MARRIAGE AND THE HOME – THE BIBLE VIEW
By: Randy Kea
The Bible defines marriage (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:3-9; Ephesians 5:31). It involves a “leaving” of the parents to form a new home. This involves willingness and consent by the two people getting married. It also involves a “cleaving” to one another which includes intention and purpose. Also, becoming “one flesh” is a part of the marriage relationship. This refers to sexual union (I Corinthians 6:16) according to Paul. However, it should be pointed out that just having a sexual union does not constitute marriage – it is the privilege of marriage. Compliance with civil law is also essential (Romans 13:1ff; I Peter 2:13).
The subject of marriage is a very serious subject. Every area of this subject is addressed in the Bible (origin, purpose, relationships in the home, etc.) Jesus said, “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder” (Matthew 19:6). Sins in the home are listed along with “murder,” “Haters of God”, etc. in Romans 1:29-32, i.e. “disobedient to parents”, “without natural affection” (lack of family love). Our relationship to God cannot be separated from our relationship with our spouse (I Peter 3:7).
The Husband must love his wife (Ephesians 5:23-25). (Note: this is the love of I Corinthians 13). A woman would never have trouble submitting to a man who practiced this kind of love. He must provide for his own household (I Timothy 5:8). He must take the lead in the training and discipline of his children (Ephesians 6:4). He must be the “head” of his household (Ephesians 5:22-31; I Corinthians 11:2-11).
The Wife must “submit” to her own husband (Ephesians 5:22-25; Titus 2:3-5). She should “guide” and “keep” the home (I Timothy 5:14; Titus 2:3-5). Any job she might obtain due to economic necessity must not cause her to neglect her family. The husband should realize, however, that if his wife has to take a job outside the home that he should be willing to help out from time to time “around the house.”
Parents should love, train, teach, and discipline their children in keeping with the word of God.
Ephesians 6:4 – “And ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath; but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”
Proverbs 13:24 – “He that spareth his rod hateth his son; but he that loveth him chasteneth him.”
Proverbs 23:13-14 – “Withhold not correction from the child; for if thou beatest him with a rod, he shall not die.”
Colossians 3:21 – “Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.”
Discipline must be tempered with love and self-control. There is a difference between discipline and abuse.
Of course, children are to obey their parents in keeping with God’s will (Ephesians 6:2; Colossians 3:20; II Timothy 3:1-2).