Validating Committed Partnerships: A Still More Excellent Way: A New Relational Paradigm Supported by the High Way of God's Love and Justice

by Jim Bowden

Although written from a biblical/Christian perspective this book's theme has practical value for everyone. It presents a new relational paradigm supported by love, justice, mutuality, and other spiritual qualities. The author believes scripture teaches that all human beings are created to live in fulfilling relationships even those who are homosexual. People of faith, family, & community are urged to support same gender couples by validating their committed partnership; however, nearly 50% of American citizens and church members do not support legalizing same gender marriage. This historical perspective on marriage reveals marriage has experienced considerable positive change and practice during the past 75 years and needs to be redefined. Until the 20th century procreation (be fruitful and multiply) was marriage's major purpose. While procreation remains important, mutuality has become the major emphasis. As written in Genesis 2:18 (NRSV), God sought a partner for the man. In many marriages partnership has replaced patriarchy, providing an enriching relational experience in family life. The author presents a new relational paradigm which includes both heterosexual and homosexual couples seeking a lifelong committed relationship. Marriage of male and female and the union of same gender couples will share the title, partnership safeguarded by the same legal standards. For male and female, their title will be a marital partnership; for same gender couples their title will be a same gender partnership.

268 pages, Paperback

First published December 18, 2012

Reviews

[Elena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Validating Committed Partnerships is a courageous and carefully reasoned exploration of how love, justice, and mutuality can reshape our understanding of committed relationships. Jim Bowden approaches a deeply sensitive and often polarizing topic with a tone that is neither defensive nor confrontational, but invitational, asking readers to reflect rather than react.

What gives the book its strength is the way it grounds its argument in both scripture and lived reality. Bowden does not dismiss tradition; he traces it, honors its role, and then thoughtfully examines how it has evolved over time. By showing how marriage has shifted from procreation-centered to partnership-centered, he opens a space for readers to consider that change is not betrayal, but part of an ongoing moral and spiritual development.

The concept of mutuality is especially powerful. Rather than framing relationships around hierarchy, the book consistently returns to the idea of partnership, emotional, spiritual, and ethical. This reframing offers dignity not only to same-gender couples, but to all couples seeking relationships marked by reciprocity and care.

Ultimately, this book feels like an act of bridge-building. It speaks to people of faith, to families, and to communities who may be struggling to reconcile conviction with compassion. It doesn’t pretend the conversation is easy, but it insists it is necessary, and that it can be held with honesty, humility, and grace.