Wives Submit, Husbands Love And Children Obey

Colossians 3:18–21
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In Genesis 2:18-25 and Matthew 19:1-6 we find the first institution God founded on the earth which is the home. A happy marriage is one that is worked at and does not come automatically. As we walk with Christ we find it easier to submit and serve one another. Selfishness will bring division and conflict in the home. The word submission comes from the military meaning to arrange under rank (v. 18). It doesn’t mean that one is necessarily better than the other but only means they have different rank. One of the greatest needs today is for older women to teach younger women. (Titus 2:3-5).

A husband must love his wife and not be harsh or resentful toward her (v. 19). He is to also have the responsibility of headship and leadership in the home. This is to be carried out with a sacrificing and serving love and not any bitterness.” (Heb. 12:15). Children obeying their parents are doing what is right (Ephesians 6:1). Here we see obedience to parents is to be “in all things” and the reason is to please the Lord (v. 20). The word “fathers” (v. 21) could be translated “parents.” Parents are to encourage their children and not discourage them. This means parents need to take time to listen to their children, pray with them, help them develop their skills and in making the home the happiest and best place on earth.

Application

Compare this passage with Ephesians 5:18-6:9. Ephesians emphasizes being filled with the Spirit while Colossians emphasizes being filled with the Word. Note that the results from both produce joy, thankfulness, and submissive living. The question I need to ask myself is; do those who live with me see that I am filled with the Spirit and the Word?