Today's Journal

NEITHER MALE OR FEMALE

Gordon Fee (1934-2022) theologian and New Testament scholar and author wrote: “It is hard to imagine under any circumstances how the denial of one half the human race to minister to the other half brings glory to the gospel, which intends to break down such barriers and bring redemption to the whole body.” The overarching theological message of the New Testament is perceived to be egalitarian, and that is thought to provide a sufficient affirmative argument.”
Fee continues that 1 Timothy 2:11-12 is probably a local issue and not a universal principle… “Women should learn quietly and submissively. I do not let women teach men or have authority over them. Let them listen quietly.” (From: ‘Gospel and Spirit’)
If it is only men elders, apostles, prophets, evangelist, pastors and teachers… then the Protestant model is not unlike the Catholic model of unmarried…men only priests…and unmarried women only nuns. A ‘good ol’ boys and girls club.’ It also means that the Holy Spirit gives pink and blue gifts by gender. I don’t believe that to be the case. Should half of the entire Body of Christ shut-up, sit down and be quiet, have babies and cook Mac and Cheese? Not in my mind and not in our home.
Paul, an apostle, wrote: “For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes. There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:26-28).

 “I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one. They do not belong to this world any more than I do. Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.” Jesus