Christians for Biblical Equality
Mutuality Let us then pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding. – Romans 14:19
Building an Equal Marriage By Debbie Menagh – pg 6 Jennifer Kang has decided to be a stay-at-home mom, and her husband, Tony, is a software engineer. Find out why this traditional arrangement is actually an equal partnership.
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Who’s in Charge Here? By the Rev. Susan Finck-Lockhart – pg 10 Who makes the final decision when a couple has reached an impasse? Finck-Lockhart outlines a way to solve problems with God in charge.
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Words of Worth: Gender-Accurate Language in Bible Translation By Joanne Nystrom Janssen – pg 16 Does Jesus call us to become fishers of “men” or of “people”? Does it even matter? Scholars, church leaders and people in the pew explain why it matters to them.
SUMMER 2002
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FEATURES
6 Building an Equal Marriage: How One Couple’s Beliefs are Shaping Their Marriage Discover how Jennifer and Tony Kang base their personal, career and family decisions on their beliefs about equality.
9 Equality in Community Jon and Carol Trott explain how their views of malefemale relationships changed when they became members of a Christian community.
10 Who’s in Charge Here? Discerning the Lord’s Leading in Marriage Personal stories and biblical insights reveal the benefits of seeking God’s plan for your marriage through prayer with your spouse.
10 Overcoming Obstacles in Prayer Once you’ve decided to seek God’s will for your family, how do you overcome significant experiential and theological roadblocks to a partnered prayer life?
16 Words of Worth: Gender-Accurate
DEPARTMENTS
3 From the Editor 4 In Our Mailbox 15 Honor Within Our Ranks
22 Office Highlights 23 Church News “Does Your Church Support Women in Ministry? Somebody Wants to Know”
24 Prayer Update 26 The Chapters Corner 28 Book Review “The Christian Family in Changing Times”
29 Book Service News
Language in Bible Translation Today’s New International Version has raised some important questions about Bible translation and language, especially as it relates to gender.
30 President’s Message “Embracing Today’s New International Version”
31 CBE’s Statement of Faith
31 Membership Application
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Mutuality
SUMMER 2002 Mutuality (ISSN: 1533-2470) is published quarterly by Christians for Biblical Equality and is sent free to members and donors. Mission Statement Mutuality seeks to provide inspiration, encouragement and information about equality within the Christian church around the world. President:
Mimi Haddad
Operations Manager:
Mary Seltzer
Finance Coordinator & Library and Church Liaison:
Mary Gonsior
Book Service Coordinator: IT Coordinator:
Joanne Nystrom Janssen Nathan St. Clair
Executive Assistant:
Sarah Edwards
International & Membership Coordinator:
Julia Bloom
Conference Coordinator:
Michelle Morzov
Publisher:
Mimi Haddad
Mutuality Editor:
Joanne Nystrom Janssen joannej@cbeinternational.org
Editorial Intern:
Elsa Petersen
Contributors:
Our Readers
Printing:
Jacob’s Ladder Printing Jon Estenson jacobs@runestone.net
Art Direction & Design:
Susie Larson larsonkl@wcta.net
Article deadline for next issue: July 1, 2002
SEND ALL CORRESPONDENCE AND ADDRESS CHANGES TO:
Christians for Biblical Equality 122 West Franklin Ave., Suite 218 Minneapolis, MN 55404-2451 Phone: (612) 872-6898 • Fax: (612) 872-6891 E-mail: cbe@cbeinternational.org
VISIT US ON THE WEB! www.cbeinternational.org
F ROM THE EDITOR At CBE we call marriage “ground zero” for the debate about women’s places in the church and the home. We’ve found that Joanne Nystrom understanding God’s design for a woman and Janssen a man in that relationship is essential for Editor understanding how women and men can work together to further the gospel. If the two can’t stand on the same plane in a one-on-one relationship, how will they be able to treat each other as equals in a ministry environment? Within marriage, true mutuality is hard to come by. Even though most couples sincerely want to respect one another’s gifts and opinions, it doesn’t always work in day-to-day life. Cooperating in the decision-making process sounds ideal until you find a decision about which you strongly disagree. What do you do if your husband wants to have another baby but you don’t? How do you appreciate your wife’s gift of money management when you would like to take a vacation but she says funds are too tight? Many couples don’t have a model of husbands and wives living as equal partners, so they don’t know how to live out the kind of relationship they believe to be worthwhile. In this issue, you can read about Tony and Jennifer Kang, a couple committed to having an equal partnership marriage. They share the joys and challenges they have faced in the first years of their marriage. Jon and Carol Trott offer insights on their life in a Christian community in Chicago and how it has given them a unique perspective on gender roles in relationships and in the church. Also, Susan Finck-Lockhart outlines a way couples can seek God’s will for a marriage, without the dominance of either spouse. We hope these articles spark your interest in what you could learn at our September marriage conference. (Details on pages 13-14.) This issue also addresses a new Bible translation called Today’s New International Version (TNIV). Because it uses gender-accurate language for people, this version is faithful to the intentions of the original authors and the objectives of Bible translation. See what scholars, church leaders and people in the pew have to say about this translation in “Words of Worth.” To gain further insights about its significance, read President Mimi Haddad’s column on page 30. Join us in welcoming the TNIV to CBE’s shelves — with gratitude for its improved clarity and accuracy.
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I N OUR MAILBOX DAUGHTERS SEEK TRUTH I was impressed with the last Mutuality’s article on daughters raised egalitarian. My daughter has been asking some questions lately and has been talking with her girlfriends about things in the Bible that upset her. I am thankful there are resources for her that I didn’t know existed when I had the same thoughts. I am thankful to God for CBE, because it is still a rough road. California The spring Mutuality is inspiring as well as thought-provoking. I have a 24-year-old daughter who is struggling with equality issues in her marriage. She has heard me “rant and rave” about injustices I have encountered in the past, especially within the church, and now these problems are sitting on her doorstep. Wisconsin I was blessed by last issue’s article, “Daughters of Confidence.” This is an area of great importance; we need to pray for young women who face gender struggles and peer pressure in the church. Thanks for such a fine article. California
BROADCASTING THE BIBLE This morning I talked to the host of the largest Christian radio station in Florida when he asked his listeners to call in about the TNIV [Today’s New International Version]. I informed him that the terms used for God, demons and angels remain the same, and that pronouns referring specifically to men and women are retained. I told the host that the New Living Translation already has this format and added that one of the most obvious changes is “brothers and sisters.” At that point, the host said, “So this really has to do with the intent of the author.” “Exactly” was my response, and I added that this version is not “gender neutral,” but rather “gender accurate.” I am thrilled that the Lord let me tell people what the “new” NIV will say and will not say. Hopefully, this will dispel fear and encourage people to check into it themselves. Florida
TNIV REACHES HEARTS I’m glad you speak out and are heard as in the current issue about Today’s NIV! All of my years of
association with CBE are of great value in my life and through me to the lives of other women and men. Washington I picked up a copy of the TNIV and I like it very much. Thanks for all your work towards biblical equality. I am glad we have people like you! New York
WOMEN LEADING THE CHURCH I’ve been searching for an organization that affirms women’s roles in ministry. My wife and I belong to a non-denominational charismatic church. We have many female leaders as well as a [female] co-pastor who has been a tremendous blessing to both of us. I’m also thankful to see that many men of high standing in the evangelical community support this cause. Thank you for including me in this great move of God. Ohio Tonight was the second time that women served the Lord’s Supper in our church. One of the women leaders came up to us obviously looking for something. My pastor said, “Can I help you find something?” She replied, “We need some people to serve communion.” My pastor volunteered to find men, but she interrupted, “No! We need husband/wife teams. Men and women.” She asked my pastor’s wife [and another woman]! The two women burst into tears and were completely overwhelmed. [My pastor] truly saw the love of God in their hearts. Texas
INSPIRED BY LETTERS I have been a member of CBE from the early days, and I appreciate hearing from Christian women and men from all over the world: those who have just discovered the message of equality, and those who have appreciated and cherished it over the years. I never cease to praise the Lord for CBE, its dedicated board and staff and its scholarly writers. Thank you for the Spring 2002 issue of Mutuality, a tremendously powerful issue. Minnesota
STUDY REVEALS BIBLICAL SUPPORT Once I was free from a 42-year abusive marriage, I began to concentrate on studying. I discovered that the biblical texts that are used to limit gifted women
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are very controversial, but the texts that support women are numerous. The lack of gender specification in any of the lists of gifts would be the most logical (and God is logical) place to specify male or female roles. Massachusetts
THE POWER OF PUBLICATIONS I was a member of CBE in the past and now after letting my membership lapse for a few years, I am gladly renewing! I think highly of your ministry and the great resources you offer. I will look forward to Priscilla Papers and Mutuality. Minnesota I really appreciate this ministry and the resources that are available. I have had a Christian bookstore trying to locate “Equal to Serve,” and found that it is out of print. It is an excellent book, so I was elated to see that it is a free gift with membership. Missouri
INTERNATIONAL NETWORKING I’m so glad that a friend of mine in the U.S. pointed me to your organization. It’s great to know that others also believe in equality! Switzerland
WIDESPREAD NEED FOR EQUALITY Thanks for promoting equality in our church. Here in New England many conservative churches still believe that all women need to submit to men. Knowing you are going strong and are blessed by him who is our all comforts my soul. Vermont God bless you! You have expressed beautifully everything I believe in. I am a Roman Catholic female who is proud to be one, and even our bishops recognize that more can be done for the inclusion of women. E-mail
CBE SUPPORTS GOD’S TRUTH The needs of women have been at the forefront of my life and consciousness, and God’s voice has been saying, “I love my daughters. They need to know my love for them.” But I have been frustrated because of all the mixed messages about women within the church. I was encouraged to know that there are people out there [who are] firmly committed to knowing God’s truth about women. Thank you so much for the work you are doing. E-mail
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SUBMISSIONS Mutuality welcomes submissions of personal stories illustrating how biblical equality provides practical benefits to everyday lives. Along with your name and address, please include a daytime phone number and email address where we can reach you. Mutuality reserves the right to edit all contributions so that the policies and positions of Christians for Biblical Equality are maintained and for clarity, style or length. E-mail submissions are preferred (cbe@cbeinternational.org). Mutuality reserves the right to use or not use any story and to include your full name. Materials will not be returned, unless requested and accompanied by a selfaddressed envelope with sufficient postage. Christians for Biblical Equality grants permission for any original article (not a reprint) to be photocopied for use locally provided no more than 1,000 copies are made, are distributed free, the author is acknowledged and CBE is recognized as the source.
