Sunday 11.00am
Wednesday 7.00pm
(childcare provided)
Overview
Jesus states the essence of marriage in Matthew 19:6, “they are no longer two, but one flesh.” Sounds ideal, but how do a man and woman live as one in everyday life? We get a detailed answer to this question in the 7th and 8th chapters of the Song of Solomon.
Sacred, Satisfying Sex
In Song of Solomon 7:1-10, we get a second view into the couple’s bedroom. Time has now passed since their honeymoon. Conflict has been encountered and overcome. Solomon, instead of undressing his wife top to bottom, now reverses his move, going from her feet to the top of her head. He affirms her body and her character throughout. We see her needs being met and his desires satisfied. Physical intimacy is developed.
Righteous Romance
In 7:11-13, Solomon’s wife requests a retreat with her man to explore the condition of their relationship and to give him more love. The couple discovers that their romance remains fresh and growing in springtime bloom.
An Awkward Statement
Solomon’s bride, in verses 1 through 4 of chapter 8, makes the statement that she wishes Solomon was her brother living in her home so that she could be with him physically. From our cultural perspective, her desire sounds perverted. But in her culture, she is merely stating that she wishes she could be more open in public in expressing her physical attraction for her man.
Oneness Achieved
In Song of Solomon 8:5-7, we see the couple emerge from the place of suffering and trial (the Wilderness) leaning on each other. Solomon’s wife requests that she be the seal on his heart (communicating that his heart belongs to her). In verse 6, we see that this strong love that culminates in two people belonging exclusively to each other in intimacy originates from God. In verse 7, we understand that this kind of love is greater in value than all wealth.
Application Questions
1) Is sexual intimacy a regular experience in your marriage?
2) Husband, does your lovemaking affirm the beauty and character of your wife?
3) Wife, does your lovemaking satisfy the desire of your husband?
4) Do you have a regular time set aside to be romantic together? Do you have a regularly scheduled date?
5) Do you see your love originating in God? Have you praised Him for his perfect gift to you in your spouse?
Resources
Sex, Romance and the Glory of God: What Every Christian Husband Needs to Know, by CJ and Carolyn Mahaney
For Women Only: What You Need to Know about the Inner Lives of Men, Shaunti Feldhahn