New Testament Wedding Readings

The New Testament is replete with beautiful and meaningful passages that can be used as wedding readings. These readings offer guidance, wisdom, and inspiration for couples as they embark on their new life together.

In the book of Ephesians, Paul exhorts husbands to love their wives "as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her" (5:25). This passage sets a high standard for husbands, calling them to sacrificial love and devotion.

Other popular New Testament wedding readings include:

New Testament Wedding Readings

The New Testament is a rich source of beautiful and meaningful passages that can be used as wedding readings. These readings offer guidance, wisdom, and inspiration for couples as they embark on their new life together.

• Love one another
• Be devoted to each other
• Be patient and kind
• Forgive one another
• Pray together
• Serve one another
• Rejoice with one another
• Bear one another's burdens
• Grow in love together

These are just a few of the many beautiful and meaningful New Testament wedding readings that couples can choose from. By incorporating these readings into their wedding ceremony, couples can set a strong foundation for their marriage and invite God's blessing upon their union.

Love one another

The command to love one another is one of the most important and repeated commands in the New Testament. It is a command that applies to all Christians, but it is especially important for husbands and wives. In the book of Ephesians, Paul writes, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her" (5:25). This verse sets a high standard for husbands, calling them to sacrificial love and devotion.

For wives, the command to love their husbands is found in the book of Titus. Paul writes, "Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior" (2:5-6). This verse does not mean that wives are inferior to their husbands, but rather that they are to respect and support their husbands' leadership in the home.

Both husbands and wives are called to love one another unconditionally. This means loving each other even when it is difficult, even when the other person does not deserve it. It means being patient, kind, and forgiving. It means putting the other person's needs before your own. It means sacrificing for the other person's well-being.

The command to love one another is a challenging one, but it is also a beautiful one. When husbands and wives love each other in the way that Christ loves the church, they create a strong and lasting marriage. They create a marriage that is built on mutual respect, support, and love.

In addition to the passages mentioned above, there are many other New Testament verses that speak about the importance of love in marriage. Here are a few examples:

Be devoted to each other

The command to be devoted to each other is found in the book of Ephesians, where Paul writes, "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ" (5:21). This verse is often interpreted as a call for wives to submit to their husbands, but it actually applies to both husbands and wives. The Greek word for "submit" (hupotasso) means "to place under," and it can be used in a variety of contexts, including military, political, and social relationships. In the context of marriage, it means that husbands and wives are to be mutually supportive and respectful of each other's needs and desires.

For husbands, the command to be devoted to their wives means that they are to love and cherish them as Christ loves the church. This means being patient, kind, and forgiving. It means putting their wives' needs before their own. It means sacrificing for their wives' well-being. It means being a servant-leader in the home.

For wives, the command to be devoted to their husbands means that they are to respect and support their husbands' leadership in the home. This does not mean that wives are inferior to their husbands, but rather that they are to recognize their husbands' God-given role as the head of the family. It means being supportive of their husbands' decisions, even when they do not agree with them. It means being a helpmeet to their husbands, working alongside them to build a strong and lasting marriage.

When husbands and wives are devoted to each other, they create a strong and lasting marriage. They create a marriage that is built on mutual respect, support, and love. They create a marriage that is a reflection of Christ's love for the church.

In addition to the passage in Ephesians 5:21, there are many other New Testament verses that speak about the importance of devotion in marriage. Here are a few examples:

Be patient and kind

The command to be patient and kind to one another is found in the book of Ephesians, where Paul writes, "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you" (4:32). This verse is a reminder that we are all sinners in need of God's grace and forgiveness. When we extend patience and kindness to others, we are reflecting the love and grace that God has shown us.

For husbands and wives, the command to be patient and kind is especially important. Marriage is a close relationship that can be stressful at times. There will be times when you disagree with your spouse, or when they irritate you. It is important to remember during these times that you are both on the same team. You are both working together to build a strong and lasting marriage.

Patience and kindness are essential ingredients for a healthy marriage. When you are patient with your spouse, you are able to withstand the storms of life together. When you are kind to your spouse, you create a warm and loving environment in your home. Patience and kindness are two of the most important qualities that you can bring to your marriage.

Here are a few tips for being patient and kind to your spouse:

• Remember that you are both on the same team.
• Be slow to anger.
• Forgive your spouse quickly.
• Speak kindly to your spouse.
• Do things for your spouse that you know they will appreciate.

Forgive one another

The command to forgive one another is found throughout the New Testament. In the book of Ephesians, Paul writes, "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you" (4:32). This verse is a reminder that we are all sinners in need of God's grace and forgiveness. When we forgive others, we are reflecting the love and grace that God has shown us.

Don't hold on to anger and resentment. When you forgive someone, do it quickly and completely.