ADVERTISING Mutuality is now accepting advertisements. Rates are $75 for 1/8 page, $125 for 1/4 page, $175 for 1/2 page, and $275 for a full page. Mutuality reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. Copy for advertisements should be sent camera-ready. Please call or e-mail CBE for ad specifications. Mutuality’s liability for errors or omissions in connection with an advertisement is strictly limited to publication of the advertisement in any subsequent issue or the refund of any monies paid for the advertisement.
CONTRIBUTIONS Contributions: Christians for Biblical Equality gratefully accepts tax-deductible contributions to further the truth of biblical equality. We accept contributions in U.S. funds by check or credit card. Donate online at www.cbeinternational.org, call us tollfree at 1-877-285-2256, or write us at: Christians for Biblical Equality, 122 West Franklin Ave., Suite 218, Minneapolis, MN 55404-2451.
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B UILDING AN EQUAL MARRIAGE: HOW ONE COUPLE’S BELIEFS ARE SHAPING THEIR MARRIAGE By Debbie Menagh
where he appreciated the gifted teaching of both men and women. “I never realized that keeping women out of ministry and leadership was such a huge issue until I met Jennifer and learned of her struggles,” he says.
Jennifer and Tony Kang have found through experience that people don’t always know how to treat a couple when the wife is in a formal ministry role and the husband is not. “I appreciate the opportunity to gently blow their perception,” says Called to Ministry Jennifer, who is ordained as a deacon While both Tony and Jennifer had in the Anglican Mission in America come to affirm women in ministry, (AMiA). Tony works as a software they didn’t realize how close to home engineer. the issue would become. After they In the two years they’ve been married, they attended an Anglican married, the Kangs have encountered church, and even though Jennifer had challenges and delights unique to a Jennifer and Tony Kang’s attended seminary, she hadn’t planned engagement photo. marriage where both are committed on ordination. to an equal partnership. As they One weekend at a church grow together, they continue to prove leadership event, someone asked that marriages based on shared authority can be Jennifer if she was considering ordination. She successful. simply said no. “You should pray about it” was the
Finding Equality in Christ Honoring each other as equals has become the norm for Tony and Jennifer, but they didn’t always have a clear vision of God’s design for marriage. Raised Catholic, Jennifer began attending an evangelical fellowship in college where she gained a deeper understanding of what it meant to be a follower of Christ. However, the church sent mixed messages about women. The leaders spoke highly of a woman’s responsibility to use her gifts, but Jennifer noticed there were no women on the deacon board, elder board or pastoral team. “I began to realize that the church would restrict what someone could do because she was a woman,” she says. Jennifer came to understand the scope of this debate in the Christian church, and she soon found support for her beliefs in CBE. Tony’s upbringing wasn’t particularly religious. Shortly after he graduated from college, he accepted Christ at a volleyball outreach at Willow Creek Community Church — a large, egalitarian church in South Barrington, Ill. He became a member there,
reply. Another asked if she was in the ordination process. Again, Jennifer said no. But she was seeing a trend, so she prayed, “Lord, I’m not really sure about this, but if one more person asks me if I’m getting ordained, I will at least pray about it.” Five minutes after this hesitant prayer, another person asked, “Are you thinking of pursuing ordination?” Jennifer began praying earnestly about it, and after much counsel, discernment and encouragement, she decided to pursue ordination. Last November, Jennifer was ordained as a deacon by AMiA. In the Anglican Church, deacons are ordained clergy members who have specific liturgical roles at worship services and pastoral roles in the church. Their church was supportive of Jennifer’s calling. She has, however, faced many challenges as a woman, since the AMiA has not set an official policy on women in ministry. “My ordination became politically charged because I am a woman, and I found myself being discussed at very high levels that would normally not concern themselves with the ordination of a deacon!” Jennifer says. “Unfortunately, this
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prolonged the process much longer than had I been male. It was frustrating at times, but I felt the Lord called me to this time and place for a purpose larger than myself.”
and she didn’t want to work full-time once she had children.
Getting Ready for Baby
In anticipation of the birth of their first child, Jennifer recently quit her full-time position as ministry director of The Greenhouse, an Because Jennifer is in a formal ministry role, the organization that plants churches and trains leaders Kangs have noticed that they are treated differently for AMiA. (Jennifer’s ordination is separate from as a couple. When people find out Jennifer is the paid job she had, and she ordained, they often will be able to continue serving assume Tony is as a deacon.) ordained or Jennifer plans to be a fullinvolved in time mom, while Tony vocational ministry. continues to support the The Kangs also family. Even though this sense an expectation arrangement seems traditional, that Tony be the couple’s egalitarian beliefs involved in ministry give them a great sense of to the same extent as freedom in their choice. Jennifer. Before they The decision to stay home were married, no wasn’t hard at all, Jennifer one seemed to have says. “I always a problem with planned on staying Jennifer leading home when I had classes and Bible kids,” she says, studies. Now she feels In the above photo, the couple steers a “because I believe it that some people swan paddleboat at Walt Disney World and the photo at right shows Tony is best for the would prefer comother to stay with leadership. During the driving a boat there. The Kangs also enjoy many outdoor the baby as much as ordination process activities. Below, Jen gets ready for a possible.” Jennifer also noticed bike tour in Banff, Canada. Jennifer doesn’t that people seemed think this view relieved that she was makes her a not pursuing the priesthood. traditionalist. “I do Someone seeking ordination will not hold to strict generally spend some time discerning role interpretations if they are called to the diaconate or the for men and priesthood, Jennifer says. Her bishop, women,” she says. While there are some someone she describes as “a godly, undeniable differences between men and evangelical and somewhat egalitarianwomen, she says it is an illogical leap to minded man,” encouraged Jennifer to say that differences equal hierarchy. do this, because he saw that her gifts When they first discussed the issue, could be used in either capacity. Tony was surprised that Jennifer wanted to “However, I noticed with other stay home. He thought they’d both keep people — both clergy and lay — that working, and he was concerned that there was often a subtle sigh of relief Jennifer might get bored staying at home. when I said I was not pursuing the However, quitting her job doesn’t mean priesthood,” Jennifer says. “I almost Jennifer has abandoned all aspects of career wanted to go into the priesthood just to life. She keeps close ties to her past make a point!” Jennifer pursued the diaconate, however, - continued on page 8 because the priesthood is generally a full-time role,
Subtle Expectations
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Equal Marriage - continued from page 7 ministry and does free-lance writing. Staying in touch with those people and contributing to the ongoing ministry is important to her. Tony is also determined to be actively involved with their children. His career choices and work schedule allow him to spend about 40-45 hours on the job, while using much of the remaining time to be with his family. “Jen and I have prioritized,” he says. “And, I really want to be with my kids — to get to know them, to build into who they are and not regret when I’m older that I’ve missed their growing up.”
