Biblical Answer

Understanding Biblical Submission

Biblical submission, as it pertains to wives, is a concept that can be misunderstood in today's society. The passage in Ephesians 5:22-24 is often debated due to its apparent elevation of the husband's authority over the wife. However, it's essential to understand the context and the principle behind this command. The Bible teaches that wives should submit to their husbands, not because they are inferior or less capable, but because they are called to reflect the same submission to Christ that the church demonstrates.

The Analogy of Submission

The submission of wives to their husbands is compared to the church's submission to Christ (Eph. 5:21-33). This analogy highlights the gracious nature of submission, which is not about dominance or control but about responding to a loving and caring authority. The wife's submission to her husband is not about obeying an oppressive or harsh leader but about responding to a loving partner who cares for her as Christ cares for the church. This principle of submission is not limited to marriage but is a reflection of the church's relationship with Christ.

Practicing Submission in Marriage

So, what does biblical submission mean for wives? It means demonstrating a winsome obedience to God in marriage that wins their husbands to obey God in all areas of life (1 Peter 3:1-6). Wives should aim for active, intelligent, joyful submission to their husbands' authority, avoiding both the extremes of rebellion and servitude. This submission is not about sacrificing one's own identity or autonomy but about responding to a loving partner in a way that honors God. By understanding the biblical principle of submission, wives can cultivate a healthy and respectful relationship with their husbands, reflecting the same submission to Christ that the church demonstrates.