How can we apply Jesus' question in Mark 10:3 to modern relationships? Framing the Question “‘What did Moses command you?’” (Mark 10:3) When the Pharisees tested Jesus about divorce, He directed them back to God’s revelation through Moses. The implication is clear: Scripture—not culture, feelings, or convenience—sets the standard for relationships. Returning to the Word First • God’s design predates culture (Genesis 2:24; Mark 10:6-9). • God’s commands are authoritative, sufficient, and good (Psalm 19:7-11). • Obedience brings blessing, while ignoring Scripture brings confusion (James 1:22-25). How to Ask “What Does Scripture Command?” Today Dating and courtship • Purity before marriage (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5). • Honoring fellow believers as siblings until marriage (1 Timothy 5:1-2). Engagement • Prioritizing prayer and premarital discipleship (Proverbs 15:22). • Verifying shared faith and purpose (2 Corinthians 6:14). Marriage • Lifelong covenant between one man and one woman (Mark 10:9). • Mutual submission and sacrificial love (Ephesians 5:21-33). • Daily forgiveness (Colossians 3:13). Parenting • Teaching God’s Word diligently (Deuteronomy 6:5-7). • Modeling grace and discipline (Ephesians 6:4). Friendships • Choosing companions who sharpen faith (Proverbs 13:20). • Practicing loyal, truth-filled love (Proverbs 27:6, 17). Conflict and Reconciliation • Going first to the person, not to others (Matthew 18:15). • Pursuing peace as far as it depends on you (Romans 12:18). Practical Steps 1. When a relationship issue arises, pause and open the Bible before reacting. 2. Identify clear commands or principles related to the situation. 3. Submit feelings and preferences to Scripture’s authority. 4. Seek wise, biblically grounded counsel if commands seem unclear. 5. Pray for the Spirit’s power to obey, then act in faith. Key Scriptural Anchors • Love defined: “Love is patient, love is kind…” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). • Greatest commandments: Love God wholly; love neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:37-39). • Christlike example: “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church…” (Ephesians 5:25). • Covenant permanence: “Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate” (Mark 10:9). Living Out the Question By making “What did Scripture command?” our reflexive response in every relational decision, we trade shifting cultural winds for the solid foundation of God’s timeless truth. In doing so, we honor Christ, bless others, and experience relationships as He intended—from dating to lifelong marriage and every connection in between. |
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