Viewpoints
Two people can look at the same item or issue and reach different conclusions based on preference or experience. For example, consider differing opinions on a football game when fans of both teams discuss the game from opposing points of view. Consider the election we are under as two people from the same city, or even the same church, view the candidates with contrasting opinions based on political points of view. While we may argue with and wrong from a political or social spectrum, we must also understand that there are some issues by God’s design and direction where there is a moral right and wrong and a worldview which must define how we live.
It is this latter point of view that drives us to consider the challenge from Peter in 1 Peter 3:1-7. The family is the first institution ordained by God in Genesis 2, and it has been reinforced through Scripture for a man and women to live by God’s design for the purpose of demonstrating hope to the world and for being a breathing object lesson of Jesus’ love to the church.
Sadly, principles like submission has often been misunderstood, misinterpreted, or misused; leaving us with a modern day culture that struggles to clearly see that God has designed the home to look like.The concept of submission in marriage is not a matter of declaring the husband to be the boss. Sadly, examples could be given of men who have misused this to be abusive, authoritative, and flat out sinful. As stated in our sermon on this topic, a woman who has been mistreated should report this to the authorities and seek help.
Peter uses bold language for men to consider in 1 Peter 3 that they are to be humble, servant leaders who view their wife as equal and who honor them well. In fact, refusing to do so will negatively impact their relationship with God, as their prayers are hindered.
Conversely, the superpower of a woman is when she understands that how she lives and how she honors God’s design can have an eternal impact on your husband, her kids, and her community. By administering quality soul care and even looking for godly mentors, as encouraged in 1 Peter 3:6-7, a Christ-like woman can demonstrate strong character and influence as they fulfill God’s plan for their life and marriage.
The structure of a home, as God intended it to be, is a blessing to experience if we have the courage to push against what culture cries as necessary and instead choose to seek God’s Word for instruction and direction on how we should live. At the end of the day it is about seeing my home through God’s eyes and not my own.
