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In a Godly Home, the Husband… (Family Series Part 1)

The relationship between man and woman and the subsequent family is one of the oldest relationships on earth. Only slightly older is the relationship between man and God.

It was God that placed the husband as the head of the family. “Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord” (Eph. 5:22-25; 1 Cor. 11:3). Being the head of the family does not mean that the man is superior to woman. Nor is the husband to lord over his wife. It is simply the role that was placed on the males. In regard to submission, it is something that is reciprocated and a sign of mutual respect (Eph. 5:21). The wife is not to be treated in any way less than the way Christ loves and is concerned for His church. It also does not necessarily mean that the husband “makes all the decisions.” (There is more to headship than simply making decisions).

Headship gives direction. Your head gives your own physical body a sense of direction, without which life would be impossible. Christ as the head of His spiritual body, the church, provides it with a direction for action. The husband as the head of his family is to provide direction for all under his guidance. In Joshua’s declaration, “but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (24:15), he was setting the stage for what was expected of his family. As the head of the family, he was setting the standard for how the household should be governed in light of a belief in God. Noah is another example of one who was obedient to God. That obedience was able to save his family and the future of mankind. In both cases, direction is given to the family through example and instruction.

Another part of being the head of the household is rendering service. This was exampled to us by Jesus. He showed us that the role of the master (teacher, leader, head) involves service to his people. On the night of His betrayal, He washed the feet of the disciples and concluded with this statement, “For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you” (John 13:15). When some of the disciples tried to exalt themselves over others Jesus said, “and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave” (Matt. 20:27). We must follow the example of Christ-like servant leadership.

God has specified several other responsibilities for the husband not necessarily connected to the role of headship. Husbands should love their wives (Eph. 5:25-30). Husbands should treat their wives with respect and consideration (1 Pet. 3:7). Husbands are to care for their families (1 Tim. 5:8). In doing this, the husband can fulfill the role that was set out for him since its creation. How is the leadership in your home?