A Word for Our Arbor Family
We've been reflecting on marriage, both as marriage group leaders and because this week marks our 41st anniversary.
“Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish.”
Ephesians 5:25-27
These verses teach that husbands should love their wives selflessly, as Christ loved the church by giving Himself to make her holy. In marriage, this means caring for, respecting, and supporting their wives in all aspects, including spiritual growth.
As men, how do we wash our wives in the Word? First, we must know the Word of God. Secondly, we need the Holy Spirit.
When our wives come to us with concerns, especially in our marriage, it can be easy to get defensive, especially if we feel responsible. Defensiveness can arise when we feel blamed or fear criticism, even if our wife simply wants to share her feelings. We need to listen without judgment and not try to solve the problem. Jimmy Evans said it this way, “Men must understand that open and honest communication is one of woman’s deepest needs.” You should feel honored she chose to talk with you instead of her girlfriend! Likewise, wives should always treat their husbands with honor and respect by allowing them to be the leaders of the household.
“Washing of water by the Word” in Ephesians 5:26 refers to the continual cleansing and sanctification of believers through Scripture, drawing on Old Testament traditions and Christ’s teachings to show how God’s Word purifies and transforms the Church.
Couples who accept God's Word with faith are spiritually renewed, showing transformed attitudes and lives. By studying, reflecting, repenting, and obeying, believers are continually cleansed by truth, deepening their relationship with God and each other.
“Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, so that he might present the church to himself in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish.”
Ephesians 5:25-27
These verses teach that husbands should love their wives selflessly, as Christ loved the church by giving Himself to make her holy. In marriage, this means caring for, respecting, and supporting their wives in all aspects, including spiritual growth.
As men, how do we wash our wives in the Word? First, we must know the Word of God. Secondly, we need the Holy Spirit.
When our wives come to us with concerns, especially in our marriage, it can be easy to get defensive, especially if we feel responsible. Defensiveness can arise when we feel blamed or fear criticism, even if our wife simply wants to share her feelings. We need to listen without judgment and not try to solve the problem. Jimmy Evans said it this way, “Men must understand that open and honest communication is one of woman’s deepest needs.” You should feel honored she chose to talk with you instead of her girlfriend! Likewise, wives should always treat their husbands with honor and respect by allowing them to be the leaders of the household.
“Washing of water by the Word” in Ephesians 5:26 refers to the continual cleansing and sanctification of believers through Scripture, drawing on Old Testament traditions and Christ’s teachings to show how God’s Word purifies and transforms the Church.
Couples who accept God's Word with faith are spiritually renewed, showing transformed attitudes and lives. By studying, reflecting, repenting, and obeying, believers are continually cleansed by truth, deepening their relationship with God and each other.