The newlyweds walk down the aisle following the wedding ceremony.
Mutual Respect and Shared Authority So what is it about an equal partnership that makes Jennifer and Tony consider it an empowering living arrangement? How will their household differ from other Christian households where mom stays home with the kids? “I can do this so gladly because it is a free choice that I have made and not one that I have felt pressured to make by the church, our Christian subculture, my family, or even my husband,” Jennifer says. “Being a stay-at-home mom does not mean I am in a subservient position. It means I am doing something different from what Tony does. We are still fully equal, even though he is the one making the money.” Tony is thankful to have a strong partner in Jennifer. “My wife is a capable and intelligent woman,” he says, “and a huge benefit I see in egalitarian marriages is equal input and responsibility for the family.” An equal partnership marriage is hallmarked by respect for each other’s opinions and confidence in a spouse’s ability to make family decisions, he says. Tony still has primary responsibility for providing an income. But that is far different from having sole responsibility for the overall direction of their family. Tony is convinced “that is a burden best shared by two adults committed to each other and to God.” As they look at their future together, Tony and Jennifer share a common goal to serve God through their marriage. As they put it: “We hope to model what a godly marriage can be like, how it is uniquely capable of allowing both partners to grow as persons and develop their gifts to the fullest extent.”
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The Kangs at Jennifer’s ordination.
Debbie Menagh is a corporate communications professional and free-lance writer. She lives in the Chicago suburbs with her husband, David.
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Q&A: EQUALITY IN COMMUNITY Q&A female leadership. However, as strong as my belief is, the flesh dies hard. The human inclination to dominate or avoid being dominated gets in the way of loving one another. CAROL: I originally thought that women were always supposed to submit to men, as long as the man wasn’t leading the woman into sin. I Jon and Carol Trott are members of Jesus People USA thought that since (JPUSA) Covenant Church, a Christian community in Chicago. Jon is editor-in-chief of Cornerstone magazine someone had to make and Carol serves as co-coordinator of the Leland Project, final decisions, it should a second-stage housing program for homeless women be the man’s job. Jon and I and children. Q: What is unique are growing into a about male/female different understanding. relationships within the JPUSA community? We are learning to submit and listen to each other, CAROL: Many of the men do laundry. Wasn’t but it is a constant, life-long lesson. that supposed to be a woman’s job? Men in our community certainly share the raising of children — Q: What advice can you share with those on a changing diapers, babysitting, anything that’s journey to understanding how God might use needed. Also, we all focus on treating each other women and men? with respect, dignity and godliness and don’t raise JON: It is important to remember that focusing questions based solely on gender. on titles and job descriptions is a huge destructive JON: Our ideas about male/female relationships force in allowing true leadership to emerge. At are rooted in the Scriptures emphasized by most JPUSA most leadership makes itself known before evangelicals, along with the stories of Sarah and any title is conferred. People step out and start Abraham, Ruth and Boaz, and the Shulammite and leading, in big things and in very small things. True the shepherd. Those examples show us that men leadership ought to come out of love for God, love and women were meant to be equal partners, but for one’s sisters and brothers, and affirmed ability sin caused a male-dominant hierarchy to take in the particular field of ministry. I think the church shape. Christ overcame the domination of sin so we should encourage members to be proactive, to come are now, as believers, free to submit one to the up with creative ministry opportunities on their other, seeking the other’s good — not just our own. own. Perhaps the great gift of community is to realize CAROL: All people are equal in the eyes of God. how needy each of us is. He loves each one of us dearly. God has the ability to do this because he is God. It is all a matter of Q: What is your personal experience with gender submitting to him, and receiving his love and grace. equality in leadership and marriage? We are called to seek him wholeheartedly, surrender JON: I experienced Dawn Mortimer’s leadership to him, and use our gifts and talents for him, as she edited Cornerstone Magazine until 2001. Her individually and in community. strong leadership and philosophy of “people first, ■ task second” showed me the potential quality of By Elsa Petersen Editor’s Note: Jon and Carol Trott are members of Jesus People USA (JPUSA) in Chicago, a group of believers practicing gender-equal relationships while living in community and working in ministry. Living with 500 other people gives the Trotts a unique perspective on gender roles in relationships and in the church. They will speak at CBE’s marriage conference in September.
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Overcoming Obstacles in Prayer There are significant theological and experiential obstacles for spouses mutually seeking God’s will through prayer. Many believers teach that God speaks only through Scripture. This means that believers are counseled to “make a wise decision” if their specific situation is not addressed in the Bible. The idea that God does not speak to individual believers comes from a rationalistic, postenlightenment, but not necessarily biblical worldview. In Brad Long and Doug McMurry’s book, “Collapse of the Brass Heaven,” they point out, “If God has a love relationship with us, it is likely that he will speak to us.” While it is true that people can misunderstand God’s message to them, they should not conclude that God doesn’t speak. The possibility for error is present in both prayer and preaching, but we don’t stop praying and preaching due to this possibility. There are numerous Scriptures about God guiding his people in various ways, and nothing indicates God’s plan to stop speaking to us. Another obstacle to seeking God’s will through prayer as a couple is experiential. In 12 years of pastoral ministry, I’ve continued on page 11
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HO’S IN CHARGE HERE? DISCERNING THE LORD’S LEADING IN MARRIAGE
By the Rev. Susan Finck-Lockhart Karen and Mark are both pastors with vibrant ministries, but their marriage is at a crossroads. Karen has been offered a large church in a growing area that sounds like a perfect fit. Mark has no desire to leave his flourishing ministry. They love the Lord and each other, but they can‘t agree. How can they decide? Those who believe in mutual submission emphasize Ephesians 5:21: “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” Gretchen Gabelein Hull writes in “Equal to Serve,” “How desperately we need to see that mutual submission in marriage … is not the subtraction of wifely submission but the addition of husbandly submission. In decision making within marriage, the ‘one’ who makes the decisions should be ‘the two become one.’” Yet people ask, “Who will make the decision when the couple is divided over an issue?” Some authors suggest that the partner who is most affected by the outcome should make the final decision. Others say the couple should take turns in breaking such impasses. Hull insightfully looks at the root of the issue: “If the partners frequently
find themselves at odds, they must prayerfully ask God to help them establish a true ‘one flesh’ relationship. Instead of arguing over male headship, they must both focus on Christ’s Lordship.” But how can couples do this practically? In order to include God in marital decisions, couples must believe that the Lord desires to direct the marriage, and that God speaks to individual believers through the Holy Spirit as well as through Scripture. Both spouses must agree that the leading of God is their foundation for handling decisions.
Individual Prayer Lives If Christ is going to be the leader of the relationship, both spouses need to be on intimate terms with him as individuals. They need to have and protect individual daily prayer times. My husband and I take turns being the “parent in charge” every morning. Bill has his time with the Lord before anyone else gets up, or at his office. I run or walk and listen to worship music. Otherwise I go downstairs and read my Bible, pray and write in my journal. He handles the children, the phone and anything else that may arise
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during that hour. In love, we allow each other time with the Lord every day.
had been born in 1994, a month before I began getting the image of the little girl.
Prayer Life as a Couple
Listening to God’s Voice
Doug McMurry and Brad Long have outstanding teaching and practical suggestions for developing a joint prayer life in their book, “Prayer that Shapes the Future.” In the chapter entitled “Household Prayer,” they suggest: “Discuss the prayer time together, making sure both partners feel respected. When one partner feels like a lesser contributor, household prayer rarely lasts. Prayer tests the fabric of a marriage and challenges two people to respect each other’s relationships with God. A daily prayer time forces both spouses to deal with issues that have cropped up in their relationship.”
