I had the opportunity to engage in a discussion last weekend with a group of college age young adults and young married couples. We focused on the book of Acts. While tackling the high standards elders are suppose to possess we ran into the roll of women in the church. One of the younger single women spoke about the responsibilty being totally the men's. Leadership and such. I couldn't believe out of the mouth of babes I was hearing exactly what I would have said at her age 6 years ago. My view has been altered a little by my wonderful broad thinking husband who has caused me to question these oppressive answers that I used to think would bring me to a closer to God, holier me. Be submissive, don't teach men, don't speak at a gathering, ask your hubby when you get home, don't be in leadership. . .
Some facts about the women in the Bible that have been brought to my attention of late is that there were women who traveled with Jesus. There were women apostles. Who was with Jesus to what seemed his end?? Women. Who did Jesus reveal himself first to when he rose again? Women.
I'm not coming from a feminist mind set here. I'm just questioning the conservative teachings that I have hid behind for so man years. These teachings that I hear young women clinging to as I did cause me to step back and realize how oppressive it sounds and see how it doesn't quite line up with the Gospel of Christ.
So many questions floating in my head. Are we all equal in Christ. . . "niether male of female". . . Why have I held onto these teachings? How have they effected my serving, my relationships, my family?
