The role of women in the church is an ongoing concern among Christians, both in the West and in the developing world. The discussion usually falls into the broad views of complementary and egalitarian positions. The former view considers the role of women to be restricted at least in the one area of teaching authoritatively a whole congregation as an elder or pastor. The egalitarian view places no restrictions on the role of women anywhere, whether in or out of the church. In this book the author challenges both views. He proposes a paradigm representing a biblical world view that acknowledges the influence of biblical authority, culture, and the increasing actualizing of equality in Christ that the Gospel proclaims. He cites the observance of the Sabbath that was once universally authoritative--based in Creation--but no longer is as a parallel for developing an understanding of the role of women in the church. Where does his proposal lead? His conclusion is surprising.
