Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas
Week 2: Chapter 1 — The Refining Power of Marriage
Read Chapter 1 of Sacred Marriage. Key passages: Romans 5:3–5; James 1:2–4; Proverbs 27:17
Previewing Week 2 of Sacred Marriage
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 13-week guide when you’re ready.
Thomas opens by arguing that marriage holds up a mirror we cannot put down — and the reflection is often humbling; let these questions help you look honestly into that mirror.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Thomas uses the image of marriage as a refining fire rather than a comfortable nest. In your own words, what does he mean? How does that metaphor change what you expect marriage to feel like?
2.He cites the way that living in close proximity to another person exposes character flaws we could hide when we were single. Can you identify one or two things about yourself that marriage has brought to the surface that surprised you?
3.Thomas references the Puritan understanding of marriage as a school of virtue. What "lessons" has your marriage been teaching you lately — even if you have been a reluctant student?