Ephesians 5:23
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For the husband is the head of the wife - This is the reason which the apostle gives for his injunctions. See above. He is the Savior of the body - As Christ exercises authority over the Church so as to save and protect it, so let the husband exercise authority over his wife by protecting, comforting, and providing her with every necessary and comfort of life, according to his power.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Co1 11:3.) even as--Greek, "as also." and he is--The oldest manuscripts read, "Himself (being) Saviour," omitting "and," and "is." In Christ's case, the Headship is united with, nay gained by, His having SAVED the body in the process of redemption; so that (Paul implies) I am not alleging Christ's Headship as one entirely identical with that other, for He has a claim to it, and office in it, peculiar to Himself [ALFORD]. The husband is not saviour of the wife, in which particular Christ excels; hence, "But" (Eph 5:24) follows [BENGEL].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Husbands, love your wives,.... Which consists in a strong and cordial affection for them; in a real delight and pleasure in them; in showing respect, and doing honour to them; in seeking their contentment, satisfaction, and pleasure; in a quiet, constant, and comfortable dwelling with them; in providing all things necessary for them; in protecting them from all injuries and abuses; in concealing their faults, and covering their infirmities; in entertaining the best opinion of their persons and actions; and in endeavouring to promote their spiritual good and welfare: this love ought to be hearty and sincere, and not feigned and selfish; it should be shown in private, as well as in public: it should be chaste and single, constant and perpetual; it should exceed that which is bore to neighbours, or even to parents, and should be equal to that a man bears to himself; though not so as to hinder, and break in upon love to God and Christ: many are the reasons why husbands should love their wives; they are given to be helps unto them; they are companions of them; they are wives of covenant; they are their own wives, yea, their own bodies, their own flesh, nay, as themselves; they are their image and their glory; and especially the example of Christ, in his love to his church and people, should engage to it: even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it: See Gill on Eph 5:2; the Syriac and Ethiopic versions read, "his own church"; his bride and spouse, whom he betrothed to himself from all eternity, the Father having given her to him; and is no other than the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven, even all the elect of God.
Ephesians 5:23
Wives and Husbands
22Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord.23For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, His body, of which He is the Savior.24Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(The Glory of God) in Marriage
By Paul Washer39K1:03:20MarriageROM 12:1EPH 5:23In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not conforming to the ways of the world but instead being transformed by renewing the mind. He highlights that God's will is perfect and balanced, and as believers, we have a great responsibility to live our lives with fear and trembling. The preacher also emphasizes the significance of women in the eyes of God and the need for men to treat their wives with love and respect. He uses the analogy of washing with water to illustrate how the Word of God should be applied gently and lovingly in our relationships.
Destroying Pop-Christian Views of Marital Bliss - Part 1
By Paul Washer11K41:08MarriageJOS 24:15MAT 6:33ROM 8:281CO 11:3EPH 5:231TI 5:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of a man loving his wife as God loves her. He highlights how many great preachers and missionaries often neglect their wives, and urges the young man listening to prioritize his relationship with his future wife. The preacher also encourages the young man to care about what God cares about, including providing for and loving his wife. He concludes by reminding the congregation that God works all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
Biblical Manhood, Then and Now
By Paul Washer4.5K55:43Biblical ManhoodROM 1:21ROM 1:28EPH 5:23EPH 6:4In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of children's exposure to ungodly media and the negative influence it has on them. He challenges the idea of youth groups and the concept of socialization, arguing that they often contradict Scripture. The speaker emphasizes that the rampant immorality in the West is a sign that we are already under the judgment of God. He urges parents to prioritize teaching their children to love the Lord and encourages them to study Deuteronomy 6 for guidance. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the listeners to be moved to search the Scriptures and be obedient.
The Local Church 2 - Part 1
By William MacDonald2.7K08:49MAT 18:20ACT 20:281CO 12:12EPH 5:23COL 1:18This sermon delves into the concept of the body of Christ, emphasizing how believers are united as one body with different functions, all under the headship of Christ. It explores the importance of understanding the universal and local church, highlighting the significance of Christ as the head of the church and the need for close fellowship with Him for guidance and direction in church life.
(The Missing Messages in Today's Christianity) Godly Husbands and Wives
By Zac Poonen2.3K58:25ChristianityGEN 2:24PSA 45:101CO 11:3EPH 5:231PE 3:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of wisdom in relationships, particularly in the context of marriage. He shares a story about the sun and the wind competing to see who could get a man to take off his coat, illustrating that wisdom is more powerful than strength. The speaker also addresses the issue of women being suppressed in churches and urges brothers to repent for their role in this. He concludes by highlighting the significance of building a godly home and encourages spouses to warm each other with love rather than resorting to shouting and yelling.
