Navigating Gender Roles in a Christian RelationshipSample

Day 2: Biblical Gender Roles, pt. 1

“Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.’ So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” - Genesis 1:26-27

“The Lord God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.’” - Genesis 2:18

Two key passages about gender roles in the Bible are Genesis 1:26-27 and Genesis 2:18. Let’s break them down to better understand how to navigate gender roles in a Christian relationship.

Genesis 1:26-27

This passage is foundational in Christian discussions about gender roles. It talks about how God created humankind in His image and likeness: male and female, he created them. The wording here suggests that God created men and women as equals because they are both made in the image of God. So, while there are definitely differences between genders, there is a shared dignity and value.

This equality in creation means that both men and women are called to reflect God’s character and share in His mission. They are given the same instruction to rule over creation, indicating a partnership in stewardship and responsibility.

Genesis 2:18

This passage talks about how God decided it wasn’t good for the man to be alone. That’s why he created a “helper” — or the woman. Some interpret this verse to mean that women were created to be subservient to men. However, others argue that the term "helper" (Hebrew: ezer) used here is also used elsewhere in the Bible referring to God himself, indicating a role of significant strength and support rather than subordination.

The term “ezer” implies partnership and mutual aid, not inferiority. In fact, being a helper suitable for Adam indicates that Eve was created to complement and complete what was lacking, emphasizing a relationship built on mutual support and companionship.

Apply These Principles

Understanding these scriptures helps us see that in a Christian relationship, both partners have special strengths and qualities that show God's image. Men and women should respect each other’s roles and work together as equals. This means valuing each person’s contributions and recognizing that both are important.

In practical terms, this might look like sharing responsibilities at home, supporting each other’s dreams and goals, and making decisions together. It’s about creating a partnership where both feel valued and appreciated. When you follow these biblical principles, you build a relationship based on respect, love, and teamwork. This way, both partners can grow and thrive together as God intended.