Ask the Pastor, January 11th

Enjoy these questions this week. You can submit your questions for Pastor Blake at FBCedmond.org/askpastor.

1. My wife has been separated for over 7 years. neither has had another person during that time. I love her dearly. also, I do not believe in divorce for non-biblical reasons. is it wrong to continue to pray for the resurrection of our marriage? I sometimes feel so guilty for this constantly being on my heart. she always calls me when she needs me for something, and I can’t help but answer that call. I am a Christian and try to live as such. it’s been said that God allows for but does not approve of divorce. I cannot get her to go to counseling and continue to pray for God to touch her heart. please give me your biblical perspective.

2. In 1 Corinthians 14:14-19, Paul writes about tongues, praying, and blessing in the spirit. What does he mean by "in the spirit?"

3. Where in the Bible is the marriage ceremony/celebration/reception mentioned? There are many scriptures to reference the importance of the marriage covenant, and the roles of a husband and wife. We understand this and are only referring to the marriage CEREMONY. Through discussion, we were unable to come up with a scripture that gives reference to an actual ceremony or wedding celebration. We were curious if the big to-do of inviting friends and family, extravagant decorations, and a reception to follow came from any scriptural basis, or if the celebration was brought about by pagans, or even slowly added by humans over the years. Thank you for your help!