[:en]WIVES AND HUSBANDS (vs. 1-7)
Wives must submit to their husbands so that even the unbelieving husband through the behavior of their wives may see the purity and reverence of their lives and come to know Christ. Christian wives must develop inner beauty rather than outward appearance. Their husbands will be won over by their love rather by their looks. Live your Christian faith at home so that your family will see Christ in you.
When Paul called women the “weaker partner”, he was referring to women’s physical limitation which was vulnerable to outward attack and family abuse. A man who honors his wife will protect, respect and help her. He will be sensitive to her needs and treat her with courtesy, consideration and trust. If a man is not considerate and respectful to his wife, his prayer will not be heard.
SUFFERING FOR DOING GOOD (VS. 8-22)
Live in harmony with one another, be sympathetic, love brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. Keep your tongue from evil and lips from deceitful speech. Turn from evil and do good. seek peace and pursue it. Blessed are those who suffer for what is right. Set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. Be gentle and respectful. Keep a clear conscience so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.[:]