When you were standing at the altar reciting your marriage vows, did you have any idea that marriage would be so complex? It probably didn’t take you long to understand that your spouse is not as much like you as you thought. But figuring them out is more than just an equation. Marriage is more than a science; it’s an art. And like any art form, requires an investment of time, focused study and the right tools.

If you need to soften some of the edges in your relationship, or want to brighten the landscape of your marriage, The Art of Marriage is for you. This 6-session marriage event allows you to experience God’s design for marriage from expert teachers and humorous vignettes. You’ll graduate in a few hours better educated about your marriage, your spouse and yourself. Block out time in your schedule to attend The Art of Marriage.

Friday and Saturday, February 22nd and 23rd at Monmouth Church of Christ, Matthew and Rachel Dowling will host, The Art of Marriage. Friday night’s session will last from 7:00-9:30pm and Saturday’s session will last from 9:00am to 4:30pm. Free childcare will be provided. Cost for the seminar is $40 per couple and $20 for singles. This includes lunch on Saturday, coffee and refreshments, and workbooks for each participant.

Here’s what is in store:

 
Would you like a more in-depth tour of The Art of Marriage? Here you go:

 
The Art of Marriage Itinerary:

Session 1: Love happens  (purpose of marriage)

  • God designed marriage and has a great plan in mind.
  • The primary purpose of marriage is to reflect God’s glory to a watching world.
  • It is important to receive your mate as God’s perfect gift for you.

Session 2: Love fades  (drift to isolation)

  • Couples naturally drift toward isolation.
  • Our differences and weaknesses push us apart.
  • Sin has affected every marriage.
  • The gospel brings healing and reconciliation
  • Couples must learn to walk by the power of the Holy Spirit in marriage.

Session 3: Love dances (roles)

  • God designed different responsibilities for men and women in marriage.
  • Though their responsibilities are different, men and women are still equal in value.
  • God calls men to sacrificially love and lead their wives.
  • God calls women to respect and support their husbands.

Session 4: Love interrupted  (communication)

  • Conflict is common to all marriages.
  • The goal is not to be conflict-free but to learn to handle conflict correctly when it occurs.
  • Healthy conflict resolution occurs when couples are willing to seek and grant forgiveness.

Session 5: Love sizzles  (romance and sex)

  • God created sex and has a wonderful design in mind.
  • A satisfying sex life is the result of a satisfying marriage relationship.
  • The ultimate purpose of sex is to bring pleasure and glory to God.

Session 6: Love always  (legacy)

  • To leave a godly legacy, we must think about the impact of our lives on future generations.
  • Our hope for leaving a lasting legacy is through the gospel of Jesus Christ.
  • Leaving a godly legacy requires putting a stake in the ground.