A Conceptual Model of Christian Marital Resilience: Integrating Emotionally Focused Therapy and Ephesians 5:22–33 in Premarital Counseling
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33856/kerusso.v11i2.643Keywords:
Christian Marital Resilience; Emotionally Focused Therapy; Ephesians 5:22–33; Premarital Counseling; Integrative ModelAbstract
Christian marital resilience encompasses couples’ ability to maintain commitment, foster emotional closeness, and navigate conflict constructively. Premarital counseling can prepare couples to face relational challenges while deepening their understanding of the theological significance of marriage. This article aims to formulate a conceptual model of Christian marital resilience by integrating Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Ephesians 5:22–33. The study employs an interdisciplinary qualitative literature review that brings clinical psychology into dialogue with pastoral theology. The literature includes publications from 2016 to 2026 on EFT, attachment theory, premarital counseling, and marital resilience, alongside foundational works on EFT and exegetical-theological studies of Ephesians 5:21–33. Sources were selected based on their relevance, academic credibility, and contribution to the research focus. The literature was analyzed through thematic synthesis and conceptual comparison. The findings propose an integrative model that combines EFT’s emphasis on identifying negative interaction cycles, understanding emotional needs, and fostering secure attachment with the biblical principles of sacrificial love, relational responsibility, and Christ’s example in Ephesians 5:21–33. This model brings relational skills and the formation of Christian commitment together as foundations for premarital counseling aimed at strengthening marital resilience. It offers an initial framework for pastoral counselors and churches, although its application and effectiveness require further empirical investigation.
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