Learning to Live in a Grace-Centered Marriage at Freedom Church in Lincolnton, North Carolina

Abstract

LEARNING TO LIVE IN A GRACE-CENTERED MARRIAGEAT FREEDOM CHURCH IN LINCOLNTON, NORTH CAROLINA

Steven Robert Benson, DEdMinThe Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 2020 Faculty Supervisor: Dr. Matthew David Haste

This project seeks to equip members of Freedom Church in Lincolnton, North Carolina to live in Grace-Centered Marriages. Chapter 1 presents the history and ministry context of Freedom Church, the partnership with Grace Roads Counseling Center and the goals of this project. Chapter 2 provides exegesis of two main passages of Scripture (Ephesians 5:21-33; Genesis 3 and 4) to show the redemptive design of how grace matures our character, identities and relating styles. Chapter 3 presents resources for the historical, contemporary views and philosophies, purpose and practices of marriage available. Chapter 4 describes the project itself, recounting the content and teaching methodology of the specific course curriculum. Chapter 5 evaluates the efficacy of the project based on completion of the specified goals. Ultimately, this project seeks to equip Christians with the confidence to live the gospel of grace in their marriages.