In Ephesians 5:21–33, Paul builds on the idea of the submission of believers to each other (Ephesians 5:21); he then offers counsel to Christian wives (Ephesians 5:22–24) and husbands (Ephesians 5:25–32); and he concludes with a distillation of the instruction to both (Ephesians 5:33).
In this counsel, Bible students today may hear the risen Christ addressing our relationships. We are positioned to do so when we understand Ephesians 5:21–6:9 as Paul’s way of actualizing the great theme of the letter, unity, but now for the Christian household. While he offers a strong critique of the flawed social structures of the old humanity (see Ephesians 4:22), he also celebrates the creation of a new humanity (see Ephesians 2:15) embedded within the wider humanity with its flawed social structures. From within these structures, believers demonstrate that a new power, the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 2:22; 3:16; 5:18–21; 6:17, 18) and a new ethic patterned on Christ (Ephesians 4:13,15, 20–24, 32; 5:2, 10, 17, 21–33) have been unleashed, which point toward the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan for His people and the world.
Thought question: Paul cites the example of Jesus to both wives and husbands. What can you learn from Jesus about loving those in your own family circle?
Husbands and Wives Together at the Cross (Qtr 3 - Week 10: 2 September) Part1
Husbands and Wives Together at the Cross (Qtr 3 - Week 10: 2 September) Part2
Audio recordings are available 5-10 minutes after the show has aired.