Marriage is a beautiful and sacred institution established by God. However, it is not without its challenges. One of the most controversial concepts in marriage is the concept of submission. The idea of submission can be a sensitive topic for many people, especially for those who have experienced abuse or oppressive dynamics in their relationships. In this article, we will explore the concept of submission in Christianity and what it really means to submit to your spouse.
What is Submission?
In Christian marriage, submission is a mutual act of respect and love between husband and wife. It is not about one partner being superior to the other, but about each partner willingly choosing to put the other’s needs before their own. Submission in marriage is rooted in the biblical principle of mutual submission, where both husband and wife are called to submit to one another out of reverence for Christ (Ephesians 5:21).
Biblical Basis for Submission
The Bible provides several passages that address the concept of submission in marriage. In Ephesians 5:22-24, wives are instructed to submit to their husbands as to the Lord, while husbands are instructed to love their wives as Christ loved the church. In Colossians 3:18, wives are again instructed to submit to their husbands, and in 1 Peter 3:1, wives are instructed to be submissive to their husbands so that they may be won over without words.
However, it is essential to note that these passages are not a call for husbands to dominate their wives or for wives to be subservient to their husbands. Rather, they provide a framework for mutual love, respect, and submission in marriage. Husbands are called to love their wives sacrificially, just as Christ loved the church, and wives are called to respect their husbands.
Misconceptions About Submission
Unfortunately, the concept of submission has been misinterpreted and misused by some, leading to harmful and oppressive dynamics in marriage. Submission should never be used as an excuse for abuse, control, or manipulation. Instead, it should be a mutual act of love and respect between husband and wife.
What Submission Really Means in Marriage
Submission in marriage means putting your spouse’s needs and desires before your own. It means willingly choosing to serve and love your spouse, just as Christ loved the church. Submission is not about being weak or powerless; rather, it is about being selfless and putting your spouse’s needs above your own.
Practical Ways to Practice Submission
Here are some practical ways to practice submission in your marriage:
Communicate openly and honestly with your spouse.
Listen to your spouse’s needs and desires.
Serve your spouse and help meet their needs.
Respect your spouse’s opinions and decisions.
Forgive your spouse when they make mistakes.
Pray for your spouse and your marriage.
Benefits of Submission in Marriage
When both partners practice submission in marriage, it can lead to several benefits, including:
Greater intimacy and connection between spouses.
Increased trust and respect.
A stronger sense of teamwork and unity.
A healthier and more fulfilling marriage.
Reflecting Christ’s love and sacrifice in your relationship.
Reflection Questions:
How can you practice submission in your marriage?
What are some practical ways you can show love and respect to your spouse?
How can you encourage your spouse to practice submission in your marriage?
How can you ensure that submission does not become an oppressive or controlling dynamic in your marriage?
In what ways can you reflect Christ’s love and sacrifice in your marriage?
Submission is an essential concept in Christian marriage, but it is often misunderstood and misused. In its true form, submission is a mutual act of love and respect between husband and wife.