I generally define myself as a “soft-Complementarian” when it comes to my understanding of how Scripture informs us concerning the issue of women serving in ministry. In a nutshell, I hesitate at seeing Scripture affirming women as Elders (Pastors, Overseers) but do not see a problem with women teaching or preaching within the context of the local church gatherings. I suppose I could even state that I believe that the normative way in which a “senior” church leadership team should exist is by having men as a part of that group. That means that I’m not necessarily opposed to women being “team members” nor that I think this is the way it must always be (hence the use of my word “normative”).
Yet I should say that I’m increasingly aware that I may be either moving closer to Egalitarianism or at least more open to exploring the issue. If you are an Egalitarian, please refrain from recommending all of the wonderful books you own or have written or know will change my life. I probably already own them 🙂
There’s three blogs that I think everyone should take a look at. Two include videos and the third is a decent introduction to the way that trajectory works within certain perspectives concerning hermeneutics. Check them out:
- Ben Witherington, Women in Ministry 1 – This was posted by Scot McKnight and includes a seven minute video of Ben Witherington speaking on the issue of women in ministry.
- Ben Witherington, Women in Ministry 2 – This is the second video.
- Scott Lencke on what a trajectory is – Interested in how “movement” takes place in theological thinking? This is a good intro.
What do you think?
Luke is a pastor-theologian living in northern California, serving as a co-lead pastor with his life, Dawn, at the Red Bluff Vineyard. Father of five amazing kids, when Luke isn’t hanging with his family, reading or writing theology, he moonlights as a fly fishing guide for Confluence Outfitters. He blogs regularly at LukeGeraty.com and regularly contributes to his YouTube channel.
You said: If you are an Egalitarian, please refrain from recommending all of the wonderful books you own or have written or know will change my life. I probably already own them and I’m not so interested in this subject that I have to figure it out right this second. Thanks though!
Well, you could just read all my articles and you wouldn’t have to read books. 🙂
Thanks for the link.
 LOL!
It is so alarming that such an issue can and has caused major friction in the body of Christ. I understand both sides and can’t say I am more persuaded with one side versus the other, sadly it becomes a matter of context most of the time. I tend to take may stands though with you luke when cornered.