In this episode of Anchored in the Word with Dave, Dave Jenkins responds to a listener question about the trending term “tradwife” and how it relates to biblical womanhood and the Christian home.

Dave examines this cultural conversation through the lens of Scripture, distinguishing between cultural traditionalism and the biblical complementarity that reflects God’s design for marriage. Whether you’re hearing this term for the first time or wrestling with what it means in light of the gospel, this episode offers biblical clarity, wisdom, and grace.

🎧 Listen:

🎥 Watch:

📖 Full Transcript:

What Are Tradwives? What Is a Tradwife? Does It Matter?

Dave: Welcome to another episode of Servants of Grace! I’m Dave Jenkins, your host, and today’s question comes from a listener who wants to understand more about a term that’s been circulating in online discussions—‘tradwife.’ The listener asks, “What are tradwives? What is a tradwife? Does it matter?”

The term ‘tradwife’ refers to a woman who embraces traditional gender roles, particularly in the context of marriage. But does the idea of a ‘tradwife’ matter, and what does the Bible say about gender roles in marriage? We’ll explore this question today by examining it biblically, theologically, and practically. Let’s dive in.

Defining the Term ‘Tradwife’

Dave: First, let’s break down what the term ‘tradwife’ means. The word ‘tradwife’ is short for ‘traditional wife.’ It typically refers to a woman who embraces traditional gender roles in marriage—being a homemaker, supporting her husband as the primary breadwinner, and prioritizing family life over a career.

The term has gained attention in debates about feminism, gender equality, and family structure. Some view it as a return to “simpler times,” while others see it as a threat to women’s rights. But as Christians, we must ask how this idea aligns with Scripture.

Biblical Insights on Gender Roles in Marriage

Dave: The Bible does teach roles for husbands and wives—not based on culture, but on God’s design.

• Genesis 2:18 — “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.”
• Ephesians 5:22–24 — Wives are called to submit to their husbands as the church submits to Christ.
• Titus 2:3–5 — Older women are to train younger women to love their husbands, work at home, and be kind.

These passages emphasize complementarity, not inequality. The husband leads in sacrificial love; the wife supports with wisdom, strength, and devotion. Homemaking is seen as a noble and God-honoring calling—but it’s not the only biblical option.

Theological Considerations of the ‘Tradwife’ Concept

Dave: The Bible gives us principles, not rigid molds. Not every Christian family will look the same. While the “tradwife” model reflects some biblical values, it shouldn’t be elevated to a standard for all Christian households.

Men and women are equal in worth (Genesis 1:27) but distinct in role. The issue is not whether a wife stays home or works outside the home—it’s whether the marriage as a whole reflects God’s design for love, leadership, and service.

Does It Matter?

Dave: Yes—but not because of labels. What matters is that husbands and wives live out their God-given roles faithfully. A woman who chooses homemaking in obedience to the Lord is honoring God. A woman who works outside the home but still submits to biblical order can honor Him too.

Don’t let the culture define your marriage—let God’s Word do that.

Conclusion

Dave: The tradwife idea isn’t necessarily unbiblical—but it must be measured by Scripture, not nostalgia or culture wars. God’s design is rooted in complementarity, love, and service. That’s where our focus must be.

Thanks for listening to this episode of Anchored in the Word. If you have a question, we’d love to hear it. You can submit it at servantsofgrace.org/contact.

For more like this please visit our YouTube.