God can speak through many means: a still small voice, a sense of peace or rightness, a word or phrase, a passage of Scripture, or a dream or vision. God can also speak through a spouse who does not have peace about a particular decision but can’t verbalize why. This is an indicator for further seeking of the Lord’s will. The goal is for both partners to be in unity and have a sense that they are responding to God’s initiative. Even if circumstances seem to point in a particular direction, one spouse’s unease is a sign to wait. God will not tell one spouse “yes” and the other spouse “no.” One example of this is in Payton and Ellen’s marriage. They were in the last stages of Payton’s candidacy for a new pastoral position. They had both felt positive about the call and had no reason to turn it down, but during their visit Ellen was restless and couldn’t sleep. As she prayed, she kept getting the sense that the Lord had something else for them. Payton balked because it would look awkward and would be a disappointment for the calling church. Yet Ellen’s words resonated with him. As graciously as they could, they declined the offer, citing their sense of the Lord saying “no.” When they returned home, a message from another church was waiting for them on their answering machine. The Lord was clearly leading them to accept this new position.
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Mutual Agreement
rayer tests the fabric of a marriage and challenges two people to respect each other’s relationships with God.
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In seeking God’s direction for a marriage, the couple must also agree to not proceed on decisions without mutual agreement. Often the Lord will speak to one partner but it will be months or years before the other partner feels the same calling. For example, in 1994 I had a recurring image of a Hispanic girl from Nicaragua waiting for us to adopt her. If this was a calling of God, I knew he would speak to Bill as well. At the time, Bill was closed to pursuing this idea, and I was partially relieved. I was busy with three small children and a growing church. In 1996, the Lord spoke to Bill, prompting him that it was time to begin looking for this child. Coming to this point of unity sent our family on a journey that culminated in August 1999 with the adoption of our daughter, Maria Annelisa. I later found out she
heard frustrations like, “God just doesn’t speak to me. I believe he can. I just don’t hear anything.” Part of my ministry has included helping couples explore the ways God can speak. I recently ministered to a young couple that felt God leading the wife to move from being a fulltime worker to a full-time mom. They knew it would be hard to support their family with the husband’s work in the news business, a traditionally low-paying field. Finally an interview came, but the work situation caused the husband some hesitation. The job didn’t catch his interest and it was barely enough money. Since their daughter was getting older every day, the wife thought the proposed situation could work. However, neither one felt peace about the offer. As their pastor, I suggested that God was showing them through a lack of peace that this was not the best plan for them. This resonated with them. Several weeks later the husband was interviewed for a job at one of the most prestigious (and wellpaying) newspapers in the nation. Again both traveled to the interview, but this time they felt the Lord’s leading. They accepted the position, bought their first home and have recently had their second child. Looking back, they rejoice in God’s vision and invitation into the process of praying and obeying.
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Who’s In Charge? - continued from page 11 Waiting on the Lord Often the Lord will be leading the couple toward a particular decision, but the couple must learn to discern together if the time is right. Nine years ago, my husband felt that he and his ministry position were not a good match. He wanted to get a doctorate and become a professor. Both of us believed this was the leading of the Lord. I agonized, however, knowing that we would have to leave my beloved church. It was the first church where I had served as pastor, and it was growing numerically and spiritually. My husband, who affirms my calling as a pastor, pursued every option within commuting distance. When those doors closed, he sent applications to three schools in other states. My angst with God grew. I asked the church to fence our yard and I bought an elaborate swing set that required hours of assembly by my husband and men from the church. It was a way of saying “We’re staying here. We can’t move now.” Several months later, at a retreat in New York, we joined more than 200 Christians in glorious worship. The music flowed into a contemplative time, and the fullness of the Lord’s presence enveloped the room in a sweet silence. A sentence in my head interrupted my silent worship: “Get ready to release them; get ready to let them go.” Tears erupted from deep inside me. I knew exactly what the Lord meant. He was preparing to move us away from our current situation, no matter how many fences and swing sets I might build. The Lord’s word was wrapped in so much love and a certainty of his presence that my will molded instantly to that message. I started planning informally for my departure, moving people into leadership and setting up structures that could work without me. But, to our shock, Bill was rejected from all three schools. Did I hear wrong? We continued praying and sensed that it was not the right time. The next year Bill applied to eight schools and was offered full fellowships plus teaching positions at three. When we visited one of the three schools, we both had a joy and excitement that we had found the place.
I was still heartsick about leaving my church, but the year between our decision and our move was the most prosperous year for both our ministries. God graciously gave me time to release the church gradually and equip them for my absence. In John 10:27, Jesus says, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me.” The Lord invites us to become like little children before him. Our job is to seek his will and step out in obedience. Sometimes we have ice cream in our house for dessert. This is a big treat for my four kids, who stand in line, pleading for their ice cream. They are completely focused on receiving the sweetness of the treat from me. Christian spouses can imagine themselves waiting together to receive the sweetness of the Lord’s guidance, ready to devour it when it comes.
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Reprinted by permission from The Lydian, a PCUSA renewal publication. A writer now living in China Spring, Texas, the Rev. Susan Finck-Lockhart serves as a National Representative for Presbyterian Reformed Ministries, International (PRMI). She and her husband have been CBE members since the organization’s founding.
CBE is Looking for Spiritual Directors Who Support CBE’s Mission If you are a Spiritual Director and would like your name added to our list of egalitarian spiritual directors, send your name and credentials to us at cbe@cbeinternational.org. Thank you!
13 Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality Summer 2002
Marriage Family of God and the
What does the Bible really teach about marriage?
SEPTEMBER 27-29, 2002 PORTLAND, OR A Christians for Biblical Equality Conference
general sessions Love, Listening, and Forgiveness: Why Submission Is a Two-Way Street Jon Trott and Carol Elaine Trott (7 p.m. Fri.)
After She Nailed His Pants to the Floor: Communication and Sex John Temple Bristow (7:30 p.m. Sat.)
When “My Way” Became “Our Way”: How Biblical Equality Changed Our Tune John and Carolyn Kohlenberger (9 a.m. Sat.)
Freedom of Service: Serving and Empowering Others John Kohlenberger (9 a.m. Sun.)
plus
10 workshops, music, drama, and couples’ panel!
Check our Web site for complete conference details: www.cbeinternational.org
14 Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality Summer 2002
Come and celebrate Marriage
From Friday evening through Sunday morning, experience this renewing conference. Gifted speakers and seasoned couples will offer biblical solutions to real challenges. The music and drama will move you to laughter and tears. CBE’s bookstore will feature relevant books and tapes. Come take a fresh look at what the bible really says about marriage and the family. Portland, with Mount Hood in the distance and rivers within, offers great restaurants and shops, and no sales tax. This is an ideal conference location. Register today! See you in Portland. Mimi Haddad President
registration Hotel Information:
Ramada Inn Portland Airport 6221 NE 82nd Ave. Portland, OR 97220 (503) 255-6511 $55.00 per room/night Includes breakfast, a complimentary 24-hour airport shuttle and free parking. Call for reservations before September 6, 2002.
Registration
(includes Saturday lunch): Early Bird Rate Before July 15
After July 15
Individual $115 CBE member $95 Student (full time) $75 Group discounts available! Call (612) 872-6898 or e-mail conference@cbeinternational.org.
