THE HARBOR - Services Sundays at 9:00 & 11:00 AM

The Power of Marriage: More Than We Imagined

Based on the sermon by Pastor Jeff Maness on February 2, 2025. Watch/listen to the full message by clicking here.
Marriage is one of the most beautiful and challenging gifts God has given us. In a world where relationships often struggle under the weight of unrealistic expectations, Jesus offers a vision for marriage that is radically different. It’s not about perfection—it’s about power. A perfect marriage may never exist, but one full of God’s power absolutely can.

In Matthew 19, Jesus teaches on marriage, divorce, and remarriage, and His words leave even HIs closest disciples so shocked they said:

"If this is the case, it is better not to marry!" (Matthew 19:10)

That’s how high Jesus set the bar. And yet, He didn’t give this teaching to burden us, but to offer us hope. Through His strength, marriage is not just possible—it is powerful.

The Connecting Power of Marriage

Jesus says that in marriage, "the two are united into one" (Matthew 19:5). This is more than a legal agreement or a romantic bond—it is a divine connection. God takes two ones—adds Himself—and they become one, fused together at the deepest level.

This is why marriage is deeply fulfilling and divorce is profoundly painful and destructive. When two people become one, they share in each other’s joys and struggles, victories and wounds. This connection is meant to bring strength and security, but when broken, it can leave deep, deep scars.

For those who have experienced divorce or brokenness in relationships, Jesus’ words are not meant to condemn but to acknowledge the reality of the pain. He knows the hurt it causes and the healing we need. And in that, there is grace. If you carry wounds from a past relationship, know this: God sees you, loves you, and offers restoration.

The Continuing Power of Marriage

Marriage is not about two perfect people coming together; it’s about two broken people learning to rely on the power of Christ. Even the strongest marriages face trials, and it’s in those moments that we see how desperately we need God’s strength.

The truth is, no spouse can complete us—only Jesus can. When we expect our partner to be our everything, we set ourselves up for disappointment. But when we invite God into our marriage, He gives us the power to continue, even when things are difficult.

There are couples who have endured unimaginable pain—betrayal, hardship, even seasons of hopelessness—but by God’s grace, they have seen restoration. That same power is available to us today. If your marriage is struggling, don’t give up. Seek help, lean into prayer, and trust that God is still working.

"I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God’s power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead..." (Ephesians 1:19-20)

If God’s power can raise the dead, it can resurrect a broken marriage.

The Conforming Power of Marriage

Ultimately, marriage is not just about our happiness—it’s about holiness. Jesus tells us that some choose to remain single for the sake of God’s Kingdom (Matthew 19:12), but whether single or married, our calling is the same: to reflect Christ.

Marriage is one of God’s tools for shaping us into His image. It teaches us patience, forgiveness, and selflessness. It reveals our weaknesses and forces us to depend on His grace. The goal is not just to have a good marriage, but to glorify God through it.

Whether you are married, single, divorced, or in a season of waiting, your purpose remains the same—to seek first the Kingdom of God. When we align our lives with His will, we find the power to love, to endure, and to be transformed.

A Time of Reflection

Wherever you are in your journey—whether celebrating a strong marriage, struggling in a difficult season, or healing from past wounds—take a moment to reflect.

  • If you are married, how can you invite God’s power into your relationship?

  • If you are single, how can you use this season to pursue God’s purpose for your life?

  • If you have experienced brokenness in relationships, how can you allow God’s healing to restore and refuel you?

God’s love is bigger than our failures, and His power is greater than our weaknesses. A perfect marriage may never exist, but one full of His power absolutely can.

No Comments