Marriages Modeled On Christ
18 Wives, submit yourselves to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives and don’t be bitter toward them.
Colossians 3:18-19 (CSB)
Marriage is the fundamental relationship established by God. Initially, God created male and female, intended for relationship and meant to become one in that union. The marriage bond between husband and wife reflects God's glory and demonstrates His greatness. As Paul mentioned to the Colossians, he discussed marriage and emphasized how this union symbolizes Christ.
Mutual Respect in Marriage. The apostle Paul calls wives to submit themselves to their husbands and for husbands to love their wives. Of course, the love mentioned is to follow the model of Christ and is servant-based. Husbands and wives are equal in value and worth but have different roles. Each role is important and supports the other. In the marriage relationship, the ability to submit and serve comes from both spouses respecting each other. This respect flows from understanding God’s institution of marriage and recognizing that He has created each person uniquely and wonderfully.
Harmony in Marriage. Harmony in Christ within marriage is genuine when Christ is at the center of both spouses' lives. Visualize this harmony as a triangle, with each spouse at the bottom and God at the apex. As each individual moves towards the Lord, the spouses grow closer because of Christ. Therefore, harmony in marriage isn't created by human effort but happens naturally when Christ is central to each person’s life, serving as the glue that keeps the marriage in harmony.
Marriage and God’s Design. We should remember that Paul discusses marriage because it derives from the Lord. The Lord created marriage as a union between one man and one woman. A marriage that honors the Lord follows this pattern. Living in a world that has tried to redefine God's design provides an opportunity to stand for the truth of marriage and reflect God's greatness. The design of marriage directs people to the gospel and offers a chance for others to witness Christ's love in action.
QUESTIONS
How can respect for one another in marriage aid in the ability to live out the love of Christ with one another? How can respect fuel the ability for reconciliation and healing in a marriage?
How can you use the union of marriage to reveal the greatness of God and the message of the gospel?
