Community Group Discussion Guides Articles
“Love and Respect”
February 13, 2011
SCRIPTURE: Ephesians 5:22-33 (esp. 5:33)
MAIN IDEA:
The main idea of today’s message focuses on communication within the marriage relationship. However, it is also important to understand that these principles apply in any relationship between different genders. The bottom line is an issue of the difference in the foundational element of value in relationships between men and women. For women, the fundamental value is that of love. For men, the fundamental value is that of respect. So, in working toward healthy marriages, it is critical that we learn to communicate these to each other. If we get this right in our marriages we will be on our way to a better marriage.
Men: learn how to communicate love, unconditional love, to your wife.
Women: learn how to communicate respect to your husband.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
1. Men: How do you feel about the standard for husbands in verses 25 and 28? Women: How do you feel about the standard for wives in verses 22 and 23?
2. In practical terms, what does it mean for a wife to submit to her husband? What implication does “Husbands, love your wives as Christ loved the church” have? (v.25)
3. How does the modern-day view of marriage compare to this passage?
4. In your own words, how would you explain the main goal of a Christian marriage?
5. Women, do you agree that love is a fundamental value for you? Share some ways in which you feel especially loved. Share ways in which love might be better communicated to you. (Men, take notes!)
6. Men, do you agree that respect is a fundamental value for you? Share some ways in which you feel especially respected. Share ways in which respect might be better communicated for you. (Women, take notes!)
7. The last 2 questions have helped us in the ongoing practice of studying our partner. What are some other ways that you have practiced this?
8. How much have inherited family patterns affected your marriage – whether they are communication issues, expectations or behavioral issues? How are you addressing those in your relationship?
