God determined that authority would flow through the man to the woman and then to their offspring. (1 Cor. 11:3) From the Biblical account it is evident that this authority was not to be exercised in a dictatorial or authoritarian way.

The woman, as man’s complement, was to be treated with dignity and love, so that she, in turn, could have “deep respect” for her husband and could willingly be “in subjection” to him. (Eph. 5:33; 1 Pet. 3:1) The two, working together, were to produce offspring, passing along to them by word and example what was pleasing to Jehovah so that the family arrangement would have his blessing. As God later indicated, in exercising authority over their children the father and the mother are to refrain from irritating their children. Rather, the children are to be raised in the discipline and mental-regulating of Jehovah. They are to be given Christian discipline and instruction. (Eph. 6:4; compare Proverbs 1:8, 9.) Parents are also called upon to use the rod of correction when necessary. (Prov. 13:24; 29:15) While we have but briefly touched on the responsibilities of husband and wife, it is clear that the arrangement of Jehovah is that, within the family, authority is to be exercised with love and in fairness.