Mutual Responsibility - Wives. Colossians 3:18. The fact that wives are addressed first shows equality in a society that had subjugated women to a servant-like role. In the Christian community, this was changed to where not only nationalities and cultures are equal, but women and men are given equal status. This was true in God's eyes, and now it is emphasized in the family unit. The submission wives are charged with is the arrangement of the different responsibilities of husband and wife. The ordinary work of a person becomes divine service when it is "fit in the Lord." The husband's role in the family is to take responsibility for the headship and leadership of the family and not leave that to his wife. Both are to submit to each other as individuals and to the Lord. The Lord is the one giving these instructions.
Wives are to accept their husbands' leadership with respect for the responsibilities God has entrusted to them. Mutual submission between husband and wife reflects the pattern of a Christian home. This signifies a genuine partnership free from tension or resentment because both understand who they are before God and accept the roles He has given them. Christ is the foundation and the aim of domestic life, which should be lived to bring glory to God.
Household relationships should never be taken for granted. From various perspectives shaped by our roles in life, opinions may lean more favorably toward one view than another. The biblical approach is always to consider one another and what is in their best interests. Submitting and loving are the biblical, relational traits that foster happiness and contentment in marriage. When a wife submits to a husband who loves her wholeheartedly, it makes his authority easier to accept and his interests aimed at serving her.
The message to Christian wives in Colosse was significant because they were understanding that male and female believers in Christ are equal in God’s eyes. A new status in God's kingdom requires behavior and dignity that should be balanced, reflecting a pattern of things in heaven. The love relationship in marriage and families testifies to the church's relationship with Christ. Subjection was not forced on wives, nor was it degrading. Instead of being a grudging response, it was to be “fit in the Lord” – in the name of the Lord Jesus.
The phrase “fitting in the Lord” highlights our responsibility in relationships, which is different from “in Christ.” “In Christ” describes our position with God. “In the Lord” reflects our willingness to submit to His divine authority. This is a voluntary choice on our part and is not demeaning or a reproach. We have been given a role to fulfill, a task to accomplish, and an attitude to adopt that demonstrates our love and submission to our Lord.
An example of submission is, as it is, “fit in the Lord.” That means being responsive to the guidance of His Word. Wives who live by faith display a beautiful meekness of spirit and special grace. A wife may not always agree with what her husband says. Still, his gracious words to her, spoken consistently every day, will assure her that he values her opinion. Each shared event continues to strengthen their union.