Submission in Marriage: A Biblical Perspective
What is Submission in Marriage?
Submission in marriage refers to the concept that wives are called to submit to their husbands, while husbands are commanded to love their wives. This concept, rooted in the Bible, has been interpreted and practiced in various ways throughout history.
Biblical Basis for Submission
In Ephesians 5:22-33, the Bible instructs wives to submit to their husbands as unto the Lord. This submission is not seen as a form of inferiority but rather as a reflection of the loving and supportive relationship between Christ and the church.
Submission in Practice
Healthy submission in marriage is not about blindly obeying a husband's every wish. Rather, it involves:
- Respectful Communication: Wives should express their perspectives and opinions, but ultimately respect their husband's leadership.
- Seeking Harmony and Unity: Submission aims to create unity within the marriage and prevent conflict.
- Mutual Support: Both spouses should support each other's goals, ambitions, and well-being.
- Honoring Differences: Submission does not require wives to give up their own identities or beliefs. Instead, it encourages respect for differences.
Husband's Role
While wives are called to submit, husbands have an equally important role to play. They are commanded to:
- Love Their Wives: Husbands should love their wives unconditionally, as Christ loved the church.
- Provide Leadership: Husbands are responsible for providing leadership within the marriage, but this leadership should be gentle and loving.
- Respect Their Wives: Husbands should value and respect their wives as partners and equals.
- Be Willing to Submit: In some situations, husbands may also need to submit to their wives, such as when it comes to decision-making or resolving conflicts.
Benefits of Submission
When submission is practiced in a healthy and biblical way, it can bring numerous benefits to marriage:
- Stronger Bond: Submission fosters a deeper connection and intimacy between spouses.
- Reduced Conflict: Respectful communication and unity reduce the likelihood of conflict.
- Personal Growth: Submission can help spouses develop humility and selflessness.
- God's Favor: Submission is seen as a reflection of God's order and brings His blessing upon marriage.
