Our government knows the value of the family unit to the nation. When families are strong morally and ethically, the nation will be strong. The nation will decay when families are broken. How much more in the church? The church is the sum of the families of its members. Our secular society and education system have influenced our thinking. Being secular, they are not guided by God’s Word. For believers, Christ is the Head of the church. We must be prepared to obey God’s Word, and not follow the world.

In the Bible, God has given clear instructions on the roles of Christian husbands and wives. In 1 Peter 3:1-6, the scenario is that of an unbelieving married couple, and the wife later became a believer while the husband remained an unbeliever. This passage teaches the responsibilities of the Christian wife.

1.    Be in subjection (1 Pet 3:1-2)

A Christian wife must always be in subjection to her husband, even if her husband is not a believer, or of whatever character. Her submission must always be in Lord. The godly behaviour of the Christian wife may win her unbelieving husband over to Christ even without him reading the Bible. Her life can point him to Christ.

2.     Dress biblically  (1 Pet 3:3-5)

A Christian wife must not focus on external beauty and material things. Her attitude and mindset must only be on spiritual things. With the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, she is a spiritual person and the inner man is her new focus. She is to have a quiet and meek spirit, studying God’s Word for sanctification. It is to be her life-long pursuit.

3.     Do well (1 Pet 3:6)

A Christian wife is to live the life of a believer. She is to honour and respect her husband. Abraham’s wife, Sara, is to be her example and encouragement. She must not relate to her husband using the world’s yardstick. The Christian wife is to be a help-meet for her husband as he contends with the god of this world and is held accountable to God for his family’s spiritual well-being.