Conclusion of The Family and Authority

The Bible explains that the husband has the prime responsibility for the spiritual welfare of not just his children but also his wife. This is described as headship.  How is this headship to be exercised?  Paul points out that just as Christ is Head of the congregation so the man is head of his wife. Paul then adds:  "Husbands, continue loving your wives, just as the Christ also loved the congregation [his spiritual bride]  and delivered up himself for it." (Ephesians 5:25)  When a man follows the example of Jesus and exercises headship in a loving way, he will earn the "deep respect" of his wife.  (Ephesians 5:33) Children in such a household will also see the  the value of God-given authority and be encouraged to accept it. -Ephesians 6:1-3.

How can single parents, including those who have lost a mate in death, cope with this issue?  Whether father or mother, they can appeal directly to the authority of Jehovah God and Jesus Christ. Jesus always spoke with authority-that of his Father and that of the inspired Scriptures. -Matthew 4:1-10; 7:29; John 5:19, 30; 8:28. 

The Bible provides  an abundance of valuable principles relating to problems faced by children.  By locating these principles and following them, a parent will be able to provide loving and helpful counsel for the children.  (Genesis 6:22;Proverbs 13:20; Matthew 6:33; 1 Corinthians 15:33; Philippians 4:8, 9) Parents can also refer to Bible-based  material designed specifically to help them train their children to appreciate the benefits of respecting the authority of the Scriptures. 

Next time: The Christian Congregation and Authority

From the Watchtower magazine, 2000