$135 $115 $85
general sessions Love, Listening, and Forgiveness: Why Submission Is a Two-Way Street Jon Trott and Carol Elaine Trott
After She Nailed His Pants to the Floor: Communication and Sex John Temple Bristow
When “My Way” Became “Our Way”: How Biblical Equality Changed Our Tune John and Carolyn Kohlenberger
Freedom of Service: Serving and Empowering Others John Kohlenberger
couple’s panel
Three couples will address “Marriage as a Partnership: Speaking from Experience.” Moderated by Carol Elaine and Jon Trott.
workshops Ordinary People, Extraordinary Marriages: Considering a Partnership Model of Marriage Brian Nystrom
Respect and Dignity within the Family: Parenting with Equality Dave Wenzel and Carolyn Kohlenberger
Seven Biblical Models of Marriage John Temple Bristow
Ephesians 5: Marriage as Redemptive Community Mary Kate Morse
Dynamics of Grace and Shame: Building Whole Marriages and Families Richard Shaw "It’s Good for Me! Is it Good for You?” Negotiating Strategies in Marriage Phyllis and Rand Michael Going Back to the Garden: The Creation Account and Marriage Relationships John Kohlenberger
Preparing for Matrimony: Practical Help for Engaged Couples Naomi Larsen Exploring the Relational Challenges of Remarriage and Blended Families Anita Berardi Maher Understanding Power and Control Dynamics in Marriage Brian Nystrom
For general session and workshop descriptions, conference schedule and speaker bios, see www.cbeinternational.org
15 Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality Summer 2002
L EAVE A LEGACY “Choose your giving while you’re living; then you’ll know where it will go.” Why don’t you consider leaving CBE in your will? It’s a wonderful way to ensure that the truth of biblical equality is passed on to future generations. Courtesy of the Presbyterian Church Foundation, the following list exposes seven not-so-persuasive excuses for not having a will. Top 7 Excuses for Not Having a Will 1. Procrastination. “I’ll get to it next month.” 2. Estate “too small.” Still, you may wish to give certain possessions to certain people, or even make a charitable bequest to your church. Or have you thought of including CBE in your will? 3. “My family will carry out my wishes.” But they may not know how you wish to have your estate distributed, or your charitable intentions. The state has its own idea of how your estate should be taken care of. 4. “I have no dependents.” Even without them, you have the opportunity to give thought to how you want your estate distributed. 5. Worries about legal fees. “It will cost too much.” Making a will does not have to be expensive; call around for estimated costs. 6. Denial of mortality. “I’ve got plenty of time to do that.” Yet avoiding making an estate plan will not prolong your life one single day. 7. Overwhelmed. “Where do I start?” Start by requesting two free books: Your Guide to a Christian Will and Personal Record Book. Call the CBE office at 612-872-6898. Your lawyer or other trusted advisor can offer help. And you’ll rest easy knowing you’ve taken care of this important decision.
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H ONOR H WITHIN OUR RANKS Thomas A. Cornwell, M.D., a family physician from Carol Stream, Ill., received the 2002 Pride in the Profession Award for his efforts supporting meaningful, cost-effective care for the homebound. The American Medical Association (AMA) and the Pfizer Medical Humanities Initiative sponsor the award, which is given to “an exemplary physician who serves as a role model in the health care profession.” Dr. Cornwell has made over 11,000 house calls, and approximately 98 percent of his patients are on fixed incomes. Jane McNally was the first female graduation speaker at Jubilee Memorial Bible College in India, which had three women among its 14 graduates. This relatively new seminary grants accredited B.Th. and M.Div. degrees, and graduates are also commissioned as cross-cultural missionaries. Dr. Rochunga Pudaite, founder and president of Bibles for the World, also recently honored McNally at the close of an India Children’s Choir performance in Oregon. He had the special Hmar puondum shawl laid on her shoulders, honoring her lifetime of service to India. Dr. Carolyn Gordon was installed as Associate Professor of Church and Community at Central Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Kansas. Gordon attended Midwestern Baptist Seminary and then transferred to Southwestern Baptist Seminary, which offered a degree in Christian communications. While there, she realized and accepted that God was calling her to preach. CBE founder Catherine Clark Kroeger was interviewed for a Day of Discovery television series about the book of Revelation that aired on the PAX Network. Day of Discovery’s purpose is to help viewers “gain a better understanding of God through what he has said in the Bible,” covering issues such as prophecy, social issues, and reasons to believe in Christianity.
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16 Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality Summer 2002
W
ORDS OF WORTH: GENDER-ACCURATE LANGUAGE IN BIBLE TRANSLATION
By Joanne Nystrom Janssen When CBE member Peggie Roy began reading Today’s New International Version (TNIV) translation of the Bible, she was surprised by Jesus’ words in Mark 1:17: “Come, follow me, and I will send you out to catch people.” “As a woman I feel valued and affirmed instead of disregarded,” she said, “which unfortunately I just got used to in reading the Bible.” While some critics prefer the ring of the phrase “fishers of men,” the International Bible Society and Zondervan released the genderaccurate TNIV New Testament in order to have a translation that more accurately renders the meaning of the original texts in contemporary English. (The entire Bible will be available in 2005.) The translation differs from the NIV by only 7 percent, but for people like Roy the changes are significant. About a third of the changes are updates of masculine terminology that is often misunderstood. For example, “men” has been changed to “people” when it is faithful to the original Greek and Hebrew texts. Other changes include replacing “brothers” with “brothers and sisters” and “sons of God” with “children of God.” Masculine language for God and Christ has not been altered. This goal is one that Roy can appreciate. “Reading the word ‘men’ where the original text reads ‘people’ is a gross inaccuracy that has the potential to be hurtful,” she says. “Translations need to be true to the original text.”
Texts Out of Context Mark Strauss, associate professor of New Testament at Bethel Seminary San Diego and author of “Distorting Scripture?”, agrees. In an online chat about the TNIV, he explained that when Paul said in Romans 3:28 that “a man is justified by faith,” he used the Greek word anthropos, which scholars agree means “person” in this context. The TNIV
translates it this way. While this change seems straightforward, many people have not welcomed the improved accuracy and clarity. Opponents have suggested that it is motivated by a feminist agenda. To Strauss, this criticism doesn’t line up with the facts. He points out that many supporters of the TNIV, including himself, hold a conservative view of the role of women in the church. He also notes that over half of the members on the translation team were complementarians (who believe the Bible teaches different roles for men and women in the church and home). “This debate is not about the role of women in the church,” says Strauss. “The real issue is about translating the Word of God as accurately as possible.” Craig Blomberg, professor of New Testament at Denver Seminary, believes the TNIV is more accurate than the NIV. Also a complementarian, he believes gender-accurate language is essential to communicating God’s Word to many people in our culture, especially those under 30 years old. Language has changed over the years, according to many scholars. In the past, words like “men” were understood generically, but this is no longer true. In researching “Distorting Scripture?” Strauss found that studies overwhelmingly showed that “a large percentage of the population perceives masculine generic terms as … referring primarily or exclusively to men.” This evidence is true to Blomberg’s experience. “I have two daughters who understand generic masculine forms but do not relate to them,” he says. “They don’t encounter them at school or very many other places; church and Bible reading becomes an eccentricity.”
Translation 101 Some of the misunderstandings about the TNIV are linked to misunderstandings about Bible
17 Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality Summer 2002
translation in general. Alan Johnson, emeritus professor of New Testament and ethics and adjunct professor at Wheaton College and Graduate School, says that every translation is “inexact” because languages are not exactly similar. “Translation aims, as faithfully as the receptor language allows, to communicate the ‘meaning’ of the original language accurately, understandably, and without misleading the modern reader,” he says. This means that a “word-for-word” translation isn’t necessarily more accurate. For example, Strauss reminds us that a literal translation of the Spanish phrase, “Como se llama?” is “How do you call yourself?” The closest English equivalent is “What is your name?” “To say ‘word-for-word’ and ‘accurate’ together is something of an oxymoron,” says Strauss. “No two languages are the same, so to simply replace words in English for Greek words does not produce an accurate translation, but gibberish.”
