3 Minute Church: Marriage Roles — God’s Way
This blog unpacks Pastors Caleb and Rachel Culver’s Sermon from February 9, 2025
“Marriage is not a governmental institution, but it is a God-ordained covenant.”
Pastors Caleb and Rachel Culver
Why is marriage important to God?
LET'S BREAK IT DOWN
Marriage is a beautiful, sacred Covenant—not just a governmental institution.
But how do we cultivate this precious bond in a way that honors God's design?
The biblical concept of mutual submission, outlined in Ephesians 5, is the heart of a Godly marriage. This passage, however, has often been misunderstood or misapplied. When we examine it more closely, we discover that submission in marriage actually uplifts both husband and wife.
Contrary to cultural misconceptions, Christianity has actually elevated women's status and rights. The teachings of Jesus and the apostles revolutionized how women were treated, especially in the context of marriage.
Galatians 3:28 declares, "There is no Jew or Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ." This biblical definition of equality forms the foundation of biblical marriage.
The call for husbands is clear: "Love your wives as Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for Her" (Ephesians 5:25). This love isn't about domination. It's a sacrificial, nurturing love that seeks the highest honor for one's wife. It's about prosperous intimacy—both physical and emotional.
Men are challenged to view their role as "head" of the household not as a position of power but as a responsibility to serve. Jesus exemplified this when He washed His disciples' feet, showing that true leadership is about going low to lift others up. Husbands are called to nurture their wives spiritually, emotionally, and physically—just as they would care for their own bodies.
For wives, the instruction is to "submit to your own husbands as to the Lord" (Ephesians 5:22). This submission isn't about inferiority or losing one's voice. Rather, it's a voluntary yielding out of respect and trust. It's about embracing the God-given role of wife and helpmate, not as a doormat, but as an equal partner with a vital contribution to the marriage.
Both husbands and wives are called to mirror Christ's love in their roles.
For husbands, this means laying down their lives in sacrificial love. For wives, it means offering respect and support that empowers their husbands to be the leaders God has called them to be. It's a beautiful dance of mutual submission and complementary roles that, when embraced, can lead to true marital fulfillment.
Living out these biblical principles isn't always easy. Selfishness and pride often threaten our marriages. We may be tempted to focus on our partner’s shortcomings rather than celebrating their strengths. True marital transformation, however, begins when we confront our own hearts.
One of the greatest strengths a couple can practice in their marriage is prayer.
Praying together as a couple is one of the most intimate and unifying acts, breaking down walls and revealing areas where the Enemy is trying to create division. Prayer joins couples together before the Lord, inviting His presence and hand over the relationship.
For those struggling in their marriages, there's hope. Christ's redemptive power can bring new life to even the most challenging situations. Restoring a marriage may require laying down one's own desires, confronting past hurts, or relearning how to love and respect, but with God's help, it is possible.
It's also important to acknowledge that not everyone is married, and some may have experienced the pain of divorce or the loss of a spouse. The message of God's love extends to all, reminding us that our ultimate identity is found in Christ alone.
He is the true Bridegroom of our souls, the One who can fulfill our deepest longings.
The beauty of biblical marriage lies in its reflection of Christ's relationship with His Church. It's a living testimony to God's Covenant love—a love that perseveres, sacrifices, and continually seeks the good of the other. When we embrace this vision, our marriages become witnesses to God's transformative love.
Tap to watch Pastors Caleb and Rachel Culver’s full sermon on Youtube.
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on this sermon:
Day 1: The Foundation of Love
Reading: Ephesians 5:25-33
Devotional: God's design for marriage reflects His profound love for us. Just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, we are called to love sacrificially in our relationships. Today, reflect on how you can embody this selfless love in your own life, whether you're married or single. How can you put others' needs before your own? Remember, this kind of love isn't just about feelings but about daily choices to serve and honor others. Pray for God to fill you with His agape love, enabling you to love others as He loves us.
Day 2: Embracing Your God-Given Role
Reading: Colossians 3:18-24
Devotional: Our primary calling is to serve God in whatever role He has placed us. Whether as a spouse, parent, employee, or friend, we are called to do everything as unto the Lord. Today, consider your various roles and responsibilities. Are you embracing them fully, or are you resisting some aspects? Ask God for wisdom to see how you can honor Him in each area of your life. Remember, when we submit to God's plan for our lives, we often find unexpected blessings and growth opportunities.
Day 3: The Power of Respect and Honor
Reading: 1 Peter 3:1-7
Devotional: Respect and honor are powerful forces in our relationships. When we choose to respect and honor others, especially when it's difficult, we reflect God's character. Today, think about someone in your life who may be challenging to respect. How can you intentionally show them honor? This might involve speaking kindly about them to others, looking for their positive qualities, or simply treating them with dignity. Pray for God to help you see others through His eyes and to give you the strength to honor them, even when it's not easy.
Day 4: Overcoming Shame and Inadequacy
Reading: Romans 8:1-11
Devotional: Many of us struggle with feelings of shame or inadequacy, which can hinder our relationships and our walk with God. But in Christ, we are set free from condemnation. Today, meditate on the truth that you are deeply loved and fully accepted by God. If there are areas where you feel inadequate, bring them before the Lord. Ask Him to heal your heart and to help you see yourself as He sees you. Remember, your identity is not in your performance or others' opinions but in Christ's finished work on the cross.
Day 5: Serving in Strength and Weakness
Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
Devotional: God often works through our weaknesses just as much as our strengths. In marriage, family, and all relationships, we're called to serve others even when we don't feel capable. Today, consider an area where you feel weak or insufficient. How might God want to use that weakness for His glory? Instead of hiding your struggles, consider sharing them with a trusted friend or your spouse. Pray for God's grace to be sufficient in your weakness and for the courage to serve others even when you don't feel strong. Remember, God's power is made perfect in our weakness.