Coming together in marriage, many Christian couples often wonder about their duties and responsibilities towards each other and their children. A question frequently asked: “In the Bible, who comes first, wife or child?” While there are no explicit rankings of relationships in the Holy Scripture, an examination of the relevant Biblical texts and teachings can provide valuable insights and principles.
Biblical Significance of Marriage
From the onset, the Bible establishes the sanctity of marriage. The biblical record of creation in Genesis 2:24 states, “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” This scripture highlights the significant bond between a husband and wife, forming an entirely new entity separate from any other familial ties.
Parental Responsibilities in the Bible
Parental responsibility is also to be taken seriously according to the Bible. Proverbs 22:6 directs parents to “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” This scriptural instruction calls upon parents not only to nurture the physical wellbeing of their children but also their spiritual growth and moral upbringing.
The Biblical Balance
While no scripture explicitly ranks wife above children or vice versa, Ephesians 5:25 and 6:4 show the importance of both relationships. “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” represents a husband’s devotion to his wife. “And, you fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord,” this verse points out the significant role fathers play in their children’s lives. Viewing these verses together, it becomes clear that the Bible calls for balance, not hierarchy, between spouses’ obligations to each other and their children.
Application in Modern Christian Life
The balance does not mean splitting time and care equally but understanding the different natures of these relationships. The spouse-spouse relationship is modeled as a partnership of love and mutual respect, while the parent-child relationship centers around guidance, nurture, and instruction. Inspiring the teachings of Pope Benedict XVI, maintaining a healthy relationship with both spouse and children is vital for the harmonic functioning of a Christian family.
Conclusion
While the Bible doesn’t explicitly rank the importance of the spouse or child, it does emphasize the significance of both relationships in a Christian’s life. Husband and wife are called about love and respect each other deeply, just as Christ loved the Church. Parents are tasked with providing spiritual guidance to their children and nurturing their growth. Therefore, a balanced and thoughtful approach to both relationships, guided by biblical principles, will lead to a fruitful Christian family life.