Changes Explained
Why the Criticism? Over 20 revisions and new translations have appeared since 1985 that use gender-accurate language, according to John R. Kohlenberger III, an expert in Bible reference books and a member of CBE’s board of directors. These include the New Revised Standard Version, the New American Bible and the New Living Translation. So why is the TNIV causing so much fuss? Mark Strauss points out that the NIV was the first Bible to become more popular than the King James Version (published in 1611). “Any changes are likely to inflame some people,” he says, “especially in the context of a strongly anti-feminist Christian public.” New translations historically have always received criticism, he adds, pointing out that William Tyndale was killed for translating Scripture into the language of the people. Some of the criticism is linked to the release of the New International Version, Inclusive Language Edition (NIVI) in 1996. Released in the United Kingdom, the NIVI included changes for gender accuracy, but not the other scholarly updates of the TNIV. The NIVI was met with such controversy that in 1997 IBS discontinued its plans for a revised NIV in the United States. Under extreme pressure, leaders from Zondervan and IBS also signed the “Guidelines for Translation of Gender-Related Language in Scripture,” a document created in Colorado Springs in 1997 by opponents of the inclusive language NIV. This document spells out the ways in which genderrelated language can be translated, using a more restrictive approach than the one taken by the translators of the NIVI and TNIV. - continued on page 18 -
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With this understanding of the goal and purpose of translation, how does the text of the TNIV differ from the NIV? The TNIV reads like the NIV 93 percent of the time. Changes were made to the other 7 percent primarily to improve clarity, gender references, footnotes and headings, and sentence structure and grammar. Some of the improvements are word changes reflecting contemporary English terms, according to IBS and Zondervan. For example, “sixth hour” is translated as “noon,” and “with child” has been changed to “pregnant.” Because the TNIV changes some genderoriented language, the translation has been erroneously called “gender neutral.” The more precise term is “gender accurate” according to the TNIV Web site (www.tniv.info), because “the TNIV does not remove [specific male or female] attributes or ‘neuter’ any passages of Scripture.” “The TNIV uses generic language only where the meaning of the text was intended to include both men and women,” according to the Web site. “These changes reflect a better understanding of the meaning of the original Greek and Hebrew.” The gender-related changes do not affect the translations of the passages related to gender roles. This makes sense, says Craig Keener, professor of New Testament studies at Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, because the translators have different perspectives on this issue. But he cites this
as another example refuting the claims that this translation has a radical feminist agenda. Gary M. Burge, professor of New Testament at Wheaton College and Graduate School, was glad to see a minor change in Ephesians 5. In the NIV, the passage included a break between 5:21 (“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ”) and 5:22 (“Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord.”) In the TNIV, the section begins with 5:21, and the heading now says “Instructions for Christian Households” instead of “Wives and Husbands.” This change in connecting the two verses together reminds the readers “that submission is the call God places on all of our lives, not simply wives,” says Burge.
18 Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality Summer 2002
TNIV - continued from page 17 In a February 12 statement issued by IBS and Zondervan, they state that prayer and consideration led them to determine that the guidelines were “too restrictive to facilitate the most accurate possible text in contemporary English idiom.” Opponents of the TNIV perceived the withdrawn endorsement as a broken promise.
Words Impacting Lives
H ONOR GIFT
Laura and Peter Brown have made a contribution to Christians for Biblical Equality in honor of the memory of Marjorie Burns Brown. Laura described her mother-in-law as someone “who has fought quietly and persistently for the freedom for men and women to exercise their gifts in love and joy and to the glory of God.”
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Language is important to Harriet Bicksler, a CBE member from Pennsylvania. After all, as a publications specialist, she makes her living with it. “I believe that language both changes and reflects attitudes,” she says. “If we believe that the gospel is for all people, men and women alike, our language ought to reflect that.” A recent editorial project emphasized this point for Bicksler. She was commissioned to edit a book that explains her denomination’s doctrine in easyto-understand language appropriate for people new to Christianity and the denomination. Using a gender-accurate translation seemed essential for this audience. Roberta Hestenes, international minister for World Vision International, has seen similar applications. For several years she has intentionally used gender-accurate translations in her preaching, teaching and oral Scripture reading. “When translations use older and increasingly obsolete patterns of gender usage that obscure the presence of women in the text,” she says, “this can lead readers into misunderstanding, misusing, and even sometimes mistakenly rejecting the Scriptures.” Gender-accurate translations are particularly useful for congregational life and evangelistic outreach, she says, especially among younger people and those for whom English is a second or third language. “These translations remove an unnecessary barrier in sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ,” she says. Craig Keener shares similar sentiments: “Translations are to help us understand the Bible better, not to make the task more difficult.”
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The TNIV New Testament is available from CBE in hardcover for $16.99 and softcover for $12.99, plus shipping and handling.
Donate $1,000 and Receive a Concordance Have you been meaning to join CBE’s Partners Program by contributing $1,000 or more per year? At the end of 2001, we offered a free copy of “The Analytical Concordance to the New Revised Standard Version of the New Testament” by Richard Whitaker and John R. Kohlenberger III to new gifts of $1,000 or more. Because we still have a few left, we’re extending the offer. Hurry — concordances are available while supplies last! Donate online at www.cbeinternational.org, and we will send you this valuable resource.
Some Employers Will Match Your Contributions to CBE Does your employer offer a matching funds program? Over the years CBE has been the grateful recipient of matching gifts from employers, United Way and the Mustard Seed Foundation, to mention a few. Perhaps your employer or your local United Way will match your contribution to CBE. Please check with your human resources department. What a wonderful way to double the pleasure of giving, making it possible for CBE to reach twice as many with the good news of Galatians 3:28.
19 Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality Summer 2002
2002 CBE Counselors and Therapists List Christians for Biblical Equality does not necessarily endorse these counselors/therapists as professionals. We present these names as agreeing with CBE’s Statement of Faith and as active CBE members. Counseling arrangements should be made with the individual counselor/therapist. ALABAMA
COLORADO
Howard V. Culpepper, LPC 3322 S Memorial Pkwy, Ste 231 Huntsville, AL 35801 256-882-9799 culpepperhv@mail.yellowstone. net
Dr. James Beck, PhD Denver Seminary Box 10000 Denver, CO 80250 303-761-2468 jim@densem.edu
Beverly Burch, MA LCPC Summit Clinical Services 1761 S Naperville Road, Ste 200 Wheaton, IL 60187 630-260-0606 bjburch@juno.com
Margo Casey, MA 6075 S Quebec St, Ste 202 Englewood, CO 80110 303-889-2819 spadvwmc@aol.com
Ms. Linda Haines, MA LMFT 6607 N Newgard Avenue Chicago, IL 60626 773-743-7958
Jane N. Geiger, MA 1309 19th St S Birmingham, AL 35205 205-939-3311 raggamuffin@mindspring.com Dr. Mary Lou Henninger, PhD 201 E Grandview Drive Muscle Shoals, AL 35661 205-383-5130 or 256-381-9005
CALIFORNIA Dr. Colleen K. Benson, RN PhD Covina Psych. Services 1041 W Badillo St, Ste 104 Covina, CA 91722 626-331-0071 102560.217@Compuserve.com Jeff Bisaga, PhD 1430 East Avenue 4-C Chico, CA 95926 530-342-3377 Labrichico@earthlink.net Linda M. Ikeda, MFCC 1101 South Winchester Blvd, K236 San Jose, CA 95128 408-236-2799 RMIkeda@aol.com Dr. Andrea M. Kulberg, PhD 7301 Girard Avenue LaJolla, CA 92037 619-645-7218 amk@CTS.com
Dr. Brenda K. O’Reilly, PhD 2629 Redwing Road, Ste 316 Fort Collins, CO 80526 970-229-9959 Edith Woolard 6253 Chantilly Pl Colorado Springs, CO 80922 719-638-4649 D49_ewoolard@yahoo.com
GEORGIA David W. Key 1381 Cedar Dr Madison, GA 30650 706-347-0480 dkey@emory.edu F. Gayle Roberts, MED LPC Master’s Counseling Center 259 Arrowhead Blvd, Ste B1 Jonesboro, GA 30236 770-471-0725 ILLINOIS Linda L. Alford 25671 Hillview Ct Mundelein, IL 60060 847-540-9625 t.l.alford@worldnet.att.net
Dr. Betty A. Riley, PsyD Bethel Cntr for Psychotherapy 213 W Wesley St, Ste 204 Wheaton, IL 60187 630-681-1900 DocBARiley@aol.com
KANSAS Marjorie Cox 5620 SW 22nd St #502 Topeka, KS 66614 785-235-6125 Dr. M Gay Hubbard, PhD 745 County 388 Dr Osborne, KS 67473 785-346-2171 hubcca@ruraltel.net
MASSACHUSETTS Geraldine Elliott, LICSW ReVision Counseling and Consulting Liberty Square, Ste 212 Danvers, MA 01923 978-762-5435
MINNESOTA Sheryl Freeman, MS LAMFT 1601 E. Hwy 13, Ste 108 Burnsville, MN 55337 952-892-5375 sherylfreeman@hotmail.com Pastor Rob and Jan Hart 78 County Rd 24 Wabasha, MN 55981 507-528-2283
Maureen Law, LMFT Nystrom & Associates, LTD 1900 Silver Lake Rd, Ste 110 New Brighton, MN 55112 651-628-9566 nystrom@aol.com Brian Nystrom, LICSW LMFT Nystrom & Associates, LTD 1900 Silver Lake Rd, Ste 110 New Brighton, MN 55112 651-628-9566 nystrom@aol.com Shannon Staiger, MA LICSW 651-642-5073 sstaiger@compuserve.com
MICHIGAN Dan Austin, MA LPS 1050 N Liverhois Rochester Hills, MI 48306 810-752-4034 austin@usol.com Jamie Maynard-Nuzman, MSW CSU 39829 Lynn St Canton, MI 48187 734-480-8408 Mary A. Shuman, MS NCC LPC 2663 44th St, Ste. 206 Wyoming, MI 49509 616-681-2457 shumann77@yahoo.com
MISSOURI Tammy Jackson, MS Healing Grace Counseling Ctr. 688 SE Bayberry Lane, Ste 103C Lee's Summit, MO 64063 816-246-4465
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Connie M. Liden 920 Saratoga Avenue, Ste 212 San Jose, CA 95129 408-249-8047
Dr. Karen Mason, PhD 5005 W 81st Place Westminster, CO 80030 303-452-2891 KarenMason@juno.com
Dr. Lanny Law, LMFT Nystrom & Associates, LTD 1900 Silver Lake Rd, Ste 110 New Brighton, MN 55112 651-628-9566 nystrom@aol.com
20 Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality Summer 2002
SOMEONE H ONOR SPECIAL THROUGH A CBE HONOR GIFT Honor someone you love by making a special contribution in his or her name. Occasions to consider: • Birthdays • Anniversaries • Graduations • Weddings • Ordinations • Birth of a new child • Memorials • Gratitude for one’s parents, siblings, friends, pastors, youth leaders, choir director, mentor, or anyone who has made a contribution to your life.
