When I read Ephesians 5:25, I think, ” My husband should be as Christ, loving and serving absolutely perfectly, and anything less than that ideal standard means there is room for him to improve.” I kid, but when the standard for the role is Jesus, it does emphasize the level of responsibility a husband has in his position.
And earlier in Ephesians, the text calls us all—not just husbands—to follow Christ’s example. Because I am one of His “dearly loved children,” I am to walk in love. Thankfully, I don’t have to wonder what walking in love functionally means, I can read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7:
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”
What is the result of loving and giving of oneself like Jesus? We get the honor of being a “fragrant offering” to God the Father. The instruction of scripture for husbands, wives, and all brothers and sisters in Christ is rich in practical application and spiritual blessings.