One Man, One Woman, by Grace, Till Death | John Piper

Deep Dive into All That Jesus Commanded by John Piper - What God Has Joined Together Let No Man Separate - One Man, One Woman, by Grace, Till DeathJesus's teachings profoundly redefined expectations surrounding marriage and singleness, challenging traditional views with radical standards. His disciples were bewildered by how strict his standards were for marriage, noting that if there was "no back door" to marriage, it might be "better not to marry." Jesus did not lower these high standards, but instead emphasized that the ability to remain single or to stay in a difficult marriage are both a gift of God, a work of divine grace. He illustrated this through the concept of "eunuchs for the kingdom," signifying that God provides grace for those in singleness, whether by circumstance or choice.Furthermore, Jesus clarified that marriage is not ultimate. It is an ordinance only for this present age and does not exist in the resurrection. This eternal perspective underscores why marriage "does not and should not meet all our needs" and should not be an idol. Jesus himself is for eternity, and how one lives in both marriage and singleness should demonstrate if He is our supreme treasure.Crucially, not all sins are unforgivable. While acts like divorce, remarriage, murder, or homosexual behavior are serious sins, they are forgivable through Jesus's blood and repentance. The sole exception is the unforgivable sin, or "blasphemy against the Holy Spirit." This is defined as persistent and ultimate resistance to the Holy Spirit’s convicting work, leading to a hardened heart and an inability to repent. Forgiveness for other sins requires acknowledging them as sin, renouncing them, and seeking to make things right.Even marriages that began sinfully, such as remarriage after an illegitimate divorce, are not beyond God's grace. Through repentance, forgiveness based on Jesus's blood, and the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit, such unions can be consecrated to God and become a means of grace, potentially turning into a great blessing. This demonstrates God's ability to work through and redeem imperfect beginnings.Reformed Theologian GPT: https://chat.openai.com/g/g-XXwzX1gnv-reformed-theologianhttps://buymeacoffee.com/edi2730