Don't forgive someone only if they apologize or make things right. Forgive them even if they don't deserve it.

There is no limit to the number of times you should forgive someone. If they wrong you seven times, forgive them seventy times seven times (Matthew 18:21-22).

Don't just say you forgive someone; forgive them from the bottom of your heart. This means that you no longer hold any anger or resentment towards them.

Forgiving others is not always easy, but it is essential for a healthy marriage. When you forgive your spouse, you are not only letting go of the past, but you are also opening the door to a new future. Forgiveness is a powerful force that can transform your marriage and your life.

Pray together

Prayer is an essential part of a healthy Christian marriage. When you pray together, you are inviting God into your marriage and asking for His guidance and blessing. Prayer can help you to grow closer to each other and to God. It can also help you to overcome challenges and to build a strong and lasting marriage.

Make time to pray together every day, even if it's just for a few minutes. You can pray about anything, big or small. Pray for your marriage, your family, your friends, and your work. Pray for guidance, wisdom, and strength. Pray for each other's needs and desires.

Don't just pray general prayers. Pray specifically for your spouse and your marriage. Pray for your spouse's health, safety, and well-being. Pray for your marriage to be strong and healthy. Pray for God to help you to love each other more deeply and to grow closer together.

Believe that God hears your prayers and that He wants to answer them. Pray with faith that God will work in your marriage and in your lives. Pray with confidence that God loves you and wants the best for you.

Praying together out loud can be a powerful way to connect with each other and with God. When you pray out loud, you are able to hear each other's voices and to share your hearts with each other. Praying out loud can also help you to stay focused and to avoid distractions.

Praying together is a beautiful and meaningful way to grow closer to each other and to God. Make time to pray together every day and see how God transforms your marriage.

Serve one another

Serving one another is an important part of a healthy Christian marriage. When you serve your spouse, you are putting their needs before your own. You are showing them that you love and care for them. Serving your spouse can also help you to grow closer to each other and to God.

This could include doing things like cooking meals, cleaning the house, running errands, or taking care of the children. Serving your spouse in practical ways shows them that you are willing to do whatever it takes to make their life easier.

This could include listening to them when they need to talk, offering them encouragement, or simply being there for them. Serving your spouse emotionally shows them that you are there for them through thick and thin.

This could include praying for them, reading the Bible with them, or going to church with them. Serving your spouse spiritually shows them that you are committed to their spiritual growth and well-being.

This is an important part of marriage, and it can be a way to express your love and affection for your spouse. Serving your spouse sexually shows them that you are committed to their pleasure and satisfaction.

Serving one another is a beautiful and meaningful way to grow closer to each other and to God. Make a commitment to serve your spouse in every way that you can. You will be amazed at how God transforms your marriage.

Rejoice with one another

The command to rejoice with one another is found in the book of Romans, where Paul writes, "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn" (12:15). This verse is a reminder that we are all part of the body of Christ, and that we should share in each other's joys and sorrows.

For husbands and wives, the command to rejoice with one another is especially important. Marriage is a partnership, and it is important to celebrate each other's successes and achievements. When your spouse is happy, be happy for them. Celebrate their accomplishments, and share in their joy.

It is also important to rejoice with your spouse during difficult times. When your spouse is going through a tough time, be there for them. Offer them support and encouragement. Help them to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Rejoicing with your spouse through thick and thin will help to strengthen your marriage and make it more resilient.

Here are a few tips for rejoicing with your spouse:

• Be genuinely happy for your spouse's successes.
• Celebrate your spouse's accomplishments.
• Be there for your spouse during difficult times.
• Offer your spouse support and encouragement.
• Help your spouse to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Bear one another's burdens

The command to bear one another's burdens is found in the book of Galatians, where Paul writes, "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ" (6:2). This verse is a reminder that we are all part of the body of Christ, and that we should help to carry each other's burdens.

This could include listening to them when they need to talk, offering them encouragement, or simply being there for them. When your spouse is going through a difficult time, be there for them and help them to bear their emotional burdens.

This could include helping them with household chores, running errands, or taking care of the children. When your spouse is feeling overwhelmed, step up and help them to bear their physical burdens.

This could include helping them to manage their finances, create a budget, or get out of debt. When your spouse is struggling financially, be there for them and help them to bear their financial burdens.

This could include praying for them, reading the Bible with them, or going to church with them. When your spouse is struggling spiritually, be there for them and help them to bear their spiritual burdens.

Bearing one another's burdens is a beautiful and meaningful way to grow closer to each other and to God. Make a commitment to bear your spouse's burdens in every way that you can. You will be amazed at how God transforms your marriage.

