Knowing that We're Sinners Helps Our Marriage

Dave Harvey's book When Sinner's Say "I Do" is really good. Still, there are some who'd avoid this book simply because the title seems to betray the idea that marriage is negative. Is that true? In a good interview with Westminster Theological Seminary, Harvey answers that question:

WTS: Identifying the members of a marriage as “sinners” might seem a very negative portrayal. Why this emphasis in the title?

DH: There is a simple biblical truth that has helped me that may also help you in understanding the title. To say “I am a sinner” is to stare boldly at a fundamental reality that many people don’t even want to glance at. But when we acknowledge the fact that sin holds considerable sway in our lives, several great things become clear. First, we find ourselves in some pretty good company—the heroes of our faith from Old Testament times to present—who experienced the battle with sin on the front lines. Second, we also acknowledge what everybody around us already knows—particularly our spouse. But, by far the greatest benefit of acknowledging our sinfulness, is that it makes Christ and his work for us precious to us. Like Jesus said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance” (Luke 5: 31-32). Only sinners need a Savior. So I guess the bad news is that we’re sinners, but the good news is that the power of the gospel gives us hope for a happy, fruitful marriage.