THE FATHER’S INSTITUTE (TFI) BASIC CLASS 112

COURSE: CHRISTIAN COURTSHIP AND MARRIAGE TEXT: Genesis 2: 18 - 25, 1Corinthians 7: 1 - 5

OBJECTIVE To understand Christian courtship and marriage.

INTRODUCTION  Marriage is an institution established by God for man’s benefit and for His own purpose. Marriage was meant to be happy and fulfilling when it was established in Eden and God’s interest in marriage is the raising of Godly seeds. Marriage is a covenant relationship, not just a promise. Loyalty is therefore required in fulfilling the condition of the covenant so we can derive the full blessing of marriage.

PURPOSE OF MARRIAGE

As help meet for man - Gen.2:18  God is a God of purpose – Ecc.3:1 As help meet for man - Gen.2:18 For Spiritual Reinforcement – to give added strength - Deut. 32:30 For Companionship – Ecc.4:9-10 For Unity Mk.10:7, -Gen.2:24 For Procreation; child bearing – Gen.1:28, 1Tim.5:14 To avoid fornication 1Cor.7:2

FINDING A MARRIAGE PARTNER Desire a partner - Prov.10:24 Make yourself fit to be found – Ruth 3 : 3a Ask God in prayer – Prov18:22, Matt 7 : 7 Apply the deep sleep concept i.e. go to rest {Phil.4:6}. No anxiety Open your eyes – both spiritually and physically. How? Spiritually – be sensitive to God and be able to hear what God has to say. Physically - locate someone who you can appreciate and love. Make your intention known at the right time.

PRE- REQUISITE FOR CHOOSING A PARTNER Must be born again Must be agreeable : Spiritually Potentials – Identified and shared Visions and aspirations Must be medically compatible (Need to know your blood group and genotype)

CHRISTIAN COURTSHIP (Matt. 1:18-19) This is the period between when a man and a woman agree to marry and the actual joining in marriage. (differentiate between Christian courtship and dating) It is a period meant to understand each other, time to plan together, talk about visions, potentials etc. It is time to be open to each other and be acquainted together.

CHRISTIAN COURTSHIP (Matt. 1:18-19) In The Father’s House a minimum of Six (6) months is recommended. A relationship that evidently will not result in a good marriage should be called off. Don’t you think you can change anyone, only the Holy Spirit. Therefore, A broken courtship is better than a broken marriage - divorce.

ENGAGEMENT (Ruth 4:1-4) Engagement is the formal / public introduction of each other to parents, relatives and friends. Engagement does not over rule church wedding. Plan within your resources – Prov.22:7

CONCLUSION Christianity is about changed life – so make a success of your relationship that will culminate in marriage. There is no room for sexual intercourse or anything that will/may lead to it before marriage keep the bed undefiled (1Thess.5:22.) Abstain from all appearances of evil.