Over the years, I’ve read many books that have helped me to understand the role of women in the body of Christ.
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In my early days as a Christian in the UK, the stream of churches we were part of held the traditional view of women–they could lead prayer meetings, children’s and women’s ministry and make the coffee. They were not allowed to have any kind of strategic leadership role.
This viewpoint was ingrained in me for many years. (I disliked it intensely, but if this was what God had for me as a woman, then I would submit to it–although I have to admit to doing more than my fair share of grumbling and complaining! I might be sitting down on the outside, but inside I was definitely standing up.)
Aside from my own study of the Scriptures, books by various authors played a large part in setting me free. I’ve read fairly extensively around this topic. Here are ten of my favorites:
Why Not Women : A Biblical Study of Women in Missions, Ministry, and Leadership
What’s With Paul and Women?
Ten Lies The Church Tells Women: How the Bible has been misused to keep women in spiritual bondage
For Such a Time as This
Man and Woman, One in Christ: An Exegetical and Theological Study of Paul’s Letters
Unladylike: Resisting the Injustice of Inequality in the Church
The Fall of Patriarchy: Its Broken Legacy Judged by Jesus & the Apostolic House Church Communities
Powerful and Free: Confronting the Glass Ceiling for Women in the Church by Danny Silk is a recognition of the stained glass ceiling for women and an appeal for equality in the church.
Beyond Sex Roles: What the Bible Says about a Woman’s Place in Church and Family
How I Changed My Mind about Women in Leadership: Compelling Stories from Prominent Evangelicals
Add to this a Kindle-only book, Junia Is Not Alone
I’d love to hear what other books you’ve found helpful on this subject
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