samuel_peterson's review against another edition
5.0
Paperback.
This is a book I will probably find myself reading intermittently for the rest of my life. There is so much elusive, emotional truth made plain here by the Kellers. They provide such a unashamedly Biblical representation for something out "modern" culture has perverted: marriage. The Bible, as it turns out, is really very clear about what marriage was intended to look like and how it is so radically different than what the World supposes Christian marriage looks like. I have probably taken more notes over this book than any other and so to include all of the most memorable lines would be impractical, however, a personal favorite is this gem from Kathy Keller, "Since both the headship role of a husband and the submission role of a wife are servant roles, one can always begin to serve without waiting for permission" (216). I mean, come on, that's a pretty wild thing to say in a world where our own satisfaction is the default fleshly desire.
Everyone should read this.
This is a book I will probably find myself reading intermittently for the rest of my life. There is so much elusive, emotional truth made plain here by the Kellers. They provide such a unashamedly Biblical representation for something out "modern" culture has perverted: marriage. The Bible, as it turns out, is really very clear about what marriage was intended to look like and how it is so radically different than what the World supposes Christian marriage looks like. I have probably taken more notes over this book than any other and so to include all of the most memorable lines would be impractical, however, a personal favorite is this gem from Kathy Keller, "Since both the headship role of a husband and the submission role of a wife are servant roles, one can always begin to serve without waiting for permission" (216). I mean, come on, that's a pretty wild thing to say in a world where our own satisfaction is the default fleshly desire.
Everyone should read this.
hiphipmurray97's review against another edition
5.0
"The Meaning of Marriage" serves a purpose not of stating groundbreaking truths, but of reminding readers of fundamental truths and deciding to "fill-in-the-blanks" of a host of "no-duh" principles that many (including myself) have glossed over despite their "no-duh" status. This is not the definitive book on reformed-leaning Christian relationships/marriage and it is not a perfect book, but I would be hard-pressed to find a better starting point for serious writings on relationships and marriage. Who knows, though? I've got a few more such books on my shelf!
morganbrabender's review against another edition
5.0
I learned so much from this book. I listened to it on audio, but I'm considering purchasing a paper copy so I can mark it up. I'll probably listen to it again with my fiance too! So many insightful and well-explained points that helped me have the right perspective of marriage! I love how Biblical it is and how the authors pull from their own experiences and friends' experiences to make the points applicable. I highly recommed this!
cydneydaniel's review against another edition
5.0
We’ve been reading this and discussing it with our community group, and what a blessing (and lesson in humility!) it’s been. I’ve learned so much and we definitely intend to continue to revisit this book over the years of our marriage. This is my favorite marriage book we’ve read so far, and it’s going to be the first one I recommend to others from now on.
kristendabbs's review against another edition
5.0
My most recommended book on marriage. This totally reshaped my mental framework on marriage, and how God designed it to function.
emcdonnell's review against another edition
5.0
I am never disappointed in Tim Keller. He delivered such an honest and transparent biblical view of the struggles and joys a Christian couple will encounter in marriage. I particularly enjoyed his vulnerability in sharing his own marriage experience and how he and his wife struggled often with aligning their marriage to the ideals of the gospel - it showed that he was in the trenches figuring this out “with us”, not preaching at us from above. I appreciate his emphasis that love is shown by transparent honesty about each other’s faults in order to move towards becoming more like Christ together.
I think a huge part of the reason I enjoyed this book so much is because I read it with my S.O and we discussed chapter by chapter - I would highly suggest this method for any couples wondering what it looks like to glorify God in their relationship and prepare for a marriage centered on Christ. It sparked such deep and thoughtful conversation between the two of us that I’m unsure we would have had otherwise.
I think a huge part of the reason I enjoyed this book so much is because I read it with my S.O and we discussed chapter by chapter - I would highly suggest this method for any couples wondering what it looks like to glorify God in their relationship and prepare for a marriage centered on Christ. It sparked such deep and thoughtful conversation between the two of us that I’m unsure we would have had otherwise.
kristidurbs's review against another edition
5.0
I think Trevor's review says it better than I could, so go read his review. This is a wonderfully sound, insightful, and wise book. A true delight to read and discuss with my partner in the marriage journey. Read it, and read it again with the one with whom you share "your most profound relationship."
allisonstockslager's review against another edition
challenging
informative
inspiring
reflective
slow-paced
5.0