The Biblical Concept Of Headship In Marriage Series

In Genesis 3:16, God says to the woman, "Your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you." This verse has often been misunderstood and misinterpreted, leading to confusion and controversy. In this sermon, we'll explore the biblical concept of headship in marriage and what it means for husbands and wives.

The Context of Genesis 3:16

To understand the meaning of Genesis 3:16, we need to consider the context in which it was written. The verse is part of the narrative of the Fall, where Adam and Eve disobeyed God's command not to eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil.

As a result of their sin, God pronounced judgments on both Adam and Eve. To Eve, God said that her desire would be for her husband, and he would rule over her. This statement has been interpreted in various ways, but in the context of the Fall, it's clear that God is describing the consequences of sin on the relationship between husbands and wives.

The Meaning of "Rule Over"

The Hebrew word used in Genesis 3:16 for "rule over" is "mashal," which means "to have dominion over" or "to govern." However, this concept of headship is not about one person having power and control over the other. Rather, it's about a spiritual leadership and responsibility that husbands have towards their wives.

In Ephesians 5:25-33, the apostle Paul writes about the relationship between husbands and wives, using the analogy of Christ and the church. Just as Christ is the head of the church, husbands are called to be the spiritual leaders of their homes. However, this leadership is not about domination or control, but about loving and serving one's wife, just as Christ loves and serves the church.

The Qualifications of a Godly Husband

In order for a husband to fulfil his role as spiritual leader, he must possess certain qualities. These include:

- A deep love and commitment to his wife (Ephesians 5:25-33)

- A willingness to serve and sacrifice for his wife (Philippians 2:3-8)

- A commitment to spiritual growth and maturity (2 Peter 3:18)

- A desire to lead his family in prayer, Bible study, and worship (1 Corinthians 16:13-14)

The Limitations of Headship

While husbands have a spiritual leadership role in their homes, this role is not absolute or unconditional. Husbands are called to lead their wives in a loving and serving manner, but they are not given a blank check to dominate, abuse or control their wives.

In fact, the Bible teaches that husbands and wives are equal in value and dignity before God (Galatians 3:28). Husbands are called to love and respect their wives, and to treat them with kindness and compassion (Ephesians 5:25-33).

In conclusion, the biblical concept of headship in marriage is often misunderstood and misinterpreted. While husbands have a spiritual leadership role in their homes, this role is not about domination or control, but about loving and serving one's wife. Husbands who fulfill their role as spiritual leaders must possess certain qualities, including a deep love and commitment to their wives, a willingness to serve and sacrifice, and a commitment to spiritual growth and maturity.

Ultimately, the goal of headship in marriage is not to exert power ,abuse ,dominate and control, but to build up and edify one's spouse, and to create a home environment that is characterized by love, respect, and mutual submission.