rule shall stand on a basis of fundamental doctrine. Subordination of rank and variety of function shall be shown to be consistent with, nay inseparable from, the Christian doctrine of spiritual equality.
St. Paul connects the subordination of wife to husband in the union of marriage with the subordination of Christ to God in the mystery of the Incarnation. The connection carried the assurance that whatever Rabbinic prejudices clouded his understanding as to the full practical significance of the equality in Christ, which the Gospel taught, were passing away.
Just as the prophetic association of monogamy with monotheism compelled a lofty doctrine of marriage, so the association of Christian marriage with the mystic union betwixt Christ and the Church inspired a sublime version of the relationship of husband and wife. Obedience implied protection; power was linked with sacrifice. Subordination was exalted by love.
