Introduction

A. When Jesus’ critics lined up with their questions, the Pharisees were first in line with their question on divorce (Matthew 19:1-6).

B. In response to their question, Jesus takes them back to the very beginning to show them what God intended for our homes.

Discussion

I. Let’s look at the individuals in this original model.

A. In the first home, there was a man and a woman (Genesis 1:27; 2:23).

B. Each of the individuals in this union served a specific function (Ephesians 6:4; 1 Timothy 5:8,14; Titus 2:4-5).

C. Man’s changes to God’s ideal have never benefited the home (Genesis 21; 29-30).

II. Next, let us look at the plan behind this prototype.

A. It was God’s plan for this family to bring children into the world (Genesis 1:28; Psalm 127:3-5; 1 Timothy 2:15).

B. It was God’s plan for children to leave (Genesis 2:23).

C. It was God’s plan for children to cleave to their spouses (Genesis 2:23; Matthew 19:6).

Conclusion

A. The home is special because God designed it to fulfill us and to teach us about our relationship with the Father and Christ’s relationship with the church (Ephesians 5:22-33).

B. When we listen to Jesus and follow God’s original plan, our homes will be happier, the church will be stronger, and the community will take notice.