a complementarian perspective, which views marriage as a partnership in which the husband is the head of the household and the wife is called to submit to his leadership. This perspective may not resonate with all readers.

Table Information

Keywords	Definition
Marriage	A covenant relationship between a man and a woman that reflects the relationship between Christ and his church.
God-centered	An approach to marriage that prioritizes God's will and seeks to glorify him through the union.
Biblical principles	The teachings and values found in the Bible that guide Christian beliefs and practices.
Complementarian	A perspective on gender roles that views men and women as equal but with distinct roles and responsibilities within marriage and the church.

In conclusion, This Momentary Marriage offers a compelling perspective on the purpose and meaning of marriage from a Christian perspective. While some readers may find the book challenging due to its theological focus and complementarian perspective, its emphasis on cultivating a God-centered marriage and practical advice for couples make it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to strengthen their marriage.

Closing Message: This Momentary Marriage

Thank you for taking the time to read this article on This Momentary Marriage. We hope that it has been an enlightening and informative read for you. Our aim was to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the book, and we hope that we have achieved that goal.

As we wrap up this article, we would like to reiterate the importance of understanding marriage in the context of God's plan. John Piper's book, This Momentary Marriage, does an excellent job of exploring this topic and providing readers with valuable insights into what it means to have a Christ-centered marriage.

Throughout the book, Piper emphasizes the importance of viewing marriage as a covenant between two people and God. He also stresses the need for couples to put Christ at the center of their relationship and to prioritize their love for Him above all else.

One of the key takeaways from the book is the idea that marriage is not primarily about our happiness or fulfillment but rather about glorifying God. When we view marriage through this lens, we are better able to navigate the challenges and difficulties that inevitably arise in any relationship.

Another important aspect of the book is the emphasis on the role of forgiveness in marriage. Piper argues that forgiveness is essential for any healthy relationship and that it is a reflection of the forgiveness that God offers us through Christ.

Overall, This Momentary Marriage is a powerful and thought-provoking book that challenges readers to think deeply about the meaning and purpose of marriage. Whether you are a newlywed or have been married for many years, there is much to be gained from reading this book and reflecting on its teachings.

We encourage you to consider picking up a copy of the book and reading it for yourself. It is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of what it means to have a Christ-centered marriage.

Thank you once again for reading this article. We hope that it has been a helpful and informative read for you. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to us. We would love to hear from you!

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