Grow in love together

Marriage is a journey, and it is important to grow in love together as you travel through life. There are many ways to do this, but here are a few suggestions:

This may seem obvious, but it is important to make time for each other on a regular basis. Go on dates, take walks together, or simply cuddle up on the couch and watch a movie. Spending time together will help you to stay connected and to grow closer to each other.

Communication is key in any relationship, but it is especially important in marriage. Talk to each other about your thoughts, feelings, and needs. Be open and honest with each other, even when it is difficult. Good communication will help you to resolve conflicts and to build a stronger relationship.

Physical affection is an important part of marriage. Hug each other, kiss each other, and hold hands. Physical affection will help you to feel connected and to express your love for each other.

No one is perfect, and everyone makes mistakes. When your spouse hurts you, forgive them. Holding on to anger and resentment will only damage your relationship. Forgiveness is essential for healing and for growing in love together.

Growing in love together is a beautiful and rewarding journey. Make a commitment to each other to grow in love every day. You will be amazed at how your marriage blossoms as you grow closer together.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about New Testament wedding readings:

Question 1: What are some popular New Testament wedding readings?
Answer 1: Some popular New Testament wedding readings include Ephesians 5:21-33, 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, John 15:9-12, and Romans 12:9-18.

Question 2: How do I choose the right New Testament wedding reading?
Answer 2: When choosing a New Testament wedding reading, consider the following factors: the overall tone of your wedding ceremony, the specific message you want to convey, and the length of the reading.

Question 3: Can I use more than one New Testament wedding reading?
Answer 3: Yes, you can use more than one New Testament wedding reading. However, it is important to keep the total length of the readings to a reasonable amount.

Question 4: Who should read the New Testament wedding reading?
Answer 4: The New Testament wedding reading can be read by a member of the wedding party, a family member, or a friend. You can also choose to read the reading yourself.

Question 5: What is the best way to deliver a New Testament wedding reading?
Answer 5: When delivering a New Testament wedding reading, it is important to speak clearly and slowly. You should also make eye contact with the audience and try to convey the meaning of the reading in your voice.

Question 6: What if I am nervous about reading the New Testament wedding reading?
Answer 6: If you are nervous about reading the New Testament wedding reading, practice reading it aloud beforehand. You can also ask a friend or family member to listen to you practice.

Question 7: What if I make a mistake while reading the New Testament wedding reading?
Answer 7: If you make a mistake while reading the New Testament wedding reading, don't worry. Just pause for a moment and then continue reading. The most important thing is to convey the meaning of the reading to the audience.

I hope these FAQs have been helpful. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask your pastor or another trusted Christian leader.

In addition to the FAQs above, here are a few tips for choosing and delivering New Testament wedding readings:

Tips

Here are a few tips for choosing and delivering New Testament wedding readings:

Tip 1: Choose readings that are meaningful to you and your spouse. The New Testament wedding readings that you choose should reflect your own beliefs and values. They should also be passages that you and your spouse love and cherish.

Tip 2: Keep the length of the readings in mind. The New Testament wedding readings should be long enough to convey a meaningful message, but they should not be so long that they become tedious. A good rule of thumb is to keep the readings to around 2-3 minutes each.

Tip 3: Practice reading the readings aloud beforehand. This will help you to become familiar with the readings and to deliver them with confidence. You can also ask a friend or family member to listen to you practice.

Tip 4: Speak clearly and slowly when delivering the readings. You want to make sure that everyone in the audience can hear and understand the readings. You should also try to convey the meaning of the readings in your voice.

By following these tips, you can choose and deliver New Testament wedding readings that will be meaningful and memorable for you and your spouse.

I hope this article has been helpful in your search for New Testament wedding readings. Remember, the most important thing is to choose readings that are meaningful to you and your spouse. With a little planning and preparation, you can deliver New Testament wedding readings that will be a beautiful and lasting part of your wedding ceremony.

Conclusion

The New Testament is a rich source of beautiful and meaningful passages that can be used as wedding readings. These readings offer guidance, wisdom, and inspiration for couples as they embark on their new life together.

Some of the most popular New Testament wedding readings include:

• Love one another
• Be devoted to each other
• Be patient and kind
• Forgive one another
• Pray together
• Serve one another
• Rejoice with one another
• Bear one another's burdens
• Grow in love together

These readings remind us that marriage is a sacred covenant between two people who are committed to loving, honoring, and supporting each other. They also remind us that marriage is a journey, and that we must grow in love and commitment together as we travel through life.

If you are looking for New Testament wedding readings that will be meaningful and memorable, consider the passages listed above. With a little planning and preparation, you can choose and deliver readings that will be a beautiful and lasting part of your wedding ceremony.

May God bless you and your spouse as you begin your new life together. May your marriage be filled with love, joy, and peace.