The term Christian wife is used by many Christian denominations to describe a married woman who lives in accordance to their interpretation of the Bible. Different denominations may disagree on details regarding the meaning of being a Christian wife. One of the most agreed on roles is that of a homemaker emphasizing the role of raising children. This role also seeks to have older women guide the younger ones, as well as emphasizing the leadership of the husband and the indissoluble nature of marriage.
Many believe that since the husband is the head of the household, a Christian wife should submit and defer to him in any disputed matters. Some also believe that the husband has the right to discipline his wife, and that it is her duty to submit to such discipline, however this discipline is only acceptable if his actions and reasons are in keeping with that of a Christian.
One important part of being a Christian wife is having a Christian husband. Such a husband must also submit to her while being a leader of high moral standards. Such high standards are required to prevent an abuse of leadership over a Christian wife who properly submits. While some believe that a Christian wife can have a non-Christian husband, such an arrangement is often considered difficult. Because of this, unmarried women are encouraged to find husbands that are also Christian.
The following Bible quotes are considered relevant to the idea of a Christian wife:
She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
Proverbs 31:27.
The older women likewise, that they be reverent in behavior, not slanders, not given to much wine, teachers of good things -- that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.
Titus 2:3-5.
Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church.
Ephesians 5:22-24.
