What does "calling him lord" signify about respect and submission in marriage? Setting the Scene: 1 Peter 3:6 “just as Sarah obeyed Abraham and called him lord. You are her children if you do what is right and refuse to fear any intimidation.” Looking Back to Genesis • Genesis 18:12 records Sarah’s words: “After I am worn out and my lord is old, will I now have this pleasure?” • Her everyday speech revealed an ingrained attitude of honor toward Abraham, not a forced title. What “lord” Means • Greek “kyrios” = master, owner, one in rightful authority • In marriage, it signals recognition of God-ordained headship (1 Corinthians 11:3). • It does not place a husband on par with the Lord Jesus; it marks earthly leadership delegated by God. Respect Expressed • Esteem in words—“The tongue of the wise brings healing” (Proverbs 12:18). • Esteem in tone—gentle and quiet spirit is “of great worth in God’s sight” (1 Peter 3:4). • Public honor—“Her husband is respected at the city gate” because of her (Proverbs 31:23). Submission Demonstrated • Voluntary alignment, not coerced subservience (Ephesians 5:22–24). • Trusting God to lead through an imperfect man, just as Sarah followed Abraham (Genesis 12:1-5). • Refusal to fear—courage to obey God first while honoring her husband (Acts 5:29 sets the limit). Safeguards and Balance • Husbands commanded to love sacrificially (Ephesians 5:25), never exploit authority. • Colossians 3:19 warns: “Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.” • Mutual inheritance of grace—“heirs together of the grace of life” (1 Peter 3:7). Practical Outworkings Today • Speech: avoid sarcasm or belittling; choose affirming words. • Attitude: submit decisions to prayer, express viewpoints respectfully, then support final direction. • Actions: small courtesies—allowing him to lead in prayer, finances, family vision. • Public stance: stand with him; disagreements stay private. • Encouragement: voice confidence in his leadership, especially when he doubts. Blessings Promised • Inner peace—freedom from intimidation (1 Peter 3:6b). • Powerful witness—“they may be won over without words” (1 Peter 3:1). • Shared grace—unhindered prayers (1 Peter 3:7). Closing Encouragement By echoing Sarah’s respectful heart, wives embody trust in God’s order, husbands are inspired toward Christlike love, and marriages shine as living parables of the gospel. |
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