Marriage can be amazing, but let’s be real—it also takes work. My wife and I have found that studying the Bible together is a great way to connect and grow, both spiritually and as a couple. It’s not always easy to find the *right* study, though. Some are too preachy, others are too shallow, and some just don’t fit our style. So, if you’re looking to strengthen your marriage through scripture, this review of the best married couples Bible studies might help you find the perfect fit.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Couple’s Study Guide: Offers daily study, weekly discussion, and prayers.
- The Meaning of Marriage: Discusses love, sex, roles, and redemption.
- Sacred Marriage: Focuses on spiritual growth through marriage.
- Love & Respect: Highlights the importance of love and respect in marriage.
- Kingdom Marriage: Provides guidance on building a God-centered marriage.
Top 5 Best Married Couples Bible Studies
Couple’s Study Guide: Daily Bible Study, Weekly Discussion, and Prayer
This guide offers a structured approach to studying the Bible together. It’s designed to be used daily, with weekly discussion prompts and prayer suggestions, making it great for couples who want a consistent routine. It’s not too complicated, so you can jump right in.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides a clear, easy-to-follow structure.
- ✅ Incorporates daily study, weekly discussion, and prayer.
- ✅ Suitable for couples new to Bible study.
Cons:
- ❌ May feel too structured for some couples.
- ❌ Lacks in-depth theological discussion.
- ❌ Could become repetitive after a long period.
Verdict: Ideal for couples wanting to establish a regular, simple Bible study habit together.
The Meaning of Marriage: Facing the Complexities of Commitment with the Wisdom of God
Written by Timothy Keller, this book delves into the biblical view of marriage. It tackles some tough topics like love, sex, roles, and redemption. It’s thought-provoking and offers a lot to discuss.
Pros:
- ✅ Explores complex aspects of marriage with biblical wisdom.
- ✅ Offers insightful perspectives on love, sex, and roles.
- ✅ Encourages deep and meaningful conversations.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be academically dense for some readers.
- ❌ Might be challenging for couples in crisis.
- ❌ Assumes a certain level of theological understanding.
Verdict: Great for intellectually curious couples who want a deeper understanding of marriage from a Christian perspective.
Sacred Marriage: What If God Designed Marriage to Make Us Holy More Than to Make Us Happy?
Gary Thomas challenges the conventional view of marriage as primarily for happiness. Instead, he suggests that God uses marriage to make us holy. This study is really about personal spiritual growth within the context of marriage.
Pros:
- ✅ Shifts focus from happiness to spiritual growth.
- ✅ Encourages self-reflection and personal holiness.
- ✅ Provides a unique perspective on the purpose of marriage.
Cons:
- ❌ May not appeal to couples seeking immediate solutions to marital problems.
- ❌ Can be intense and require vulnerability.
- ❌ Some may find the “holiness” focus too abstract.
Verdict: Best for couples who are committed to spiritual growth and see marriage as a means to become more Christ-like.
Love & Respect: The Love She Most Desires; The Respect He Desperately Needs
Based on Ephesians 5:33, this study emphasizes the importance of love and respect in a marriage. It’s a practical guide to understanding each other’s needs and breaking the “crazy cycle” of conflict. My friend swears this book saved their marriage.
Pros:
- ✅ Highlights the crucial roles of love and respect.
- ✅ Offers practical tools for improving communication.
- ✅ Helps couples understand each other’s core needs.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be overly simplistic for some.
- ❌ May not address deeper underlying issues.
- ❌ Some find the gender roles somewhat stereotypical.
Verdict: Good for couples struggling with communication and needing a simple framework to understand each other better.
Kingdom Marriage: Connecting God’s Purpose with Your Marriage
Tony Evans provides guidance on building a God-centered marriage. This study focuses on aligning your marriage with God’s kingdom purposes. It’s about more than just the two of you; it’s about your shared mission.
Pros:
- ✅ Connects marriage to a larger purpose.
- ✅ Encourages couples to serve God together.
- ✅ Provides a framework for building a God-centered marriage.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be suitable for couples who aren’t actively involved in ministry.
- ❌ Can feel overwhelming to couples already struggling.
- ❌ Requires a strong foundation of faith.
Verdict: Ideal for couples who desire to integrate their marriage into their service to God and the church.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right Bible study for you and your spouse can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s some advice:
- Consider your current needs: Are you looking to improve communication, deepen your spiritual connection, or address specific issues?
- Think about your study style: Do you prefer a structured daily plan or a more discussion-based approach?
- Read reviews: What are other couples saying about the study? Do their experiences align with what you’re looking for?
- Preview the material: If possible, look at sample chapters or videos to get a feel for the content.
- Pray together: Ask God to guide you in choosing a study that will bless your marriage.
Also, don’t be afraid to try a few different studies until you find one that really clicks. Sometimes it takes a little trial and error.
FAQs
Q: How often should we study together?
A: That depends on your schedules and preferences. Aim for consistency, whether it’s daily, weekly, or a few times a month.
Q: What if we disagree about something in the study?
A: That’s okay! Use it as an opportunity to listen to each other’s perspectives and seek understanding. Don’t let it turn into an argument.
Q: We’re new to Bible study. Where should we start?
A: Start with a simpler study like “Couple’s Study Guide” or “Love & Respect.” Focus on understanding the basics before diving into deeper theological topics.
Q: How do we stay consistent with our study time?
A: Schedule it like any other important appointment. Set reminders and hold each other accountable.
Conclusion
Finding the right Bible study can make a real difference in your marriage. It gives you a shared focus, helps you communicate better, and strengthens your spiritual bond. Whether you’re looking for a structured plan, a deep dive into theology, or practical advice for everyday life, there’s a study out there for you. So, take the time to explore these options and find one that fits your unique needs and preferences. Your marriage is worth the investment!
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
