2012 JULY WEEK FOUR LESSON

Lesson 11: The Disciple’s Marriage 3

                    (The Role of the Husband)

Main Text: Ephesians 5:22-33

Memory Verse: Eph. 5:25

Introduction

Although men and women are equal in the marriage relationship, scripture gives specific roles to each. Basically, the husband’s role is three namely;

·         The husband is the head in the home (1 Cor 11:3; Eph. 5:23). This leadership should not be dictatorial or humiliating, to the wife, but should be in accordance with the example of Christ leading the church. This responsibility involves leading the family to the Lord Jesus Christ, taking decisions and providing direction for the wife and family.  In this headship also, the husband should show respect for his wife and her opinions.

·         The husband loves his wife.  Ephesians 5:28-29 exhorts men to love their wives in the same way that they love their own bodies, feeding and caring for them.  Also, a man’s love for his wife should be the same as Christ’s love for His body, the church. This love should be as Christ loved the church (His people) with compassion, mercy, forgiveness, respect, and selflessness.

·         The husband provides for his family; his failure to do so has spiritual consequences: (1Tim 5:8). This does not mean that the wife cannot assist in supporting the family, but the responsibility is not primarily hers, but her husband’s.

Points for Discussion

1.     In what ways can the husband be the head of the home?

2.    In what ways can the husband love his wife?

3.    In what ways can the husband provide for his wife?

4.    Are there other roles for the husband?