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Summary: (A not-so) Quick Review
Review: The books thesis: To be a truly Christian husband is to love one's wife as Christ loves His Church.How does Wilson undertake his task? First, he points the reader to a definition of "federal headship" and the covenantal language of relationships which are based in Christ. An interesting point that Wilson makes is that many times, when husbands have marital difficulties with their wives, the men are quick to say "It's her fault. She just isn't a Biblical wife" (or some variation of blaming the wife). But as a Federal Husband, the man is ultimately responsible for all sinful activity in the house and cannot blame any in his house for any shortcomings. The second section deals with the pitfalls of husbandry. The chapter basically covers the responsibilities of husbands "as well as some of the common sins which husbands frequently commit." Wilson deals with caring for the "conjugal relations, provision of clothing and provision of food." He also details the respect due to a wife/mother and the husbands role in godly parenting, what it means to treat your wife like a lady and the role of the husband in his occupation. The third section is really, really good. Wilson takes on the masculinist, traditionalist, egalitarian and feminist views of family and headship by posing the hierarchical/Biblical view. He makes the case that women are not to submit to men "generally," nor or women subservient to men. She has a duty to her husband to provide help and submit (but only to him). Women do not have a duty to "submit" to just any person. "Submit" is handled in more detail within the book for those of you who may be a little upset right now. Next Wilson discusses feminine beauty...in the form of a pregnant wife. Pregnancy is honorable, a glory to the mother and is altogether lovely. Other matters are discussed which would simply take too long to comment on. Does the thesis match the content of the book? Yes. To be a Federal Husband entails much of the substance of Doug Wilson's material. And there is really more in this book that is worthwhile I really can not adequately comment on all of it here. Please get this book and enjoy it as much as I have.
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