❑ Yes, I want to remember the following persons
Counselors List - continued from page 19 and 123 E. Gay, Ste S-4 Warrenburg, MO 64093 660-747-9242 Marie Knowles 3407 Berrywood Dr, Ste 200 Columbia, MO 65201 573-443-1177 indiainks@juno.com
PENNSYLVANIA Dr. Mardee Alff, PsyD Clinical Psych. Bldg One 6321 Library Rd-Rt 88 Library, PA 15129 412-831-9183
with a special Honor Gift Enclosed is my tax-deductible honor gift of $ _______ In Honor Of: ___________________________________ On the Occasion Of: _____________________________ CBE would love to honor your someone special in the next issue of Mutuality. Your special message: _______________________________________________ _______________________________________________
❑ Please send the acknowledgement to: Name _________________________________________ Address ________________________________________ City _____________________State ____ ZIP _________
❑ Send the acknowledgement to me, so I can present it personally: Your name______________________________________ Address ________________________________________ City _____________________State _____ ZIP ________
❑ I authorize CBE to charge my credit card for the above contribution. ___ Visa ___MasterCard ___ Discover ___American Express Expiration Date ___ / ___ Authorized Signature __________________________
Please clip and mail to: Christians for Biblical Equality 122 West Franklin Ave., Suite 218 Minneapolis, MN 55404-2451
TEXAS Gerald Ford, MDiv MA Houston Cntr for Christian Counseling 13333 SW Freeway, Ste 230 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-277-8811 sherlockplace@yahoo.com Mark D. Ifland, MA LPC 9514 Grantham Dr Rockwall, TX 75087
WASHINGTON Ted Brackman Summit View Clinic 11019 Canyon Rd East, Ste A Puyallup, WA 98373 253-538-1310 Marilyn Campbell, MS Creekside Business Park 1520 140th Ave NE, Ste 210 Bellevue, WA 98005 425-603-1949 Marjorie Voice, MA 1115 Irving St SW Tumwater, WA 98512-6353 360-352-1818 mjvoice@reachone.com Dr. Sheila Goodwin, PhD RN CS CMFT Pearl Counseling Associates 1919 N Pearl St, Ste C-1 Tacoma, WA 98406 253-752-1860 x26
WISCONSIN Mary E. Bonneson, MS CPC NCC Family Care Psych. Services 2500 Mayfair Rd, Ste 500 Wauwatosa, WI 53226 414-771-5002 or Fax 414-771-2928 Jade Mueller, PhD Family Care Psych. Services 2500 N Mayfair Road, Ste 560 Wauwatosa, WI 53226 414-771-5002 Jewel_jade@msn.com Steven B. Tyvoll, MA CAZ 36 South Avenue East Clear Lake, WI 54005
INTERNATIONAL CANADA Diane Marshall, RMFT 3080 Yonge St, Ste 5062 Toronto M4N 3P4 Ontario CANADA 416-487-3613 if1@interlog.com Katharina Rempel 2024 Montrose Avenue Abbotsford V2S 3S9 British Columbia CANADA 604-942-1110
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Patricia Ebersole Zwier Shalom Center 27 de febrero #363 Santo Domingo DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 809-470-1187 zwier@codetel.net.do
PHILIPPINES Heather and Fred Gingrich Alliance Bible Seminary PO Box 1095 Manilla, PHILIPPINES 632371-3984 frether@jmf.org.ph If you are a CBE member and a counselor or therapist and your name does not appear in this list, please contact the CBE office for an application.
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21 Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality Summer 2002
Prayer Update - continued from page 25 The love and affection of the angels be to you, The love and affection of the saints be to you, The love and affection of heaven be to you, To guard and cherish you. May God shield you on every steep, May Christ aid you on every path, May Spirit fill you on every slope, On hill and on plain. “Blessings” Carmina Gadelica, Vol. III, pg. 207
■ Scriptures and meditations provided by Susan McCoubrie, one of the founders of CBE and retired staff member. Prayer items recorded by Mary Gonsior from daily staff prayer.
Send your friend a CBE informational packet! This packet includes a brochure, catalog, sample copy of Mutuality and intriguing articles. Name ___________________________________ Address_________________________________ ________________________________________ Please send to: Christians for Biblical Equality 122 West Franklin Ave., Suite 218 Minneapolis, MN 55404-2451
or e-mail: cbe@cbeinternational.org
Christians for Biblical Equality is an organization of Christian men and women who believe that the Bible, properly interpreted, teaches the fundamental equality of men and women of all racial and ethnic groups, all economic classes, and all age groups, based on the teaching of Galatians 3:28 — There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Core Values We believe… • The Bible teaches the equality of women and men. • God has given each person gifts to be used for the good of Christ’s kingdom. • Christians are to develop and exercise their God-given gifts in home, church and society. Mission Statement CBE equips believers by affirming the biblical truth of equality. Thus all believers, without regard to gender, race and class are free and encouraged to use their God-given gifts in families, ministries and communities. Core Purpose To broadly communicate the biblical truth that men and women are equally responsible to use their God-given gifts to further Christ’s kingdom. Envisioned Future CBE envisions a future where all believers will exercise their gifts for God’s glory, with the full support of the Christian community.
m bi inis bl try ica l r news es ou rc es
CBE’s Core Values les tic r ea fre
Visit CBE’s Web site at
www.cbeinternational.org for the latest ministry news, cutting-edge biblical resources and free articles!
