In “Breaking the House Rules” (September), Matt Carlson seems to be trying to excuse scripture for imposing, in Ephesians 5 and 6, what we now see as unjust behavior within human relationships. He almost treats them as helpful hints for peaceful coexistence in marriage and in the broader society. Perhaps they can be used that way, but even Luther’s label, Haustafeln, or household codes, misses the point of Paul’s exhortation. These are not mere contemporary rules that can be mined for underlying principles of successful relationships today. Paul is introducing a next-level spiritual aspect that can exist in our relationships and that transcends — and maybe subverts — the material aspects of a marriage. He makes this clear when he says, “I am talking about Christ and the church” (Ephesians 5:32). Christian marriage as an image of Christ and the church brings a whole new understanding. The idea of domination existing within the union of Christ and the church is preposterous. “Ruling over,” or lordship, does not imply subjugation or oppression in the kingdom of God. So also should it be in marriage and all Christian relationships.

Ed Wiens, Vancouver, B.C.