Theology of Marriage and the Role of Husbands and Wives
 
The bond and covenant of marriage was established by God in Creation when God Himself said, "it is for this reason that a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh (Gen. 2:24)."  It signifies the mystery of the union between Christ and the Church and is intended to be a permanent and lasting display of the covenant-keeping grace of God (Eph. 5:31-32; Mark 10:6-9).  The union of husband and wife, in heart, body, and mind is ordained by God for their mutual joy, for the help and comfort given one another in prosperity and adversity, and when it pleases God, for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and admonition of our Lord (Eph. 6:4). 
            There are clear instructions for both husbands and wives in Scripture.  Husbands are told to love their wives as Christ loved the church; protecting them, honoring them, serving them, and being sensitive to their needs while giving care not to be harsh with them or taking advantage of the husband’s position or strength (Eph. 5:22-33; Col. 3:18-19; 1 Peter 3:1-7).
            Likewise, wives are instructed to respond to their husbands’ leadership by following with a gentle and supportive attitude and by demonstrating respect for them as God’s designated heads of the family (Eph. 5:22-33; Col. 3:18-19; 1 Peter 3:1-7). Further, wives are to manage the overall daily affairs of their home, giving special attention to three areas: the functional operation of the home, caring for the needs of her husband and children, and demonstrating good deeds both within the Family of Families as well as toward the unbelieving community (1 Tim. 2:7-15; 5:9-10, 14-15; Titus 2:3-5; Prov. 31:10-31).