Why Do You Think Some People Reject the Command That Wives Should Submit to Their Husbands?

October 3, 2007 | by John Piper | Topic: Biblical Manhood & Womanhood

The following is an edited transcription of the audio.

Is negative reaction to the command that wives should submit to their husbands a result of misunderstanding among some people?

Some are reacting against what the Bible actually means by it. They've studied long and hard, and they see it; but they don't like it.

Most, however, are reacting against a distortion of the Bible's meaning, which is why 1 Peter 3 is so valuable. When you read it carefully it removes a half a dozen distortions.

I would encourage those who have misgivings with the concept of biblical submission to husbands to give the Bible a fair hearing. The Bible is much more intent on making sure that husbands love their wives like Jesus loves the church than it is on making sure that women submit to their husbands. Because if husbands get it right then most women really flourish.

I know hundreds and hundreds of women, at my church and others, who glory in the leadership of godly men. They want men to be godly, humble, Christ-like leaders at home and in the church.

Yes, many people reject the biblical doctrine of submission because they have stereotypes of it that are not a response to Christ-like leadership. I hope that can be overcome.

©2013 Desiring God Foundation. Used by Permission.

Permissions: You are permitted and encouraged to reproduce and distribute this material in any format provided that you do not alter the wording in any way and do not charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. For web posting, a link to this document on our website is preferred. Any exceptions to the above must be approved by Desiring God.

Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: By John Piper. ©2013 Desiring God Foundation. Website: desiringGod.org


Related Resources

  • Abortion, Race, Gender, and Christ (Sermons)
  • John Piper Interviews Matt Chandler, Part 3 (Interviews)
  • Commending and Welcoming Radical Risk-Takers for Christ (Sermons)
  • The Doctrine of Biblical Complementarity (Theology Refresh)
  • Pursue Mature Manhood and Womanhood (Taste & See Articles)