Theology for the Masses

Given the content of some of our posts here, I was wondering what the perception of people is concerning the role of women in the early church.

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Wayne Leman over at Complegalitarian looks at what Wayne Grudem said at the annual Evangelical Theological Society meeting last week.

Grudem on the State of the Gender Debate and the Way Forward

Grudem had this to say:

I am surprised that this controversy has gone on so long. In the late 80’s and early 90’s I expected that this would probably be over in 10 years by the force of argument, by the use of the facts, by careful exegesis, by the power of the clear Word of God, by the truth. I expected the entire church would be persuaded and that the battle for the purity of the church would be won. I still believe that will happen because Jesus Christ is building his church and purifying it so that he might present it to himself without spot or wrinkle. But, it is taking much longer than I expected.

Leman responded with:

The logical fallacy in Dr. Grudem’s statement, of course, is the assumption that his interpretation of the scriptures concerning the role of women in the home and church is the only possible biblical interpretation. He equates following his interpretation of the scriptures on gender issues with having a high view of scripture and its infallible truth.

A strong case could be made for the claim that the reason the gender debate is taking so long is that it truly is a matter of how Bible-believing Christians understand the scriptures about gender differently. It is not a matter of whether or not they believe the Bible and seek to have it transform our lives.

Some really good points are being brought up in the comments. I suggest heading over there and contributing to the discussion.