The Bible provides specific instructions for wives and husbands, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect, love, and submission within the marital relationship. These instructions are primarily found in the New Testament, where the apostle Paul addresses the roles and responsibilities of both spouses in the context of a Christian marriage.

Wives

The role of the wife in a Christian marriage is outlined in several key passages. In Ephesians 5:22-24 , Paul writes, "Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, His body, of which He is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything." This passage highlights the concept of submission, which is often understood as a voluntary and respectful yielding to the leadership of the husband, akin to the church's submission to Christ.

In Colossians 3:18 , Paul reiterates this instruction: "Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord." The phrase "as is fitting in the Lord" suggests that this submission is not absolute but is to be exercised within the framework of Christian principles and values.

Additionally, 1 Peter 3:1-6 provides further guidance: "Wives, in the same way, submit yourselves to your husbands so that, even if they refuse to believe the word, they will be won over without words by the behavior of their wives when they see your pure and reverent demeanor." This passage emphasizes the power of a wife's conduct in influencing her husband, particularly in the context of a marriage where the husband may not share the same faith.

Husbands

The instructions for husbands focus on love and understanding. Ephesians 5:25-28 commands, "Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her to sanctify her, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to Himself as a glorious church, without stain or wrinkle or any such blemish, but holy and blameless. In the same way, husbands ought to love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself." This passage sets a high standard for husbands, calling them to love sacrificially and selflessly, mirroring Christ's love for the church.

Colossians 3:19 further instructs, "Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them." This admonition underscores the importance of kindness and gentleness in the husband's treatment of his wife.

1 Peter 3:7 adds another dimension: "Husbands, in the same way, treat your wives with consideration as a delicate vessel, and with honor as fellow heirs of the gracious gift of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered." This verse highlights the need for understanding and respect, recognizing the wife as an equal partner in the grace of life.

Mutual Responsibilities

The biblical instructions for wives and husbands are rooted in mutual respect and love, with each spouse fulfilling their roles in a manner that honors God and strengthens the marital bond. Ephesians 5:21 sets the tone for these relationships: "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ." This mutual submission reflects a partnership where both husband and wife seek to serve and honor each other, guided by their reverence for Christ.

In summary, the biblical instructions for wives and husbands emphasize a harmonious relationship characterized by love, respect, and mutual submission, reflecting the relationship between Christ and the church.