What does Ephesians 5:25 mean?

After addressing wives in verses 22 through 24, Paul switches focus to husbands. The first and foremost priority for a godly husband is to love his wife—with a particular emphasis on action. Paul also provides a high standard for the love a husband should express to his wife: the example of Christ for the community of believers. The husband's love should involve a deep, lifelong commitment and the willingness to make any sacrifices necessary on her behalf.

Husbands are called to a level of dedication which includes love unto death. Though given authority as the leader of the family, the corresponding responsibility is often overlooked. A husband must love his wife, dedicate his life to staying with his wife, and be willing to die for his wife if need be. Women are obligated to submission in marriage (Ephesians 5:22–24), and the modern world often rejects this principle. Nevertheless, the Bible's standard for husbands could certainly use better application among today's Christian men, as they seek to be "imitators of God" (Ephesians 5:1).