GRADE 9 CRE CHRISTIAN LIVING TODAY – COURTSHIP AND MARRIAGE Notes
CRE — Christian Living Today
Subtopic: Courtship and Marriage (Age 14 — Kenya)
Courtship is the time two people spend getting to know one another with the aim of marriage. In a Christian way, it involves prayer, wise advice from family or church leaders, and setting good boundaries.
What is marriage?Marriage is a life-long commitment between two people before God and the community. It includes love, faithfulness and responsibilities to each other and to their family. In the Bible: "Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife" (Genesis 2:24).
Key differences — Courtship vs Marriage
- Courtship = getting to know, learning character, guided by parents/church, not final yet.
- Marriage = legal and spiritual union, vows, co-operation, shared life responsibilities (home, finances, children).
Christian beliefs and values
- Marriage is a covenant before God and people (the church/community).
- Christian marriage requires love, respect, forgiveness and faithfulness (Ephesians 5:21–33; Hebrews 13:4).
- Courtship should reflect Christian purity — avoid sexual activity before marriage (abstinence).
- The law protects young people: the minimum legal age for marriage is 18. Child marriage is illegal (Prohibition of Child Marriage Act).
- Consent matters — both people must freely agree to marry.
- Forced marriage and early marriage are harmful and against both Kenyan law and Christian teaching about love and consent.
Practical advice for teens (age 14)
- Focus on education and dreams — school comes first.
- Make friends, learn how to communicate, and respect boundaries.
- Talk to parents, pastors or trusted elders before making any serious decision.
- Avoid sexual activity before marriage — talk openly about this with a trusted adult if pressured.
- Learn skills for future marriage: how to manage money, resolve conflicts, and care for a home.
Qualities to look for in a future partner ❤️
- Faith: shares your Christian values and prays with you.
- Respect: treats you and others with kindness.
- Responsibility: works hard at school or job and plans for the future.
- Honesty and trustworthiness.
- Good communication and willingness to seek help when problems arise.
- Pressure to have sex or hide the relationship from parents.
- Violence, threats, or controlling behaviour.
- Lies about important things or secrecy about major parts of life.
- Refusal to listen to wise advice from family/church leaders.
Role of parents, church and community
- Parents: guide, protect, and advise their children in courtship decisions.
- Church leaders: provide counsel, premarital counselling and prayer support.
- Community law: ensures marriages follow legal requirements and protects young people.
What happens in a Christian wedding? 💍
- Prayer, reading of Scripture, vows (promises), exchange of rings and signing of the marriage register.
- The marriage is celebrated in church and then registered legally with the government.
Genesis 2:24 — "A man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife."
Hebrews 13:4 — "Marriage should be honoured by all..."
Short activity / reflection
- Write 3 qualities you want in a partner and 3 qualities you will practice in future marriage.
- Talk with a parent or church leader this week about healthy friendships and boundaries.
- Find the church rules or premarital counselling offered by your church and list one thing you learned.
Remember: Courtship and marriage are important steps. As a young Christian in Kenya, keep faith, listen to wise people, follow the law, and protect your future by making responsible choices.