Marriage - Marriage Supper of the Lamb
By Martin Geehan1.6K45:37MarriageGEN 24:63MAL 3:10MAT 6:332CO 11:2EPH 5:231TH 4:16REV 19:5In this sermon, the preacher uses the story of Abraham and Isaac from Genesis 24 to illustrate the relationship between God the Father, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, and the church. Abraham represents God the Father, who sends his servant Eliezer (representing the Holy Spirit) to find a bride for his son Isaac (representing Jesus Christ). The preacher emphasizes the battle between good and evil that Christians face, as described by Paul in Romans 7. The sermon concludes with the marriage of Isaac and Rebecca, symbolizing the union between Christ and the church.
The Meaning of Head in the Bible
By Wayne Grudem1.4K1:08:22HeadshipGEN 2:18EXO 18:21MAT 6:331CO 11:32CO 4:2EPH 5:231PE 3:7In this sermon transcript, the speaker discusses the importance of citing references in a way that makes them difficult to locate. He emphasizes that evangelical scholarship should aim to follow the procedure used by Paul, who commended himself to every person's conscience by openly stating the truth. The speaker also mentions a system used by Chris, where the word "A" is used to refer to a person in authority. The transcript includes references to a conference on building strong families and the Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood. The speaker concludes by mentioning a conversation with Stan Gundry, a senior vice president, who holds a different view but allows for the publication of opposing views in his work.
New Covenant- God's Final Goal - Church -Part 2
By Zac Poonen1.2K09:52MAT 16:18EPH 5:23EPH 6:12REV 2:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding that it is Jesus who builds His church, not man. It warns against the dangers of trying to build a church in our own strength, as only what Christ builds will withstand the attacks of the devil. The sermon highlights the need for churches to remain focused on Christ, engage in spiritual warfare, and not be swayed by earthly distractions or false teachings.
Lo I Am With You
By Mert Wolcott1.1K42:33Great CommissionROM 12:4ROM 12:15EPH 5:23EPH 5:30In this sermon, the speaker discusses their recent trip to Africa and the challenges they faced due to the shutdown of airlines. Despite the difficulties, they were able to continue with their plans and visit Africa. The speaker emphasizes the importance of unity within the body of Christ, highlighting that although there are many members, each has a unique function. They also mention the needs of the people in Africa, particularly those affected by tribal wars, and commend the Christians who have shown forgiveness and generosity towards others. The speaker concludes by discussing the poor infrastructure in the country, specifically the terrible road conditions, which have made travel difficult and time-consuming.
Marriage Is Meant for Making Children Disciples of Jesus, Part 1
By John Piper1.0K38:03EPH 5:23This sermon emphasizes the importance of marriage as a reflection of the covenant-keeping love between Christ and His church. It highlights the responsibility of parents, especially fathers, to raise children to be followers of Jesus, whether through biological birth, adoption, or other means. The ultimate goal is to show God's character to children through the love and unity of parents, creating an atmosphere where children can experience and understand the love of Christ and the church.
sermonindex.net Simulcast 2012: The Body of Christ and Persecution
By Sandeep Poonen88908:50ROM 12:41CO 12:27GAL 3:28EPH 5:23HEB 10:24This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding the true nature of the church as the body and bride of Christ, highlighting the need to shift focus from personal experiences to the collective identity in Christ. It addresses the global perspective of the church, urging believers to see beyond national boundaries and embrace unity. Additionally, it stresses the significance of active participation in the local church, moving away from individualistic pursuits of holiness towards genuine fellowship and community.
The Terrible Price of Sin
By Erlo Stegen7631:12:00JOS 5:13EZK 2:1HOS 1:2MAT 10:32MAT 22:37ACT 9:1EPH 5:23In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a strong relationship with the Lord Jesus. He highlights the harmony and peace that comes from being filled with the Holy Spirit. The preacher warns against compromising one's Christian lifestyle and adopting the ways of the world, as it can lead to being separated from God. He encourages listeners, including children, to stand out for the Lord in all aspects of life and be faithful to their heavenly husband, Jesus Christ. The sermon references biblical stories such as the story of Gomez and the importance of having a soft heart towards God.
Jesus Christ Is Lord - Lord of the Church (2)
By J. Glyn Owen70339:44LordMAT 22:37JHN 14:15JHN 15:1ROM 12:151CO 12:27EPH 5:23COL 3:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus Christ as the head of the church. He uses the analogy of a vine and its branches to illustrate how the life and health of the church come from Christ. The speaker urges the congregation to align their thoughts, perspectives, and actions with Christ's, seeing the world through his eyes and listening to the joys and sorrows of others as he does. The sermon concludes with a call to worship and surrender to Christ as the congregation prepares to partake in communion.
