The Academy of Biblical Masculinity


Week 5:
Relationship with Wives

Biblical Principles of Marriage

Marriage is a covenant relationship between a man and a woman, instituted by God. Its purpose is to reflect Christ's relationship with the Church, to provide companionship, and to raise godly offspring.

Read Genesis 2:24.

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Husband: To love his wife as Christ loved the Church, providing spiritual leadership, protection, and provision (Ephesians 5:25-28).
  • Wife: To respect and support her husband, creating a nurturing home environment (Ephesians 5:22-24).

Biblical Examples:

  • Abraham and Sarah: Their faith and partnership in God's promises (Genesis 17-18).
  • Boaz and Ruth: Boaz's kindness, protection, and provision for Ruth (Ruth 2-4).
  • Priscilla and Aquila: Their teamwork in ministry and support for each other (Acts 18:24-26).

Godly Leadership in Marriage

Jesus exemplified servant leadership, demonstrating that true leadership is about serving others with humility and love. Matthew 20:26-28 reminds us that the greatest among us should be a servant.

Leading with love means prioritizing your wife's needs, showing her respect, and creating an environment of trust and security.

Read Colossians 3:19

Practical Steps:

  • Develop Empathy: Understand and share in your wife's feelings and experiences.
  • Communicate Effectively: Listen actively and speak with kindness and respect.
  • Be Consistent: Show reliability and stability in your actions and decisions.

Disciplining with Love

Biblical discipline within a marriage is about guiding and correcting with love and grace, aiming to help each other grow spiritually and personally. Proverbs 13:24 emphasizes discipline with love in the context of children but what we are going for here is the combination of discipline and love.

Approach discipline with humility and a desire for mutual growth. Read Ephesians 4:2.

Communication Skills:

  • Active Listening: Truly hear and understand your partner's perspective before responding.
  • Speak the Truth in Love: Address issues honestly but kindly (Ephesians 4:15).
  • Seek Resolution: Aim for solutions that foster unity and understanding.

Personal Reflection and Goal Setting

Reflect on your current understanding and readiness for a godly marriage. What areas do you feel confident in, and where do you see room for growth?

Write down specific goals for preparing for a godly marriage. For example, 'I will practice active listening in all my relationships to improve my communication skills.'

Develop a plan to achieve your goals. This might include reading books on godly relationships, seeking mentorship, and practicing new habits. Share your plan with your accountability partner.

Weekly Devotional: Love and Respect

Scripture Reading: Ephesians 5:25-28

Reflection Questions

  • How can you love your future wife as Christ loved the Church?
  • What practical steps can you take to lead with love and respect?
  • In what ways can you prepare yourself spiritually and emotionally for marriage?