Fashioned to Reign

1. Women's empowerment is rooted in biblical truth, not modern feminism

We were made in the image and likeness of God, therefore we were designed for intimacy . . . not just for mating for reproduction.

Divine design for equality. From the beginning, God created both men and women in His image, giving them equal authority to reign over the earth. This fundamental truth establishes the basis for women's empowerment, not as a modern construct, but as a divine intention.

Misunderstood creation narrative. The story of Eve being created from Adam's rib has often been misinterpreted to justify women's subordination. However, a deeper understanding reveals that Eve was taken from Adam's side, symbolizing equality and partnership, not inferiority.

Overcoming cultural biases. Throughout history, cultural and religious biases have obscured this biblical truth, leading to the oppression of women. Recognizing and challenging these biases is crucial for restoring God's original design for gender equality.

2. Jesus championed gender equality, challenging cultural norms

Jesus is perfect theology.

Countercultural behavior. Jesus consistently defied societal norms in His interactions with women:

• Teaching women alongside men
• Allowing women to travel with Him
• Engaging in deep theological discussions with women
• Appearing first to women after His resurrection

Elevating women's status. Through His actions and teachings, Jesus:

• Affirmed women's intellectual and spiritual capacity
• Challenged the patriarchal system of His time
• Demonstrated the value of women in God's kingdom

Setting a new standard. Jesus' treatment of women established a model for the early church and continues to challenge modern believers to reconsider their views on gender roles and equality.

3. Misinterpretation of Scripture has led to women's oppression in the church

Reading the Bible without knowing the heart of God and being guided by the Holy Spirit can lead to deception, bondage and even death.

Context is key. Many passages used to restrict women's roles in the church have been taken out of context, ignoring:

• Historical and cultural settings
• The author's original intent
• The broader message of Scripture

Selective application. Often, restrictive passages about women are applied universally, while other culturally-specific instructions are disregarded.

Consequences of misinterpretation:

• Limited leadership opportunities for women
• Underutilization of women's gifts and talents
• Perpetuation of gender inequality in the church and society

4. Paul's "restrictive" passages on women are contextual, not universal

Paul is not saying women unilaterally should be silent in church. He is saying that these women who are being disruptive need to "keep silent" in these particular services and get their questions answered privately later.

Understanding Paul's context. Paul's seemingly restrictive statements about women were addressing specific issues in particular churches, not establishing universal rules.

Cultural influences. Many of Paul's instructions were responding to:

• Pagan worship practices involving women
• Disruptive behavior in church meetings
• Misunderstandings about Christian freedom

Balanced perspective. When viewed in light of Paul's other writings and actions, which include:

• Commending women leaders
• Partnering with women in ministry
• Affirming equality in Christ
  It becomes clear that Paul was not advocating for the universal subordination of women.

5. Men and women have distinct strengths that complement each other

God never gives a physical characteristic to one of His creations without it affecting the created one's divinely appointed role in life.

Recognizing differences. Men and women have unique strengths and tendencies that, when combined, create a more complete representation of God's image:

• Women: Often more intuitive, nurturing, and compassionate
• Men: Often more protective, analytical, and action-oriented

Complementary roles. These differences are not meant to establish a hierarchy but to create synergy in partnerships, families, and communities.

Avoiding stereotypes. While acknowledging general tendencies, it's crucial to remember that individuals vary greatly and should not be confined to rigid gender roles.

6. Empowering women benefits society and fulfills God's design

It is past time for men to scoot over and allow our matriarchs to co-reign with us to help bring the Kingdom of God to a desperate and dying world.

Untapped potential. Limiting women's roles in leadership and influence has deprived society of:

• Valuable perspectives and insights
• Diverse problem-solving approaches
• Unique gifts and talents

Balancing leadership. Empowering women to lead alongside men creates:

• More compassionate and nurturing environments
• Holistic decision-making processes
• Stronger, more resilient communities

Fulfilling divine purpose. By allowing women to fully utilize their God-given abilities, we align more closely with God's original design for humanity to steward the earth together.

7. Strong women come in many forms, all equally valuable

We need to value equally the full spectrum of honorable women and empower them to be all God has called them to be.

Diverse expressions of strength. Strong women can be:

• Outspoken leaders or quiet influencers
• Career-focused or homemakers
• Nurturers or warriors (or both)

Challenging stereotypes. True strength is not about conforming to masculine ideals or societal expectations, but about living authentically in one's God-given identity.

Valuing all contributions. Whether leading from the front or supporting from behind, all roles are essential and worthy of honor when fulfilled with integrity and purpose.

8. Motherhood is a powerful and undervalued role in society

Motherhood belongs alongside the value and significance of running a multimillion-dollar corporation, being a doctor, a scientist, a soldier, an artist, a singer, a politician, a pastor or any other position that society holds in high esteem.

Shaping future generations. Mothers have unparalleled influence in:

• Forming children's core beliefs about love and security
• Instilling values and character
• Nurturing future leaders and change-makers

Underappreciated impact. Society often fails to recognize the profound importance of motherhood, leading to:

• Devaluation of stay-at-home mothers
• Lack of support for working mothers
• Diminished recognition of motherhood's societal contribution

Reframing motherhood. Elevating the status of motherhood requires:

• Acknowledging its complexity and challenges
• Providing better support systems for mothers
• Celebrating the diverse ways women balance motherhood with other roles and aspirations

Last updated: November 18, 2024