|
Central Florida (Brevard, Orlando, Space Coast) Wedding Officiating and Premarital Counseling
(Call or Text)
|
What does it mean to be Complementarian
The complementarian view of relationships is based on the belief that men and women are equal in value but have distinct roles and responsibilities within marriage and family life. This perspective is rooted in the teachings of the Bible and emphasizes the unique and complementary qualities of both genders. Here are some key aspects of the complementarian view, supported by verses from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible.
1. Equal Worth and Different Roles
The complementarian view holds that men and women are created equal in the eyes of God but are given different roles to fulfill. Genesis 1:27 (KJV) states, "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them." This verse affirms the inherent worth and dignity of both genders while acknowledging their unique roles and purposes.
2. Headship and Submission
In a complementarian marriage, the husband is seen as the head of the household, and the wife is called to support and submit to his leadership. Ephesians 5:22-24 (KJV) says, "Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing." This passage highlights the principle of loving leadership and willing submission within the marital relationship.
3. Mutual Love and Sacrifice
The complementarian view emphasizes mutual love and sacrifice between spouses. Husbands are called to love their wives sacrificially, just as Christ loved the church. Ephesians 5:25 (KJV) instructs, "Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it." This command encourages husbands to lead with love, humility, and selflessness, creating a nurturing and respectful environment for their wives.
4. The Role of the Wife
The role of the wife in a complementarian marriage is to be a helper and supporter to her husband. Genesis 2:18 (KJV) states, "And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him." This verse underscores the importance of the wife's role in providing companionship, support, and encouragement to her husband, contributing to the overall well-being of the family.
5. The Role of the Husband
The husband is called to be the provider, protector, and spiritual leader of the family. 1 Timothy 5:8 (KJV) says, "But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel." This verse highlights the husband's responsibility to care for and provide for his family, ensuring their physical, emotional, and spiritual needs are met.
6. Complementary Partnership
The complementarian view of relationships advocates for a complementary partnership where both spouses work together to fulfill their God-given roles. 1 Corinthians 11:11 (KJV) states, "Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord." This verse emphasizes the interdependence and mutual support between husbands and wives, creating a harmonious and balanced relationship that honors God.
By embracing the complementarian view of relationships, couples can build a strong, loving, and God-centered marriage that reflects the divine design and purpose for their lives.