Text: Colossians 3:18-21
18 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them. 20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. 21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.
The word "submit" has been an area of contention for centuries. Just to be clear, "God does not command that men have exclusive authority [over women] in the areas of politics, business, education, and so on" (Guzik). In fact, this does not apply to how men and women interact in a social setting. This is strictly pertaining to the family dynamic within the context of biblical marriage. Paul was providing guidance to the husband, wife, and child as it pertains to their individual roles in the family unit.
"Paul begins his instruction on relationships with the home (Col. 3:18–21). Then he moves outward to colleagues, to masters and slaves (Col. 3:22–4:4). Finally, he addresses relationships with outsiders (Col. 4:5, 6)." (Maxwell)
As the world seeks to redefine the family structure, Christians are called upon to set an example. The husband has been called upon to lead his family. The wife, in turn, follows the leadership of her husband. As both walk together in unison, the children follow the leadership of their parents. Paul also encouraged husbands to not be bitter (v. 19) and fathers to provoke not [their] children to anger (v. 21). Husbands can be testy and fathers can be impatient. But when a husband is pleasant and approachable, his wife endears herself to his care. Whether a child is obedient or rebellious may be determined by the level of support and encouragement a father provides. Such 'domestic codes' must be practiced in lockstep with the word of God.
Jesus has shown such love and obedience for us on the cross, that we should be called children of God (1 John 3:1 NIV). Our lives must mirror that of Jesus in our faith-walk and discipleship. We are called to be loving husbands, respectful wives, and obedient children. This family portrait serves as an exemplar for what God requires of us ― love, respect, and obedience.
Happy is the home when God is there!
Prayer: Father, please help my family to be a portrait of your love and obedience. I sometimes fall short of your standard. But I want to be the person you have called me to be. Bless my family, in Jesus name. Amen!