The sermon titled “Together Again” draws from 1 Peter 3:1-7, emphasizing the biblical approach to avoiding conflict within marriage by using the right tools—namely, submission and understanding. The analogy of using a hammer to drive a screw highlights the frustration and inefficiency of trying to resolve marital conflicts with the wrong methods. Just as the wrong tool cannot fix a problem, using the wrong approach can worsen tensions in a relationship.

The sermon begins by addressing wives and their role in marital harmony, referencing 1 Peter 3:1-2. Wives are called to submit to their husbands, but this submission is not a sign of inferiority or agreement with everything their husbands do. Instead, it reflects a voluntary alignment, much like Christ’s submission to the Father. The goal is not to make the husband obey the wife but to guide him toward obedience to Christ. When wives try to win arguments by using words alone, it can feel like “using a hammer to drive a screw,” a counterproductive and painful approach. Instead, wives are encouraged to be an example, letting their conduct speak louder than words.

The sermon goes on to emphasize the importance of avoiding pride and ego, especially when husbands fail. If wives continuously point out their husbands’ failures, they risk pushing them away or making them passive leaders who no longer engage. The two keys for wives are to love rather than lecture and to trust God over their husbands. The first key encourages wives to respect their husbands, even when they make mistakes. Instead of pointing out failures, they should offer encouragement and express belief in their husband’s potential to improve.

The second key is trusting in God’s plan for the husband’s growth. Like Sarah, who trusted God despite the challenges of following Abraham, wives are encouraged to trust that God is working in their husband’s life, even through failures. This requires faith and patience, knowing that God uses these experiences to shape both partners in the marriage. The story of Sarah leaving her family, facing danger, and enduring hardship with Abraham serves as a powerful example of faith over fear.

Next, the focus shifts to husbands and their role in the marriage, drawing from 1 Peter 3:7. Husbands are instructed to live with their wives with understanding, honoring them as equal heirs of God’s grace. The analogy of marriage as a flight, with the husband as the captain and the wife as the co-pilot, illustrates the importance of working together while recognizing distinct roles. Husbands are called to seek understanding, particularly when it comes to their wives’ concerns about family, finances, and decision-making.

The sermon touches on the dangers of not listening to one’s wife, using the story of Abraham and Sarah as an example. When God told Abraham to listen to Sarah’s voice regarding Hagar and Ishmael, it demonstrated the value of considering a wife’s perspective. Husbands are reminded that listening to their wives does not mean always agreeing, but it shows respect and consideration.

The conclusion calls both husbands and wives to reflection and action. Husbands are urged to apologize if they have neglected their wives’ perspectives, while wives are encouraged to apologize if they have been overly critical. Both are called to pray together, seeking God’s guidance and strength in their relationship.

At Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville, Pastor Allen Victor teaches that marriage is a partnership where both spouses must seek to honor God through love, submission, and understanding. The biblical principles outlined in 1 Peter 3:1-7 provide a framework for navigating the complexities of marriage in a way that glorifies God and strengthens the relationship.

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