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Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Gender Equality



America has made great advancements in regards to gender equality in ministry. Women are finally championing these changes, instead of shouting foul. Showing that the Spirit is able to empower the church without regards to past failure. Unfortunately, the secular world is not forgiving. The most vocal patrons continue to accuse the church of gender inequality and sexual harassment. The media accuses the church of being too traditional and old-fashioned, when they themselves refuse to acknowledge the church’s advancements and/or compromises.
Is the media’s accusations based in bitterness, or is the media simply looking for a tantalizing story? Why do they continue to disregard the glory of the church’s contributions to society? I will continue to argue that the secular world is more interested in a tantalizing story. Accepting the truth will require much of our society. Not accepting the church’s advancements proves that persecution continues today. Most of the world is anti-Christian.
Similar to Israeli politics, the church is giving into the secular world’s demands. Despite these compromises, the secular world continues to berate the church for past failure.
Thankfully, Christian women have an extreme desire to love, forgive, and nurture. Becky Duhram, affiliated with Presbyterian Church of Henderson, KY, admits, “I cannot think of anyone who does not support me that is a member of our church.”
Becky Durham shares a story that proves how difficult it is for women to be in the pastorate. Durham was carrying a baby around the sanctuary. A church lady said, ‘Oh, are you playing mommy?’” Pastor Becky quickly forgives the female, aware that she meant no harm. However, the female’s statement did stick with Becky.
Obviously, these types of harmless statements make women emotional and offended. Successful women don’t want to deal with pregnant jokes when they are working for the church. They want to prove the can serve the church without being reminded of their gender.
Laurie Atz, involved in Chi Alpha and First Assembly of God in Fort Wayne, admits she hasn’t faced any personal harassment as a woman. However, she has encountered men who have difficulty in following her leadership. However, her successful Young Adult’s ministry has produced great fruit for the kingdom.
Therefore, despite the secular’s ignorance, the church is more gender neutral than the current society. The government is more controversial than the church because we continue to teach humility and loving one’s neighbor.

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