Leading the home

(Ephesians 5:23–29; 6:4))

Today I want us to consider: God’s Word to Fathers.

I. The Duty of a Husband (5:23–29)—If we are to be an acceptable father, we must first learn to be an acceptable and devoted husband. We have obligations as fathers, but we must also remember our duties as husbands.

A. He is to Lead (23)—The Bible is clear that the man is to be the head of the wife and the home. Most men relish the thought of being head of the home. It goes well with our male egos. This is ordained of God, but many have a distorted view of what God has said. Being the head of the home is not being a dictator in the home. We are not called to lord over our wives, but to lead them.

▪ God’s idea of the husband being the head isn’t referring to ability, worth, or advantage; it is dealing with the order and function of the home. Someone has to take the lead and stand responsible for the home, and that is to be the husband. Now men before you get to excited and proud of your God-given role, consider this: with that role comes responsibility. God has placed you in that role and He will hold you accountable for your family.

▪ One very important aspect of the husband’s lead is the spiritual climate of the home. Men, you are responsible for leading the family in the ways of God. This has clearly been reversed in modern times. In many homes, the wife and mother is the spiritual foundation of the home. Men we ought to be ashamed if our wives have to take the lead in regard to spiritual matters. If you want to lead, lead in the ways of God as well.

▪ You are responsible to set the example in prayer, Bible study, church attendance and worship, thus leading your family into a deeper relationship with the Lord. If your wife is more faithful to the Lord and closer in her relationship with Him, then you are failing in leading the family. I know that this is difficult for us to admit, but it is the word of God!

▪ Many families are weak spiritually because the husband has failed to take the lead. If you want to ensure a proper spiritual climate in your home, take the lead and make it happen!