|
  |
"Marriage is not
simply the next step after falling in love. Marriage is a calling from
God, a lifelong mission of service and caring and ministry to another
human being - seeking to be, on God's behalf, a companion and helper to
another."
(Adam Hamilton) |
|
REQUIRED STUDY: In his latest
book, which is accompanied by an instructional
video, Adam Hamilton provides thoughtful and
inspiring biblical insight and perspectives on
love, marriage and sex. The
book begins with a discussion of creation; then
the topics of differences between men and women,
transitions in marriage, unhealthy marital
habits, sexual intimacy, faithfulness, and
relationships with Jesus Christ are developed,
and each chapter is related to a biblical
passage. Perhaps the
most beneficial sources for Hamilton's material
come, first, from an authentic understanding of
the lessons he has learned from his own marriage
and, secondly, from an interview process in his
church that provided 2500 responses on the topic
of marriage, love and sex. In addition to
the content provided by Hamilton, the personal
reflection exercise at the end of each chapter
enables the material to be used readily by
engaged couples.
|
The topics are
timely, precise, and engaging, and the format of
the reflections helps engaged couples quickly
and deliberately absorb the information about
marriage, about the scriptures and about
relationships. In a time when
the cultural understanding (and even definition
of) marriage is shifting, Hamilton’s book is a
must read. As he states “Marriage is not
simply the next step after falling in love.
Marriage is serious business.” (Page 21) This
book is serious work, which provides insight,
instruction and challenge to couples desiring to
build a healthy, sound marriage.
Premarital counseling is an
important commitment for engaged couples who
want to learn more about their strengths and
weaknesses, as well as, the
importance of communication skills. Three
counseling sessions with the Pastor
are required of
all couples desiring to be married at Chappell
Hill United Methodist.
|