The Traditional Marriage Model Vs. Modern Marriage Model
In today’s rapidly changing society, the dynamics of traditional marriage roles have become a topic of discussion, especially among young Christian couples. The concept of the husband as the sole breadwinner and the wife as the homemaker is rooted in biblical teachings but faces challenges in our modern world where women excel in careers and men are more involved in parenting and household duties.
Egalitarianism & Complementarianism
Two main perspectives often discussed in the Christian community regarding marriage roles are egalitarianism and complementarianism. Egalitarianism advocates for equal and interchangeable roles within marriage, while complementarianism suggests that men and women have distinct roles that complement each other, particularly in marriage and church leadership.
What does the Bible say?
Scripture, particularly Ephesians chapter five, provides insights into these roles, emphasizing mutual love, respect, and submission in the context of partnership and reverence for Christ. The historical context of household roles during New Testament times sheds light on the radical and revolutionary transformation brought by Christian teachings on love, equality, and mutual respect.
Some might ask, am I obligated from Scripture, as the head of the house, to bring home more money than my wife? Or, am I as a wife, required to be a stay-at-home mom, and not pursue a career? Am I, as a wife, not allowed to further my education? The answer to all of those questions is no.
The Biblical Commands for the Husband and Wife
In dual-income households, where both partners share responsibilities for work and household tasks, challenges arise in balancing traditional expectations with modern demands. However, biblical commands for husbands and wives provide a framework for building a strong and godly marriage.
Husbands are commanded to love sacrificially, be considerate, lead with integrity and gentleness, and provide and protect their families. On the other hand, wives are called to submit to their husbands, respect them, live with purity and reverence, and contribute to a partnership that reflects Christ’s love.
Mutual commands for both spouses include loving, respecting, being faithful, praying for each other, and not depriving each other of intimacy. By following these principles, Christian couples can build a loving, respectful partnership that honors God and serves as a witness to the world. Take some time to study the Scriptures below.
Marriage is a Journey (that is blessed)
Approaching marriage roles as opportunities to demonstrate Christ’s love through relationships can lead to a fulfilling and enriching marital journey. Learning from scripture, and each other, and seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit helps us navigate the complexities of traditional marriage roles in today’s world.
Conclusion
Thank you for joining me in this enlightening discussion on traditional marriage roles from a biblical perspective. Subscribe for more insights and conversations on the Truth Be Told Project podcast. Let’s continue to walk in faith and grow in love. Peace and God bless.
Scripture References for Personal Study
For Husbands
- Ephesians 5:25-33
- Husbands are commanded to love their wives as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her, ensuring they care for their wives as their own bodies.
- Colossians 3:19
- Husbands are instructed to love their wives and not be harsh with them, emphasizing gentleness and understanding.
- 1 Peter 3:7
- Husbands are told to live with their wives in an understanding way, showing honor to them as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.
- 1 Corinthians 7:3-5
- Husbands must fulfill their marital duty to their wives, and likewise wives to their husbands. This passage speaks to the mutual sexual responsibility of husband and wife, emphasizing consent and mutual decision-making.
For Wives
- Ephesians 5:22-24
- Wives are instructed to submit to their own husbands as to the Lord, for the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church.
- Colossians 3:18
- Wives are admonished to submit to their husbands, as it is fitting in the Lord. This submission is contextualized within Christian love and mutual respect.
- 1 Peter 3:1-6
- Wives are encouraged to be submissive to their own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives. This passage also highlights the inner beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit.
- Titus 2:4-5
- Older women are urged to train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.
- 1 Corinthians 7:3-5
- Similar to the instruction for husbands, wives are also told to fulfill their marital duties to their husbands, emphasizing the importance of mutual consent and care within the marital relationship.
Mutual Instructions
- 1 Corinthians 7:10-11
- Both husbands and wives are advised not to separate from one another. If they do, they should remain unmarried or else be reconciled.
- Ephesians 4:2-3
- While not exclusive to marriage, this passage encourages all believers, including husbands and wives, to be humble, gentle, patient, bearing with one another in love, and eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
