Upside Down - Marriage as a Covenant
“Marriage was never meant to be temporary. It’s not a subscription you cancel; it’s a covenant you keep.” – Pastor Marty Parker
Marriage in today’s culture often feels disposable. But in this week’s message, Associate Pastor Marty Parker reminded us that marriage was designed by God to be something far greater — a covenant that reflects Christ’s enduring love for His church.
God’s Design for Marriage
Preaching from Matthew 5 and Matthew 19, Pastor Marty unpacked Jesus’ words about marriage and divorce. In a world where relationships can be treated as temporary, Jesus calls us back to the truth that marriage is a sacred covenant, not a contract.
A covenant is marked by faithfulness, sacrifice, and unconditional love — the same love God shows to us.
Marriage is a Covenant, Not a Subscription
Marriage is 100/100, sometimes it's 100/0
Seasons of Marriage
Every marriage goes through seasons:
Spring – joy, excitement, and growth
Summer – warmth and abundance
Fall – change and challenge
Winter – silence and testing
In each season, the covenant keeps the relationship rooted. Pastor Marty reminded couples to shut the door on the “D-word” (divorce) and to press into God’s sustaining grace, especially in winter seasons.
Keep the “D-Word” Out of Your Mouth
Covenant Love in Action
Covenant love is not about convenience; it’s about commitment. It means:
Giving sacrificially, even when it’s hard
Enduring trials with patience and grace
Celebrating your spouse as God’s gift to you
Reflecting Christ’s faithfulness in your relationship
God is a covenant-keeping God. His love doesn’t quit — and through Him, marriages can be restored, strengthened, and filled with joy.
Final Encouragement
Whether you are married, preparing for marriage, or healing from past hurt, this message offers hope. The same God who keeps His covenant with us can breathe life into your relationship and carry you through every season.
👉 Watch the full sermon on our YouTube channel to hear Pastor Marty’s encouragement and teaching in detail.
📖 Scripture References: Matthew 5:31–32, Matthew 19:1–9