3. Egalitarianism
A view that sees both men and women as equal participants in salvation, the receipt of God’s spirit, the mission to reclaim the human race in Jesus, and thus allowing each person’s gift and relative personal and spiritual maturity to define their function in the body of Christ irrespective of their gender.
Proponents of this view might say something like, “In Christ there is neither male nor female. Neither a male nor a female should be a leader or a teacher if they are disqualified by character or capacity. But neither a male nor a female should be limited in any regard if they have both the character and capacity to lead and teach.”
Those who hold the Egalitarian perspective are, in their own defense of their position, simply using what the Bible teaches in order to arrive at this perspective. They do not believe that the view is in any way based on their baggage, their prejudice or their preference. It’s just the word of God.
4. Feminism and/or matriarchy
A typically justice-oriented view insisting on things like (a) female dominance as a way of righting a wrong or as an act of social justice, or (b) contrived equality as a way of structurally mitigating against male dominance (i.e., “We will always have one female minister, board member, deacon, etc. for every one male minister, board member, deacon, etc.).
Proponents of this view might say something like, “For too long women have been held back by chauvinism, misogyny and even by complementarianism. There is a wrong that must be righted, and the only way to do it is through this act of justice. Therefore, a woman will be our next choice for xyz ministry or position no matter what.”
Those who hold the Feminist/Matriarchy perspective are, in their own defense of their position, simply using what the Bible teaches in order to arrive at this perspective. They do not believe that the view is in any way based on their baggage, their prejudice or their preference. It’s just the word of God.
What position do I hold?
Just like my mother-in-law and my wife (read that link!)—and—did I mention, Luke Geraty?! I hold to position #3.
How about you?
