|
Probation Officer Response
I have been working in the field of domestic violence since 1988. Since that time, there have been instances of which I am aware where a faith leader has enabled the abuser and further oppressed the victim.
When a spouse discloses abuse in a relationship, clergy members sometimes respond by stating the wife needs to “submit” to her husband, based on the passage in Ephesians 5:23. I do not oppose the use of Scripture, but my interpretation differs with the way it is often applied in cases of spousal abuse.
Pastors and faith-community counsellors need to consider carefully their theological position regarding submission, particularly in the context of domestic violence. It also needs to be understood in view of the total understanding of the character of Christ. A wife needs to submit to her husband “as to the Lord.” If a husband loves his wife as Christ loves the church (Ephesians 5:25), this love is provisional and self-sacrificial, but never abusive. A husband who loves his own body (Ephesians 5:28) would not rationally submit his body or mind to an abusive relationship.
There was a time when societal values permitted the “rod of discipline” to be used by a husband. A very simple study of Psalm 23, combined with the understanding of the nature of a sheep and the character of a good shepherd, leads one to understand “Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23:4) would never lead a person to conclude the rod is an instrument of physical abuse by a shepherd upon the sheep.
Faith communities often serve as gate keepers for the preservation of marriage and harmony within the home. To best serve the interests of families in crisis, however, pastors and others offering counsel should be clear in their theological understanding of the Holy Scripture in the context of domestic violence.
If you knew the person who came to you for comfort and counsel would be either hospitalized or buried tomorrow, what counsel would you give today?
Bruce Llewellyn, Acting Assistant Chief Probation Officer Calgary, AB
|
