Reading: Genesis 2:19-25, Deuteronomy 24:1-4, Westminster Confession of Faith 24
Text: Mark 10:1-12
One area of life where godliness is most needed is the marriage relationship. When and where marriages are healthy and strong then families, churches and communities are more likely to be healthy and strong. The confession points this out where it says that the purpose of marriage is for the mutual health of husband and wife and the increase of mankind with a legitimate offspring and of the church with a holy offspring and for the prevention of immorality. There is a lot hinging on the divine institution of marriage. In Mark 10 Jesus encourages true piety in marriage.

Outline

A tale of two pieties
The need for true piety in the marriage relationship
The Pharisees test Jesus “Is it true…?”
Something indecent?
A contemporary discussion
The message of the gospel
The real problem; hard hearts

Forgiveness and reconciliation
One flesh
Ephesians 5

Conclusion
Marry in the lord, be soft hearted, practice piety