Women in the Church: One Woman's Thoughts

Lately I've been thinking a lot about women in the Christian church. As a woman and a Christian, I'm concerned. I'm just thinking in print here, so don't get all uptight, but I don't think I can agree with people who say women shouldn't be pastors or ministers. I can respect them, because I understand why they believe what they do, but at this point I can't agree.

I don't see good enough evidence that women shouldn't have these roles. Some say that traditionally women weren't pastors. Well, I don't say this callously, but so what? If, since the time Jesus appeared on earth, we've been learning and moving toward the kingdom, then maybe we should learn that women can lead the church. And, of course, disciples have traditionally been slow learners. Maybe it's just another case of "You thick people! Don't you understand yet?"

Really, I don't see any other substantial arguments except the one for tradition. The parts in the Bible dealing with women in the church most likely dealt with preserving the status quo of the time. The passages that say the man should be the head deal specifically with a marriage situation. I just don't see a good enough argument for keeping women out of pastor roles. I think the main reason we balk is that we aren't used to it. We can't imagine a woman minister, so of course it feels strange. And I'm not saying that any woman could be a minister. As with men, it takes a special gift and calling. And if a woman has that, I see no reason to not let her use it.

Perhaps I am wrong. I'm only saying what I feel makes the most sense in light of my understanding of Jesus.

People often become very emotional over this topic. Actually, people often become very emotional over many discussions about church issues. I can appreciate that, though I rarely feel that way myself. While the issues are very important to me, and I spend a great deal of time thinking about them, I don't feel that all the passion we give to these issues is always justified. Airing feelings honestly is the only way to grow. I don't think that discussion and disagreement offend God. He is more mighty than that. Of course, we should try to agree and work towards reconciliation, but I think we should do it by honestly trying to see the other side and then, if we can't agree, at least agree to not stop communicating.