Ephesians pt. X
Eph. 5:21- 6:9
Eph. 5:21-24
Continuing with his theme from verse 1 of "walking in the way of love just as Christ loved us,” In verse 21 Paul begins a discourse on submission. He says that as disciples we should submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. Then he begins to address family relationships saying that wives should submit to their husbands. Paul points out that the husband is the head of the wife just as Christ is the head of the church. The Greek word for submission here is hupotasso. It means to subordinate to, or to come under. One should note that the challenge to submit is directed to the wife. The husband has no role in her submission.
Why is submission to one another so hard?
Does a wife's submission mean blind obedience? How does society conflict with the biblical mandate of submission?
Eph. 5: 25-33
Husbands aren't let off the hook here but are perhaps given the greater responsibility. They are called to love their wives just as Christ loved the church. Paul goes on to describe how Christ loved the church and gave himself for it. He also commands that husbands should love their wives just as they love their own bodies. There is a reciprocal relationship pointed out here that might be summed in verse 33 where the apostle says husbands love your wife and wives respect your husband.
Can you see a man's need for respect?
Do you understand the beauty of a woman who is loved like Christ loved the church?
Eph. 6: 1-9
The next relationship Paul addresses is the one between children and parents. He admonishes children to obey their parents and reminds us that this commandment carries a promise. To fulfill this command, it helps to understand the principle of giving honor. The apostle goes on to address the relationship between slave and master. One needs to understand that the term slave in the Roman culture did not carry with-it all the horror and negativity that it carries in our society. He gives direction to the one in authority and the one who submits.
What have you ever done to exasperate your children?
Are you a good boss or a good employee? Do you understand authority?
Food for thought: This week think about how submitting in the proper relationships can change your life. Remember you are ultimately submitting to God. He always has your best interest at heart and you can trust him completely.