In the given text, Paul gives an analogy between the marriage relationship, and Christ’s relationship with the church. While Paul is speaking concerning “Christ and the church” (v. 32), the principles contained in the analogy are to be taken as divine instruction from God on how a marriage works.

The relationship a wife has to her husband is a submissive one. While the world views this concept as belittling, it should be observed by the wife as a wonderful relationship given by the Lord. The church, being the bride of Christ, should be willing and happy to submit to Christ, for He “gave Himself for her” (v. 25). The same attitude should be present with the wife while submitting to her husband. The husband is the head of the wife, and has the great responsibility of leading her. His rule is not demeaning, rather it is with love (cf. Colossians 3:19).

The church is subject to Christ. All authority has been given to Him (cf. Matthew 28:18) and we are to do everything in His name (cf. Colossians 3:17). “As the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything.”