Michael F. Bird
Author and New Testament scholar Michael Bird was formerly in favor of distinct gender roles in ministry, a viewpoint commonly called "complementarianism." But inconsistencies in practice and careful biblical study convinced him to rethink his position. [This book] offers an engaging, incisive perspective on biblical gender equality and the egalitarian view - a preference for allowing women to hold teaching and leadership positions in ministry. While Bird is now egalitarian, he strikes a respectful tone toward those in his previous camp, seeking to craft a perspective that both values women and upholds biblical differences between the sexes. Humorous and hard-hitting, Bird will challenge readers on both sides of the gender-issue divide.
For the past two years, the elders at Valley Christian Church have been studying and discussing the questions at the center of this book. As part of that study, they all read this book...while I was on a year-long sabbatical (so I just now caught up by reading it myself). It's not very long, but it does a great job of explaining why the author changed his position and does it with personal humility and respect for all concerned.
First line: Many years ago, the Baptist fundamentalist john R. Rice published a polemical booklet called Bobbed Hair, Boddy Wives, and Women Preachers, written to censure women for rebellious acts like cutting their hair.
Page 56/Line 5: If I had time, I would love to document the work of indigenous women in Africa, Asia, and South America, who have faithfully served God in positions of leadership and as proclaimers of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Last line: When both sides concede as much, then perhaps the gender war will be over.
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