Marriage: A Word to Wives

Ephesians 5:22-33 | Sermon Resources | 16 October 2022

Summary

Pastor Billy continues to unpack Paul’s teaching on marriage found in Ephesians 5:22-33.  This week we focus on Paul’s call for wives to submit to their husbands as to the Lord. We will consider the instruction given, the explanation provided, and the heart that is required.

Discussion Questions

  1. Why do you think some react so negatively towards the idea of wives submitting to their husbands? 
  2. Some object to the idea of submission because they view it as demeaning to women.  Based on this passage (and others if you wish) how would you answer that objection?
  3. Others object to the idea of submission because it could be dangerous to women.  Based on this passage (and others if you wish) how would you answer that objection?
  4. What is the relationship between the instructions given to wives and the instructions given to husbands?  How are they similar?  How are they different?
  5. Discuss this statement:  “Submission is a gift to be offered not a duty to be coerced.”
  6. How does Jesus model godly submission?
  7. Read Philippians 2:1-11.  In what way does this passage paint a picture of submission?  Did Jesus’ submission make him less than God?  What was the end result of his submission (v.10-11)? 
  8. What practically does it look like for a wife to submit to her husband? 
  9. What posture of the heart is necessary for a wife to fulfill her role? Is this heart posture different from what is required of a husband?
  10. How might each spouse fulfilling their marital role lead to a joyful and flourishing marriage?

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