Complete in Christ: A Singles Sermon Guide for Pastors
In today’s church culture, there is often an overwhelming emphasis on marriage, leaving many singles feeling incomplete or overlooked. However, the Bible clearly states that our identity and fullness come from Christ alone, regardless of our marital status. Pastors must communicate this message not only to singles but to the entire congregation. As followers of Christ, we must remember that no earthly relationship can complete us—only Jesus can.
The message of this “Singles Sermon Guide for Pastors” is rooted in Colossians 2:10, where Paul writes, “And in Christ, you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.” This powerful statement affirms that our wholeness is found in Christ, not in a spouse. The church should be a place where this truth is celebrated, particularly for single adults who may feel sidelined in ministries that focus heavily on marriage and family life.
Single adults now make up 50% of the adult population in the U.S. This demographic is growing, and yet many churches fail to actively engage singles in their ministries, often focusing their efforts on married couples and families. By failing to minister directly to singles, churches are missing a vital opportunity to reach and disciple over half of the adult population.
Pastors have a unique opportunity to address these challenges head-on by offering a sermon that speaks to the heart of single adults. The church must move beyond viewing singles as people waiting for marriage and instead recognize their potential to be fully devoted followers of Christ, serving and leading in every aspect of church life.
This “Singles Sermon Guide for Pastors” offers a practical and biblical framework for communicating the message that all believers, whether single or married, are complete in Christ. The guide draws upon biblical examples, such as Jesus and Paul, who lived single and fruitful lives for the kingdom of God. It challenges the congregation to reconsider how they view singleness and to embrace the truth that no one is incomplete because of their relationship status.
As churches become more inclusive and proactive in discipling singles, they will see growth—not only in numbers but in spiritual depth. When singles feel valued and included, they are more likely to engage fully in the life of the church, taking on leadership roles, serving in ministries, and becoming active participants in the body of Christ.
Sermon Outline
Primary Text: Colossians 2:10
- Introduction:
- Discuss times in life when we feel incomplete, such as not having enough resources or feeling inadequate. Singles often feel this way in the church due to the heavy focus on marriage.
- Example: Churches celebrate wedding anniversaries and often prefer married individuals in leadership positions.
- Point 1: The Problem of Loneliness
- Loneliness was the first problem in the Garden of Eden, but it isn’t exclusive to singles. Even married people can feel lonely.
- Biblical answer: Psalm 68:6 – God places the lonely in families, which speaks to the role of the church as a family.
- Singles are not second-class citizens. A loving community is the answer to loneliness.
- Point 2: The Solution in Community
- God’s solution to loneliness is community, as Jesus exemplified by leaving behind a church community, not just doctrine.
- The church is called to be a family, and singles are equal members of that family.
- Point 3: Paradigms of Faithful Single Adults
- Examples of single adults who made a significant impact: Paul, Jesus, Nehemiah, and Daniel.
- Jesus, the ultimate example, was single yet accomplished the greatest mission ever given by God.
Conclusion:
Singles are complete in Christ. The church must recognize their value, engage them in leadership, and foster an inclusive community that reflects God’s kingdom.