A Wake-Up Call to Men
By Shane Idleman938:01Responsibility of MenSpiritual LeadershipJOS 24:151SA 15:23PSA 139:23PRO 27:8MAT 5:141CO 16:13EPH 5:23COL 3:21JAS 4:101PE 5:6Shane Idleman delivers a powerful sermon titled 'A Wake-Up Call to Men,' emphasizing the tendency of men to wander from their God-given roles and responsibilities. He draws parallels between a wandering bird and men straying from their spiritual nests, urging them to recognize the dangers of disobedience and pride. Idleman stresses the importance of honest self-examination and the need for men to lead their families with humility and strength, rather than succumbing to passivity and societal pressures. He challenges men to take responsibility for their actions and to seek God's guidance in their lives, highlighting the consequences of neglecting their roles as spiritual leaders. The sermon serves as a call to awaken the hearts of men to their vital responsibilities in the family and society.
The Final Shaking
By Phil Beach Jr.0MAL 4:61CO 3:131CO 11:32CO 5:10EPH 5:23EPH 5:271PE 4:102PE 3:101JN 2:28REV 2:5Phil Beach Jr. preaches about the urgent need for divine order to be restored in the home and church, emphasizing the failure of men to lead selflessly and the resulting rebellion in women who are forced to take the lead. He highlights the importance of men stepping up to their God-ordained leadership roles to prevent spiritual decay and destruction. Phil stresses the necessity for every member of Christ's church to pray for guidance and cooperate with God's plan for a healthy local body, rather than relying solely on human-initiated methods. He concludes by emphasizing the call for all believers to die to self, discover the abundant life of Jesus, and prepare for the imminent judgment that will begin in God's house.
The Head of the Body, the Assembly" (2)
By H.J. Vine0EPH 4:15EPH 5:23COL 1:18COL 2:10COL 2:19H.J. Vine preaches on the importance of understanding our relationship to Christ as the Head of the church, emphasizing the dangers of worldly influences that undermine His headship. The sermon delves into the decline of assemblies, the significance of being loyal to Christ amidst religious systems, and the need to heed the Spirit's guidance for the assemblies. It highlights the unique role of believers as members of Christ's body, united by the Spirit, and the importance of holding fast to Christ as the Head amidst challenges and declension.
Day 93, 1 Corinthians 11
By David Servant0PRO 3:111CO 11:271CO 11:32EPH 5:23EPH 5:33David Servant discusses the importance of understanding the underlying spiritual principles behind Paul's words on women's head coverings, emphasizing the significance of honoring one's spouse above mere symbols. He highlights the need for wives to always honor their husbands, as instructed in Scripture. Additionally, he delves into the proper observance of the Lord's Supper, emphasizing the importance of waiting for one another, self-examination, and avoiding selfish behaviors that detract from the sacredness of the meal.
The Church Being Spiritual
By Clement of Rome0MAT 7:21ROM 8:111CO 3:16EPH 5:231PE 2:5Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of doing the will of God to be part of the spiritual church created before time began. He warns against not following God's will, leading to being compared to a den of robbers. Clement urges the congregation to choose to belong to the church of life, which is the body of Christ, existing since the beginning and manifested in Jesus to bring salvation.
The Church
By F.B. Meyer0The Nature of the ChurchUnity in ChristGEN 2:18JHN 17:221CO 12:12EPH 1:22EPH 2:21EPH 3:10EPH 3:21EPH 4:4EPH 5:23EPH 5:32F.B. Meyer emphasizes the profound nature of the Church as depicted in Ephesians, portraying it as the mystical body of Christ, where He is the head and believers are the members. He illustrates that the Church is not merely a collection of congregations but a unified entity destined for glory, reflecting God's wisdom and purpose. Meyer highlights the Church's role as a building for God, constructed on the foundation of Christ, and stresses the importance of obedience to Christ's commands. He concludes by affirming the Church's ultimate purpose is to glorify God, united in love and purpose, akin to the relationship between Christ and His bride.
