Honest review of Building a Christ Centered Marriage

by John Stange (Author)

Updated at: 12/02/2025

In Building a Christ-Centered Marriage, John Stange offers a concise yet powerful guide to strengthening marital bonds through the lens of the Gospel. He argues that placing Jesus at the heart of a marriage is not merely a pious aspiration, but the key to navigating the inevitable challenges of married life. Drawing on biblical principles, Stange explores how Christ's teachings on love, commitment, communication, and mutual submission directly impact marital dynamics, even addressing practical concerns like finances. This book promises encouragement and refreshment for couples seeking to build a lasting, faith-filled relationship, reminding readers that applying the Gospel to their marriage isn't optional, but essential for a joyful and fulfilling union. Prepare to rediscover the transformative power of faith in your marriage.

Building a Christ Centered Marriage: 7 Keys for Keeping Jesus at the Center of your Relationship (Spiritual Growth by John Stange)

4.4 / 89 ratings

Review Building a Christ Centered Marriage

This book, "Building a Christ-Centered Marriage," completely resonated with me, and I'm so glad I picked it up. The author, John Stange, masterfully weaves together biblical principles and practical advice, making it a truly helpful guide for couples at any stage of their marriage journey. The descriptions of it being a "quick read" and "concise" are accurate – it's easily digestible, yet impactful.

My own experience with marriage has been...well, let's just say it's been a rollercoaster. Eight years into my first marriage, I was diagnosed with brain cancer, and shortly after, my wife left me. That was incredibly painful, but thankfully, I've found love again. This time, however, I'm determined to build a stronger, more God-centered foundation. This book has been instrumental in that pursuit.

What I appreciate most is how Stange doesn't shy away from the challenges inherent in marriage. He acknowledges the daily struggles, the disagreements, and the disappointments that are inevitable. But instead of offering platitudes, he provides a framework for navigating these difficulties through the lens of the Gospel. He skillfully explains how to apply biblical principles to real-life situations, like communication, finances, and conflict resolution, which is incredibly helpful.

Many reviewers mentioned the book's emphasis on submission, a topic often misunderstood. Stange tackles this head-on, clarifying its meaning within the context of a Christ-centered relationship – a mutual submission born out of love and respect for each other and for God. This nuanced approach is crucial and sheds light on a concept frequently distorted.

The book's strength lies in its simplicity and practicality. It’s not bogged down in theological jargon; instead, it focuses on clear, actionable steps for integrating faith into the daily rhythms of marriage. It's a gentle reminder that building a strong marriage is an ongoing process, requiring consistent effort and a commitment to prioritizing God. The emphasis on regularly meditating on the Gospel and allowing it to shape our responses is profoundly insightful.

Honestly, I wish I'd had this book earlier in my first marriage. It wouldn't have magically solved all our problems, but it would have equipped me with the tools and understanding to navigate the difficulties with a more Christ-like approach. It's a book that encourages reflection, prompting couples to examine their own hearts and behaviors within the context of their relationship with God and each other.

Whether you're newly married, facing long-term challenges, or simply seeking to deepen your spiritual connection as a couple, "Building a Christ-Centered Marriage" offers valuable wisdom and practical guidance. It's a resource that I wholeheartedly recommend and will continue to refer to as I strive to build a marriage that truly reflects God's love. The positive feedback from other readers further reinforces its effectiveness and value. It’s a book that deserves a place on every Christian couple's shelf.