S06 Ep08 – Pre-Nuptial Agreements: A Christian Perspective

00:00 – 05:21 = Introduction and Context (Overview of Prenups).
01:11 – 03:50 = The Concept of Prenups and Why People Consider Them.
03:51 – 07:00 = Prenups and Trust: How They Impact Commitment in Marriage.
07:01 – 11:00 = Covenant vs. Contract: Marriage as a Lifelong Commitment.
11:01 – 14:45 = Trust Issues and the False Belief that It Can’t Be Repaired.
14:46 – 18:30 = Prenups and Covenant: Why They Are Incompatible with Marriage.
18:31 – 21:50 = Financial Anxiety: Addressing the Root Cause Instead of Prenups.
21:51 – 24:40 = The Importance of Pre-Marriage Counseling and Relationship Investment.
24:41 – 28:00 = Common Arguments for Prenups (Financial Security, Feminism).
28:01 – 30:10 = Biblical Reflection: Luke 12:32-34 (Where Is Your Treasure?).
30:11 – 33:00 = Summary: Don’t Do Prenups, Focus on Building the Relationship.
33:01 – 35:00 = Truth, Beauty, and Goodness Segment (Personal Reflections).
35:01 – 36:10 = Closing Remarks.

In this episode Stina and Padre delve into the topic of pre-nuptial agreements (prenups) and how they align (or don’t) with the Christian understanding of marriage. They explore the reasons why couples may consider a prenup, the spiritual implications, and what the Church teaches about marriage as a lifelong covenant. Stina and Padre challenge cultural perspectives and bring both theological and practical insights into this sensitive issue.

– What Is a Pre-Nup? Stina introduces the concept of a prenup as a legally binding agreement that outlines how assets will be divided if a relationship ends. While it might seem prudent in a culture with rising separation rates, she argues that entering into marriage with the mindset of potential failure contradicts the essence of trust and commitment.

– Marriage: A Covenant, Not a Contract Padre explains the Christian understanding of marriage as a covenant — a lifelong commitment that cannot be approached with the expectation of failure. He highlights how a prenup contradicts the sacred nature of marriage, focusing on financial protection rather than the soul’s journey toward heaven.

– Trust and Rebuilding Trust Sina shares professional experiences of helping couples rebuild their marriage after trust is broken. Prenups, she argues, are no substitute for the hard work of building and maintaining trust in a relationship.

1. How do you feel about the idea of a pre-nuptial agreement in light of your faith and understanding of marriage?

2. Do you believe a prenup reflects a lack of trust in a relationship? Why or why not?

3. What steps can you take to foster deeper trust and commitment in your own relationship, beyond legal agreements?

4. How does your faith influence your views on finances and assets within marriage?

1. Invest in Pre-Marriage Counseling: Engage in counseling that strengthens your relationship before marriage. Stina mentions a program with a 30% reduction in separation rates for couples who commit to this work.

2. Address Financial Stress Proactively: Instead of relying on a prenup, work through potential financial challenges together. Discuss your values around money and how it will be used within the marriage.

3. Prioritize Trust and Vulnerability: Focus on building a relationship rooted in trust and mutual vulnerability. When challenges arise, lean on your faith and communication rather than legal safeguards.

– Matthew 6:34 – “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” This verse reminds us to focus on the present, trusting that God will provide for the future.

– Luke 12:32-34 – “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Padre reflects on how this scripture calls us to prioritize heavenly treasures over earthly possessions, urging us to reflect on where our true values lie in marriage.

Padre – Nova et Vetera – Journal, article from Mariusz Billiniewicz Veritatis Splendor and the universal call to holiness

Stina – Healthy treats at work

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