Faith Facts

• Research from the Institute for Family Studies shows couples with different last names divorce at a 50% higher rate.
• A shared family name reflects the biblical call for husband and wife to become one flesh in covenant marriage.
• Taking a husband’s last name serves as a visible sign of leaving, cleaving, and surrender within Christian marriage.

New research is shining a light on a simple yet profound tradition many Christian couples continue to embrace.

Couples who choose to keep separate last names after marriage face a divorce rate 50% higher than those who share one name, according to findings from the Institute for Family Studies.

“A shared name is an outward sign of the leaving, cleaving and covenantal surrender at the heart of biblical marriage,” the report notes.

This practice aligns with Scripture’s description of marriage as a lifelong union where two become one, both in spirit and in name.

Christian wives who adopt their husband’s surname often see it as an act of unity and humility that strengthens their household witness.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Faith Facts

• The Message Bible paraphrase author Eugene Peterson passed away this week in Christian history.
• The Edict of Nantes, which granted religious freedom to French Protestants, was revoked in the seventeenth century.
• Christian history continues to record both faithful perseverance and grave setbacks for believers.

Christian history is filled with moments that shaped the Church, from milestones and triumphs to tragedies and controversies, as well as the lasting impact of influential believers. These events remind believers of the enduring cost of standing for the faith once delivered to the saints.

Each week brings fresh reminders that the Church has weathered storms and celebrated victories for centuries. Remembering these milestones helps strengthen the resolve of Christians today to hold fast to biblical truth.

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Faith Facts

• The title ‘reverend’ is rooted in Scripture’s command to give honor where honor is due.
• Baptist tradition has long valued reverence for the pastoral office as a biblical calling.
• Pastor appreciation month highlights the need to respect and uphold the dignity of gospel ministry.

Among many Baptist congregations the title reverend has been viewed with suspicion, even dismissed as presumptuous. Yet one seasoned pastor sees no cause to set it aside. He argues that the title carries weight that reflects the sacred nature of the calling rather than personal pride.

Scripture teaches believers to esteem those who labor in the Word and doctrine. The pastoral office is not a casual role but a divine appointment that deserves recognition. When a church uses the title reverend it publicly affirms the weight of that responsibility.

“After decades in ministry, one pastor explains why he has never seen reason to apologize for it.”

Retaining the title does not elevate the man above the congregation. It simply acknowledges the office God has established for the shepherding of His people. In an age that often diminishes spiritual authority, such clarity helps preserve the biblical pattern of respect for those who preach the gospel.

Churches that drop the title risk communicating that the pastoral role is interchangeable with any other profession. That mindset weakens the church’s witness and confuses younger believers about the seriousness of gospel ministry. Maintaining the title serves as a quiet but consistent reminder of God’s order in the local assembly.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.