Biblical Answer

Biblical Mandate for Husbands to Love their Wives

The Bible exhorts husbands to love their wives as Christ loves the church. This is a radical command that requires husbands to prioritize their wives' purity, holiness, and godly virtues. Loving one's wife as Christ loved the church means putting her first in one's interests, protecting her from sin and temptation, and encouraging her to live a life that honors God. This command is not limited to romantic feelings, but is a decision of the mind and will, with feelings following behind. True love is something secure on which a person can build a lifelong commitment to their spouse.

Incarnational Love

A husband's love for his wife must be incarnational, meaning it is a selfless and sacrificial love. This love is modeled after Christ's love for the church, which was demonstrated through his total sacrifice. Husbands are called to love their wives in the same way, putting their interests and needs before their own. This means being considerate of their wife's feelings, honoring her, and putting her first in their interests. By doing so, husbands can create a safe and loving environment for their wives to grow in their faith and live out their God-given potential.

Submission and Leadership

In the context of Ephesians 5:25, wives are called to submit to their husbands in the same way the church submits to Christ. Husbands, on the other hand, are called to lead their wives with love and care, just as Christ leads the church. This leadership is not a dictatorship, but a loving and sacrificial guidance that prioritizes the well-being and growth of their wives. By following this biblical model, husbands and wives can build a strong and healthy marriage that honors God and brings glory to Him. In the words of Markus Barth, "the leadership of the husband is a loving, not a dominating, leadership."