Roman Catholicism
By Thomas Watson0DEU 31:11ECC 5:4ISA 53:10EZK 23:37LUK 11:52ROM 5:6EPH 5:23COL 2:9COL 2:19HEB 10:121JN 5:21REV 13:1REV 14:9REV 22:18Thomas Watson preaches a sermon warning against idolatry, specifically addressing the errors and dangers of Roman Catholicism. He highlights the soul-damning nature of idolatry, the spiritual adultery it entails, and the opening it provides to God's judgments. Watson dissects various popish doctrines such as the worship of the pope, transubstantiation, denial of Scripture to the common people, salvation by personal merit, and the belief in purgatory. He also condemns practices like praying to saints and angels, image-worship, and the denial of Christ's sufferings in His soul. Watson concludes by emphasizing the unscriptural, carnal, unedifying, proud, immoral, toothless, bloody, blasphemous, ridiculous, God-provoking, and soul-destroying nature of Roman Catholicism, urging believers to keep themselves from idols.
The Bride
By T. Austin-Sparks0ISA 53:7EPH 5:232TI 2:12REV 19:7REV 21:2REV 22:17T. Austin-Sparks delves into the deep symbolism of the bride of Christ in the book of Revelation, emphasizing the importance of understanding the spiritual meaning behind the bride as the fullest expression of God's love for His Son. He highlights the three main ministries in the New Testament: initiation, building, and measuring up, each marked by the sovereignty of the Lord. The sermon focuses on the bride's characteristics, calling the entire church to embody bridal conditions of meekness, transparency, and devotion to the Lord, with a reminder that suffering and yielding are key aspects of reigning with Christ.
Meditations When My Soul Hath Been Refreshed
By Anne Bradstreet0ISA 64:82CO 6:18EPH 5:231JN 3:2Anne Bradstreet preaches about the assurance of God's love and the privileges bestowed upon believers as children of God. She reflects on the intimate relationships believers have with God as their Father, Christ as their brother, and the Holy Spirit as their husband. Bradstreet emphasizes the profound nature of these privileges, expressing awe and gratitude for what God has done. She encourages believers to purify themselves and eagerly anticipate being in God's presence in Heaven.
The Church the Body of Christ
By Elijah Goodwin0MAT 1:23JHN 1:1JHN 1:3ROM 6:31CO 11:31CO 12:12GAL 3:27EPH 1:22EPH 5:23COL 1:18HEB 1:101JN 4:11Elijah Goodwin preaches about the significance of Christ as the head of the church, emphasizing His supremacy in various biblical figures and the pre-eminence He should have in all aspects. The sermon delves into the character of Christ, highlighting His divine nature as the creator and upholder of all things, and the unity that exists between Christ as the head and the church as His body. Practical reflections are drawn on the importance of loving one another, honoring Christ, cooperating for the church's welfare, maintaining purity, and the assurance of resurrection for the members of Christ's body.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For the husband is the head of the wife - This is the reason which the apostle gives for his injunctions. See above. He is the Savior of the body - As Christ exercises authority over the Church so as to save and protect it, so let the husband exercise authority over his wife by protecting, comforting, and providing her with every necessary and comfort of life, according to his power.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
(Co1 11:3.) even as--Greek, "as also." and he is--The oldest manuscripts read, "Himself (being) Saviour," omitting "and," and "is." In Christ's case, the Headship is united with, nay gained by, His having SAVED the body in the process of redemption; so that (Paul implies) I am not alleging Christ's Headship as one entirely identical with that other, for He has a claim to it, and office in it, peculiar to Himself [ALFORD]. The husband is not saviour of the wife, in which particular Christ excels; hence, "But" (Eph 5:24) follows [BENGEL].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Husbands, love your wives,.... Which consists in a strong and cordial affection for them; in a real delight and pleasure in them; in showing respect, and doing honour to them; in seeking their contentment, satisfaction, and pleasure; in a quiet, constant, and comfortable dwelling with them; in providing all things necessary for them; in protecting them from all injuries and abuses; in concealing their faults, and covering their infirmities; in entertaining the best opinion of their persons and actions; and in endeavouring to promote their spiritual good and welfare: this love ought to be hearty and sincere, and not feigned and selfish; it should be shown in private, as well as in public: it should be chaste and single, constant and perpetual; it should exceed that which is bore to neighbours, or even to parents, and should be equal to that a man bears to himself; though not so as to hinder, and break in upon love to God and Christ: many are the reasons why husbands should love their wives; they are given to be helps unto them; they are companions of them; they are wives of covenant; they are their own wives, yea, their own bodies, their own flesh, nay, as themselves; they are their image and their glory; and especially the example of Christ, in his love to his church and people, should engage to it: even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it: See Gill on Eph 5:2; the Syriac and Ethiopic versions read, "his own church"; his bride and spouse, whom he betrothed to himself from all eternity, the Father having given her to him; and is no other than the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven, even all the elect of God.