The Bible provides specific guidance for the structure and functioning of households, emphasizing the importance of order, love, and mutual respect among family members. These instructions are primarily found in the New Testament, particularly in the Pauline epistles, which address the roles and responsibilities of husbands, wives, children, and servants.

Husbands and Wives

The relationship between husbands and wives is foundational to the Christian household. Ephesians 5:22-33 offers a detailed description of this relationship, drawing a parallel between the marital union and the relationship between Christ and the Church. Wives are instructed to submit to their husbands "as to the Lord" (Ephesians 5:22), while husbands are called to love their wives "just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her" (Ephesians 5:25). This sacrificial love is meant to sanctify and nurture the wife, reflecting Christ's care for the Church.

Colossians 3:18-19 reiterates these roles, urging wives to submit to their husbands "as is fitting in the Lord" and husbands to love their wives and "not be harsh with them" . The emphasis is on mutual respect and love, with each partner fulfilling their God-given role.

Children and Parents

Children are instructed to obey their parents, as this is pleasing to the Lord. Ephesians 6:1-3 states, "Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 'Honor your father and mother' (which is the first commandment with a promise), 'that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth'" . This commandment underscores the importance of respect and obedience within the family unit.

Parents, particularly fathers, are advised not to provoke their children to anger but to "bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4). Colossians 3:21 echoes this sentiment, warning fathers not to embitter their children, lest they become discouraged. The biblical model encourages nurturing and guiding children in a manner that reflects God's love and discipline.

Servants and Masters

In the context of the first-century household, servants and masters were also given specific instructions. Ephesians 6:5-9 and Colossians 3:22-4:1 address these relationships, urging servants to obey their earthly masters with sincerity and reverence for the Lord. They are to work "with all their heart, as working for the Lord, not for men" (Colossians 3:23), recognizing that they will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.

Masters, on the other hand, are instructed to treat their servants justly and fairly, knowing that they too have a Master in heaven (Colossians 4:1). Ephesians 6:9 advises masters to "do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that He who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no partiality with Him" . This teaching emphasizes the equality of all believers before God and the need for fairness and kindness in all relationships.

Summary

The biblical instructions for households provide a framework for harmonious living, rooted in love, respect, and mutual submission. By adhering to these principles, Christian families are encouraged to reflect the character of Christ in their daily interactions, fostering an environment where each member can thrive according to God's design.