Disciplines of a Godly Man by R. Kent Hughes
Week 3: Chapter 2 — Discipline of Marriage
Read Chapter 2 of Disciplines of a Godly Man. Primary Scripture: Ephesians 5:25–33; 1 Peter 3:7.
Previewing Week 3 of Disciplines of a Godly Man
Read 3 of 7 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 20-week guide when you’re ready.
Hughes argues that a man's marriage is perhaps the most visible measure of his godliness — not because marriage defines him, but because the way he loves (or fails to love) his wife reveals what he truly believes about Christ and the Church. Approach these questions with both honesty and hope.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Hughes frames a husband's love for his wife through the lens of Ephesians 5 — a self-giving, sacrificial love modeled on Christ's love for the Church. In what ways does this standard feel impossibly high, and in what ways does it feel genuinely motivating?
2.The chapter emphasizes that a godly husband must understand his wife — Peter's command to live with your wife "according to knowledge" (1 Peter 3:7, KJV). Hughes suggests many husbands stopped learning about their wives years ago. What is one thing you could do this week to deepen your understanding of your wife?
a.What are her current greatest pressures or joys?
b.What does she feel she most needs from you right now?
3.Hughes talks about the importance of a husband protecting and honoring his wife — treating her, as Peter says, as "a weaker vessel" (not inferior, but to be cherished). How does the culture around you push back against this posture, and how have you felt that pressure in your own marriage?