Marriage combines two different people, and the results can be a forceful collision or a powerful blending of two into one over time. Grace is the ingredient that changes and improves our ability to create a healthy marriage. When we learn to receive and give grace to each other, we find an opportunity to express God’s love—whether we are married or unmarried. This weekend, we can explore the difference grace makes in our most significant relationships. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: 1. Read Ephesians 5:18-31. What are your first impressions? In the Greek text, verses 18-21 express one complete sentence with the main verb in verse 18: “be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Consider how submitting to one another (v. 21) is dependent on and grows from being filled with the Spirit (v. 18) and how the expectations for husbands and wives (v. 22-31) are specific applications for how we “submit to one another” (v. 18). How does this affect your first impressions? 2. What are husbands and wives called to in this passage and what motivates this calling? What makes it difficult to live out this calling as husbands and wives? 3. What did you hear this weekend that inspired you, challenged you, or sparked disagreement or further consideration? 4. How might your spouse respond to the questions: “What is it like to be married to me? What could I do to become a better husband or wife? What are my strengths or areas that you appreciate? Where do you think I could improve?” (If you’re really brave, ask your spouse). If you are unmarried, consider how your circle of friends might respond to questions like this and what characteristics you would like to emphasize or develop in yourself. 5. God’s love is exclusive—faithful, loyal, never-failing, and God’s love is also inclusive—open, extended to all, without limits. How can a married couple (uniquely) demonstrate God’s exclusive love and a single person (uniquely) demonstrate God’s inclusive love? What makes both of these expressions valuable and needed within the church? 6. Can you think of any models for God’s inclusive and exclusive love among people you have known or admire? Is there any specific action, behavior, conversation, or attitude that God may want to shape or change or inspire in you right now?