The Christian home – Part 1

Memory Verse: Colossians 3:13 “… forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

Bible Passage: Ephesians 5:22-33

Introduction: It takes more, much more than a white Christian marriage solemnised in a church by a clergyman, to start and build a Christian home. This is of course without prejudice to the overriding importance of the foundation of any marriage. Many couples are erroneously presumptuous in this regard. Parties to the marriage have to mean every word of the vows taken and must keep to them in letter and spirit throughout life. Unwavering commitment and passionate convictions form the bedrock and starting point of a Christian home.

The Christian Husband
The husband is the head and the chief servant of the home. God will hold him primarily responsible for the fate of the home. He must be sacrificial in his service and love. He must model Christ. His duty is to lead every member in the way of the Lord all the way to heaven. He is responsible for the physical, material and spiritual wellbeing of the family. Failure of leadership in this divine assignment has far reaching implications and is, in fact, not an option, Pro.22: 6; 1 Tim5: 8; Eph.5: 27; Jos.1: 8; Dt.32: 46.

The Christian Wife
She owes God and her husband unalloyed support in the righteous management of the home. She must realise the tremendous influence she wields in the home is on trust from God and must be used in the fear of the Lord. Her duties include loving and serving the Lord, providing companionship and presenting refreshing wise perspectives on difficult issues in the best interest of the home. She should be sober and modest. She must earn the respect and trust of her husband and household. She must be given to integrity, hard work and benevolence wholeheartedly. Her preoccupation should not be elaborate hairstyles and the latest fad in town, Gen.2: 18; Eph.5: 22; Tit.2: 4; 1 Tim.2: 9-10; 1 Pt.3: 4-5; Pro.31: 11-15.

Conclusion
We are here to further the ends of the kingdom and worship God in service in all spheres of human endeavour. Any home that is out of this is far from being a Christian home. We all need help. Let us ask Him for help today. The Christian home is the crucible, where the flesh of man is overcome by the power the Holy Spirit. Christ will be fully formed in you in the mighty name of Jesus.