A note from our pastor:

Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.

Ephesians 5:24

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

First, please note our study verse this week continues a series of verses which focus on the institution of marriage and the relationship between husbands and wives. The verses necessarily build on one another, and, thus, the meaning of the verses should be considered individually and within the larger context and meaning. Please take the time to go back and read the writings on prior verses if you have not already done so.

In the verse we consider this week, the Apostle expresses a conclusion based on the prior two verses. This conclusion is based on several principles which we will explore in the writing today. Before considering those principles and the conclusion reached, please take note again regarding the particular pronouns used in this verse. The wife is to be subject unto their own husbands. Again, this scripture is not teaching regarding the equality of women, but rather teaching on the relationship between spouses.

The ultimate conclusion the Apostle reaches is wives, as a picture of the church, should be subject to their husbands. They should respect his decision making, his spiritual leadership, and his guidance. However, this conclusion, like any argument, is only true if the premises it is built upon are true as well.

The first premise upon which the conclusion is based is — the husband has a proven track record of self-sacrificing love towards his wife. The model is the love Christ demonstrated for his people in his ministry and death. No husband can fully live the self-sacrifice Christ did, but the instruction is to live in such a way.

The second premise supporting the Apostle’s conclusion is for the husband to have already submitted and served the wife. Christ, before he ever asked his followers to serve him, submitted to them and served them. Whether through preaching, healing, washing feet, or his death on the cross — Christ lived a life of sacrifice. As such, his people are called upon to serve him and one another and follow his example.

The final premise which must be fulfilled for the conclusion to be true is mutual love. The scriptures teach that the community of believers love Christ, because he first loved us. This mutual love is important and necessary in order for self-sacrificing service to take place. This is not a romantic love, but a love which motivates one to empathy, compassion, and forgiveness.

When these foundational premises are met, within the bonds of a marriage, spouses are in a position to model the relationship between Christ and his church. When this happens it shows the love of Christ to those around and brings hope to the world.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah