The importance of Christian courtship
Text
Psa 37:3-5; Prov 3:5-7
Aims
to expound the concept of courtship in Christian marriage planning,
to analyse the areas of concentrations during the period and
to discuss the spiritual values to adopt in courtship.
Introduction
The Bible passages today encourage us to always commit our ways into the hand of God for proper and successful ending. With this, we would realise the importance of courtship in marriage planning. Courtship is a period of relationship between a man and a woman in which they seek to determine if it is God’s will for them to marry each other. During courtship, intending couples are more exposed to each other's backgrounds and are accustomed to each other's habits. It is a period for alignment of purposes, sharing thoughts, feelings, aspirations, dreams, beliefs, ideals and values in other to test each other’s maturity, character and personality and to determine whether or not the couple really love each other and are seriously ready for marriage. However, it is very important to note that Christian courtship is totally different from dating which is factored on selfish goals of having fun and enjoying romantic attachments; rather, Christian courtship thrives on godliness, holiness, transparency and honesty through engagement in joint prayer, Bible study and church services together to strengthen their faith.
Study guide
In line with our Bible passages, explain courtship and its importance to Christian marriage.
What are the main purposes and focus in Christian courtship?
Diligently study Rom 12:9-12 in line with the introduction and differentiate godly courtship from lustful dating.
If the couple discovered they are not compatible during courtship and then ended their marriage plans; does that means they have failed? Discus in the context of Rom 5:1-5 and 2Cor 12:8-10.
Conclusion
Since Christian courtship is a journey that allows couple to make decisions of faith, love, commitment to each other and commitment to God; it is therefore necessary to thread the path in ways that will bring honour and glory to the name of God and to entire Christendom.
Food for thought
It is better to discover yourself before marriage than after marriage.
Memory verse
Psa 37:5 “Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, And He shall bring it to pass”.