The Christian Household

The Christian home is perhaps one of the most power testimonies in the world today. As the world continues in its self-destructive mode people are awaking to the reality of their need for hope. The Christian home and the Christian in the market, provides a life giving commentary that is near impossible to ignore. 

In our study of Colossians Paul has taken great pains to articulate the new life and position that we have in Christ. He now turns in Chapter three to how we practically live out this new life before the on looking world. Paul begins with the home and then takes us to market.

Wives are to submit to their husbands as the Lord and is equally seen in the order of creation as well as in the relationship between the Son and the Father (1 Cor 11:3). But, the husband is to set the tempo through humble servant leadership giving himself up like Christ did for the Church. Kids are equally important to God as the parents are and their role is to obey because that pleases the Lord. Dads have unique role in their tribe as they are the ones who both set the tone of the marriage as well as the upbringing of the kids. They should not provoke, embitter or exasperate them. Praise for the children’s well doing instead of constant criticism will take the children and entire family far. Dads need to be providing loving discipline (Heb 12:7) and in a way that guides them towards Christ (Eph 6:4). When the Christian home is functioning as God designed the aroma of Christ permeates all relationships both inside and outside the home.

If the home is the refuge what power there is to take that vision into the market. How we live as “Christ-ones” at home will affect our employment and ownership as well. According to scholar Obrien and Carson, Paul’s instruction to slaves and masters equally apply to us today. As an employee, what is your motivation for your workmanship? Your work is to be done for Christ and our efforts are to be the best possible for Him with sincerity of heart. (Col. 3:21-22). Similary those of us who are owners (masters) we are to serve our employees well as we ourselves are serving Christ. (Col. 3:23-4:1).

Again, in all these things we need to reflect on the basis for this new life. We have died with Christ and we have been raised with Christ (Col. 2:20 & 3:1). The outcome of this new life is a life that resonates compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, grace and love. If these are hallmarks in the individual they will be hallmarks in the community of the family and workplace.

Will you reflect on all you relationships today and course correct so that aroma of Christ is found in your home and your work?