God is the architect of
marriage
(Genesis 2). It is
Biblically defined as a life-long union between a man and a woman
(Matt
19:4-6).
In Ephesians 5, the
apostle Paul reveals by the Holy Spirit that the marital union
illustrates the spiritual oneness and intimacy between Christ and His
church. Here God teaches that His divine plan for matrimony will produce
the harmony and happiness God intended in this lifelong bond. Men may
change God’s plan, but God’s plan does not change.
Loving
Husbands
Paul teaches that the
husband has the responsibility of headship in the marriage, as Christ is
head of the church
(Eph
5:23). The great
challenge of his spiritual leadership is for the husband to love his
wife sacrificially, as Christ loves the church and gave Himself up for
her
(Eph
5:25). Paul
teaches that each husband, without exception, should love his wife as
being in a sense his very own self; he is to lead her, to nurture her in
the things of Christ, and to live with her faithfully for life
(Eph
5:28-29). This is
the kind of man that a godly woman will want to give herself to
unreservedly.
Submissive Wives
Paul teaches the wife
must lovingly submit to the leadership of her husband in the home
(Eph
5:22). This is
still God’s order, despite cultural rebellion against it. This
submission involves support, cooperation and encouragement for the
husband to fulfill his responsibility. She must also look up to and
“respect” him
(Eph
5:33). This
involves noticing him, regarding his efforts, esteeming his good points,
and loving him exceedingly.
We should teach our
children to make it their aim to marry someone who is a good Christian,
who will help them go to heaven. As two committed Christians grow closer
to Christ, they will grow closer to one another as best friends.
Husbands and wives daily
wear a physical token of this spiritual union. It is made of gold,
symbolizing the preciousness of marriage. As a ring, it is an unending
circle, symbolizing unending love. Every time a spouse sees their
wedding ring, it should be a silent reminder of the promises made on
that joyous wedding day. It is a daily symbol to prompt faithfulness to
each other always.
Terry Gunnells wrote
about the growing power of a love in marriage: “When beauty fades from
the cheek, luster from the eyes, when steps become short and wrinkles
may crease the face, when silver threads adorn the head, true love will
still sparkle and happiness will increase until that perfect day when
the great marriage feast of the Lamb will be enjoyed for all eternity.”
Other Articles by W. Frank Walton
Someone Cares
For What Am I Working?
God's Faithful Promises
Bible Authority and Church Music