by William Gouge
in ePub, .mobi & .pdf formats
William Gouge’s Domestical Duties is a comprehensive and deeply thoughtful treatise on the biblical responsibilities and relationships within the Christian household. Written in the early 17th century, this monumental work addresses the various roles and duties of husbands, wives, children, parents, masters, and servants in the family setting, all under the authority of Scripture. Gouge’s approach to family life is practical, pastoral, and rooted in the fear of the Lord, making it an essential guide for Christians who desire to order their homes according to God’s design.
Gouge begins by laying out the scriptural basis for these domestic duties, demonstrating that the family is the foundational institution ordained by God, preceding both the church and the state. His exposition of Ephesians 5:21–33 provides a firm theological grounding for understanding the roles of husbands and wives, emphasizing mutual submission, sacrificial love, and reverence for Christ as the ultimate example. The text covers not only the duties shared between husbands and wives but also the particular responsibilities that each must uphold. For example, wives are called to respect and submit to their husbands, while husbands are exhorted to love their wives as Christ loves the church.
What sets Domestical Duties apart is its thorough treatment of every aspect of family life, covering a wide range of topics such as marital harmony, the education and discipline of children, and the proper management of household affairs. Gouge’s counsel extends to the relationships between masters and servants, urging both parties to fulfill their respective roles in a spirit of fairness, kindness, and humility. His treatment of the relationship between parents and children is especially poignant, offering guidance on how to raise children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, while balancing love with discipline.
Gouge’s writing is not only theologically rich but also immensely practical. He acknowledges the challenges of family life, providing wise and scriptural solutions to common conflicts and difficulties that arise in the household. Throughout the book, he highlights how proper family governance contributes not only to the spiritual growth of individuals but also to the well-being of the church and society at large. His emphasis on the importance of family as a "nursery" for the church and the commonwealth underscores his belief that the health of both is deeply connected to the health of the home.
For modern readers, Domestical Duties offers timeless wisdom. Although written in the 1600s, Gouge's insights into the dynamics of marriage, parenting, and household management are as relevant today as they were in his time. His work is an excellent resource for those seeking to establish a biblically-based family life that glorifies God and reflects His order.
Short Bio of the Author:
William Gouge (1575–1653) was a leading Puritan preacher and theologian, known for his pastoral care and commitment to biblical teaching. He served as the minister of St. Ann Blackfriars in London for over 45 years, gaining respect for his faithful preaching and wise counsel. Gouge was also an influential member of the Westminster Assembly, where he contributed to the creation of the Westminster Confession of Faith. His writings, including Domestical Duties and his works on the Sabbath, continue to be valuable resources for Christians seeking to live faithfully according to God's Word.
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Table of Contents
To the cherished Inhabitants of the Precinct of Black-friers LONDON
The First Treatise: The Scriptural Basis for Domestical Duties
The Second Treatise Part I: Of Husband and Wife, who are so to be accounted
The Second Treatise Part II: Of common-mutual duties betwixt Man and Wife
The Third Treatise: Of Wives' Particular Duties
The Fourth Treatise: Of Husbands’ Particular Duties
The Fifth Treatise: Duties of Children
The Sixth Treatise: Duties of Parents
The Seventh Treatise Duties of Servants
The Eighth Treatise: Duties of Masters