Topical Encyclopedia The role of a husband within the Christian marriage covenant is deeply rooted in biblical teachings, emphasizing a lifelong commitment to his wife. This duty is not merely a social contract but a divine mandate that reflects the relationship between Christ and the Church.Biblical Foundation The concept of a husband dwelling with his wife for life is grounded in the creation narrative and the teachings of the New Testament. In Genesis 2:24 , it is written, "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh." This passage underscores the permanence and unity intended in marriage, where the husband is to cleave to his wife, forming an indissoluble bond. New Testament Teachings The Apostle Peter provides explicit instructions regarding the husband's duty to his wife in 1 Peter 3:7 : "Husbands, in the same way, treat your wives with consideration as a delicate vessel, and with honor as fellow heirs of the gracious gift of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered." This verse highlights the importance of understanding, respect, and honor in the marital relationship, emphasizing that a husband's spiritual life is intertwined with how he treats his wife. The Apostle Paul further elaborates on the husband's role in Ephesians 5:25-28 : "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her to sanctify her, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to Himself as a glorious church, without stain or wrinkle or any such blemish, but holy and blameless. In the same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself." Here, the sacrificial love of Christ for the Church serves as the model for a husband's love and commitment to his wife, indicating a lifelong dedication to her well-being and spiritual growth. Covenantal Commitment Marriage, as depicted in Scripture, is a covenantal relationship that mirrors God's unwavering faithfulness to His people. Malachi 2:14-16 addresses the sanctity of this covenant: "Yet you ask, 'For what reason?' Because the LORD has been a witness between you and the wife of your youth, against whom you have broken faith, though she is your partner and the wife of your marriage covenant." The prophet Malachi condemns the breaking of this covenant, affirming that marriage is a lifelong commitment witnessed by God Himself. Practical Implications The duty of a husband to dwell with his wife for life encompasses various practical aspects. It involves providing for her needs, both physical and emotional, and ensuring a stable and nurturing home environment. The husband is called to be a spiritual leader, guiding his family in faith and exemplifying Christ-like love and humility. In summary, the biblical mandate for husbands to dwell with their wives for life is a profound expression of divine love and commitment. It calls for a lifelong partnership characterized by love, honor, and mutual respect, reflecting the eternal covenant between Christ and His Church. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 2:24Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall join to his wife: and they shall be one flesh. Torrey's Topical Textbook Matthew 19:3-9 Library V. ... Third Sunday after Easter The Evolution of a Father Thankfulness for Mercies Received, a Necessary Duty A Loyal Vow On Marriage. Letter xv. Social and Relative Duties. The Release of Hope. (xxiv, xxix. ) Love of God and Man The Domestic Relation. Resources What is Christian domestic discipline (CDD)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to be a godly husband? | GotQuestions.org Do women have to remain silent in church? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Husbands: Duties of, not to Interfere With Their Duties to Christ Husbands: Duty of, to Wives: Not to Leave Them, Though Unbelieving Husbands: Duty of, to Wives: To be Faithful to Them Husbands: Duty of, to Wives: To Comfort Them Husbands: Duty of, to Wives: To Consult With Them Husbands: Duty of, to Wives: To Dwell With Them for Life Husbands: Duty of, to Wives: To Love Them Husbands: Duty of, to Wives: To Regard Them As Themselves Husbands: Duty of, to Wives: To Respect Them Husbands: Have Authority Over Their Wives Husbands: should Have But One Wife Related Terms |