Thinking Through Weddings

Practical Shepherding: Trench Talk

How does the pastor approach the cultural expectations of weddings from a biblical perspective? Should a pastor be active or passive concerning a couple’s expectations for their wedding? In what cases should a wedding be regarded as a service of worship? What cultural elements are acceptable/unacceptable in a Christian wedding? Should a pastor conduct the wedding of two unbelievers? How long should a wedding sermon be? What music/songs are appropriate for a wedding ceremony? Should a pastor require couples whom he marries to undergo pre-marital counseling? Must a pastor agree to perform any marriage ceremony without exception? Should a church include guidelines in their constitution to regulate how marriages are conducted? Listen as Brian and Jim discuss these issues and more in this episode.

RESOURCES:

The Pastor’s Ministry: Biblical Priorities for Faithful Shepherds

How does a pastor determine whether he can conduct a wedding?

How does a pastor approach pre-marital counseling?

How does a pastor determine if he could/should conduct a certain wedding?

What is a good template for pre-marital counseling?

What are the boundary lines to determine whether a pastor can/should conduct a wedding?

How does a pastor shepherd a young couple he married 6 months ago?