This Momentary Marriage by John Piper
Week 4: Chapter 3 — Forgiving and Forbearing
Read Chapter 3 of This Momentary Marriage. Key Scriptures: Colossians 3:12–14; Ephesians 4:32.
Previewing Week 4 of This Momentary Marriage
Read 3 of 8 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 12-week guide when you’re ready.
Every marriage is a covenant between two sinners — which means forgiveness and forbearance are not occasional acts of heroism but the daily oxygen of a lasting marriage.
Discussion Questions
8 questions1.Piper draws a distinction between forgiving and forbearing. What is the difference? When is each one called for in a marriage?
2.Piper grounds the call to forgive in the gospel: we forgive because we have been forgiven (Colossians 3:13; Ephesians 4:32). How does keeping the gospel in view — remembering the debt Christ has cancelled for us — change the emotional and spiritual texture of forgiving a spouse?
3.Forbearance means bearing with someone in their weakness or sin without requiring immediate change. Is there a difference between godly forbearance and unhealthy enabling? How do you know which is which?