22 Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality Summer 2002
O FFICE HIGHLIGHTS By Mary Seltzer
CBE is fast becoming a sought-after organization. During the first part of 2002, a number of newspapers and magazines, including Christianity Today, USA Today Mary Seltzer and the Associated Press, Operations Manager featured CBE in articles. Several radio stations asked for interviews. President Mimi Haddad has been speaking at conferences and conventions, and the invitations keep coming. Several chapters hosted booths, handing out CBE information. At a women’s expo booth hosted by the Smoky Mountain Chapter, nearly 400 people added their names to a list requesting more information about CBE. Contributions for the first quarter were up about 2 percent over first quarter last year. However, this is not keeping pace with all the opportunities that are opening. One of the largest 2002 budget increases was in “allocations for outside conferences.” Quite often CBE receives invitations to host a booth at a conference. We evaluate each one carefully to see if the strategic plan and budget can support our participation. However, we didn’t have to think too hard when considering hosting a booth at this summer’s Cornerstone Festival, usually attended by 25,000 people. Mimi Haddad was also asked to sit on a panel and lead four workshops on women in church history and feminine images for God. CBE just published its 2002 catalog with 158 book titles, 23 of which are brand new. If you missed CBE’s 2000 and/or 2001 conferences, this catalog contains videos and audiotapes from these events, plus many more tapes and articles. We’ve heard that some people use the catalog to introduce their friends to CBE. If you need extra copies, please let us know. CBE’s upcoming marriage conference in Portland, Ore., has already drawn some press attention. This conference, scheduled September
27-29, is taking a fresh look at what the Bible teaches about marriage and the family of God. Gifted speakers and seasoned couples will offer biblical solutions to real challenges, while the music and drama will move you to laughter and tears. You won’t want to miss sessions such as: “Why Submission is a Two-Way Street,” “Negotiating Strategies in Marriage,” “Dynamics of Grace and Shame,” “Respect and Dignity within the Family,” and “Ephesians 5: Marriage as Redemptive Community.” We’ve begun to receive registrations, and judging from comments, it sounds like it will be a packed house. The Ramada Inn has given CBE a special rate of $55 per night, and if rooms are available, you can obtain this same rate a few days before or after the conference for vacationing. So, register today! A CBE member from Tennessee has put forth an exciting conference challenge. She gave a contribution so CBE can offer scholarships to people from her state and challenges you to donate funds so CBE can do the same for your state. Only 49 more states to go! Will yours be next? We’ve already had requests for scholarships, so funds are definitely needed. There are still a few “NRSV Analytical Concordances of the New Testament” by Richard E. Whitaker and John R. Kohlenberger that another member donated for new Partners — donors who give $1000 ($84/month) for a year or more. Sign up to be a Partner before they’re all gone. CBE received a donation of several hundred books to help over 120 Christian colleges located throughout India. We estimated that postage costs would be over $4,000. Funds have been coming in for this ministry project, and we have begun sending the books. You’re invited to partner in this project. CBE staff prayer time is 10 a.m. each day. If you have a prayer request, let us know. Again, thank you for your prayers and support of biblical equality and CBE.
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23 Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality Summer 2002
D
Church Form OES YOUR CHURCH SUPPORT WOMEN IN MINISTRY? SOMEBODY WANTS TO KNOW
Since graduating from college a year ago, Karen has been discouraged in her search for a church. “I have found nothing,” she says. “Attending church has actually been a frustration and source of spiritual depletion.” Maggie’s church doesn’t believe in biblical gender equality. She says little boys as young as 10 years old can do more than she ever could as a grown woman, like read Scripture, serve communion or lead singing. “I’ve almost quit attending services because of my anger, frustration, sadness and feelings of futility,” she says. Every day, individuals visit CBE’s Web site seeking a church that supports women in leadership and ministry. They turn to us for help. CBE depends on you for recommendations of churches that support biblical equality. Churches do not need to be member churches to be listed on CBE’s Web directory, but need only to agree with our Statement of Faith. If your church or other churches in your area affirm women in ministry, please let CBE know. Just fill out the coupon on this page and mail or fax it to CBE. With your help, CBE can help women like Maureen, who has all but given up trying to serve within her church. She and other women have formed their own Bible study groups, written curriculum and serve in Christian organizations. “We feed off the success stories of CBE where women are free to experience all their God-given potential and calling,” says Maureen. “We see you down the road and appreciate the path that you are clearing. Thanks!” You can also give a gift membership to your church or have CBE send them information about our Church Membership program. Visit CBE’s Web site at www.cbeinternational.org and recommend a church online today!
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Church Name Address City State/Province/Country
Zip/Postal Code
Phone E-mail
Church Denomination
■ I recommend the above church as one that supports a biblical basis for the equality of women and men in church, home and society. ■ The above church would like to become a member of CBE. ■ I wish to give a gift membership to the above church. My Name Address City
State/Province/Country
Zip/Postal Code
CBE church membership is available to those who support CBE’s Statement of Faith. (See page 31.) All membership fees in U.S. Dollars: (Please circle one)
0 - 100 members 101 - 500 members 501 - 1000 members 1001 - 2000 members 2001 - 5000 members 5001 - 7500 members
$ 40 $ 60 $ 80 $100 $200 $300
Additional Contribution Enclosed: $_________ TOTAL ENCLOSED: $_________ CBE is an exempt organization as described in IRC Sec. 501(C) 3 and as such donations in excess of the basic membership fee may qualify as a charitable contribution where allowed by law.
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Please send payment to: Christians for Biblical Equality 122 West Franklin Avenue, Suite 218 Minneapolis, MN 55404-2451 Phone: (612) 872-6898 Fax: (612) 872-6891 E-Mail: cbe@cbeinternational.org www.cbeinternational.org
24 Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality Summer 2002
W
E PRAISE GOD... E THANK GOD... E PRAY TO GOD...
Lord God of Israel, we praise you. Only you can work miracles. We will always praise your glorious name. Let your glory be seen everywhere on earth. Psalm 72:18-19 CEV
We praise God for… • CBE’s Web site and upgrade to our online bookstore. • Providing resources to ship hundreds of books to Christian Bible schools in India. • The opportunity to introduce CBE to Chinese Christian churches in the United States. • CBE’s 2002 Book Service Catalog containing 23 new titles. • Favorable and accurate media attention, including articles by the Associated Press, Christianity Today, USA Today, Minnesota Christian Chronicle, and CKNW Radio in Vancouver, Canada. • Vision to broaden CBE’s territory, increase focus on missions, and strengthen international partnerships. • Vision to strengthen resources internationally, especially where suffering and oppression are great. • Egalitarian missionaries in India, Tanzania, Pakistan, Russia, Islamabad, Egypt, Lebanon, Yemen and other Muslim countries. • International Bible Society and Zondervan for publishing Today’s New International Version (TNIV), a gender-accurate Bible translation based on the New International Version. Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love And his wonderful deeds for human beings. Psalm 107:31 NIVI
We thank God for… • CBE’s membership within the Evangelical Press Association (EPA). • Favorable pricing and facilities for CBE’s 2002 Marriage Conference in Portland, Ore., on September 27-29, 2002, “Marriage and the Family of God.”
• Vision for creating brochures for the marriage conference, and favorable pricing. • CBE’s new computer network server, allowing CBE to continue to grow into the future. • Strong support for CBE’s ministry through additional Partners and Visionaries. • New Board of Reference members J. Lee Grady and Alvera Mickelsen. • New CBE conference coordinator and departmental assistant, Michelle Morzov. • Bethel College editorial intern, Elsa Petersen. • The opportunity to participate at the Christian Management Association meeting in March and at the SpiritLed Woman conference in April. • The opportunity to meet with California members, the Greater Los Angeles Chapter, Florida members and the Central Florida Chapter. • The opportunity to participate at Cornerstone Festival in Illinois in July through speakers and a booth. • Providing two new computer monitors through generous donors. Please pray daily for CBE, honoring Galatians 3:28. Almighty and eternal God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth: Mercifully accept the prayers of your people, and strengthen us to do your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. The Book of Common Prayer
Please pray to God for… Ministry • Health, wisdom and encouragement for CBE staff and their families. • Continued strong financial support for CBE’s ministry in 2002; financial support for the marriage conference. • Maximum attendance at the marriage conference. • Book projects, egalitarian curriculum and a summit of egalitarian leaders. • Sending books to chapters and denominational conferences during 2002. • Promoting CBE’s message and ministry with evangelical leaders through promotional video/CD-Rom. • Airfare and travel expenses for CBE staff. • Funds for increased mailing and postage costs. • Good health, encouragement, finances and travel arrangements for everyone involved in the marriage conference in September.
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• Media coverage that accurately portrays CBE’s ministry, conferences and resources. • An increased presence in colleges and seminaries in the United States and Canada; increased distribution of Priscilla Papers. • Increased church and individual memberships. General Office Needs • Computer hardware such as 19” high-resolution monitors, CD-RW drives and a digital camera. • Computer software such as Adobe Acrobat, Photoshop, Illustrator and QuarkXpress. • Office chairs and folding machine, an additional phone line, staff/consulting needs. • CBE’s new server. Conferences • Advertising and mailings for CBE’s marriage conference. • Funds for conference printing, advertising and scholarships. • Plans and budget for CBE’s 8th International Conference “Celebrating the Priesthood of All Believers” (2003), in Orlando, Florida: hotel, speakers and workshops. Book Service • Continued sales of books from 2002 catalog. • Reaching people with CBE’s message through our resources. • CBE’s bookstore’s new order processing system, integrated with our database.
International • Persecuted Christians around the world. • Translation of CBE’s statement into Modern Hebrew, Urdu and Dutch. Prayers for Members • Health/Illness/Surgery Brian, Ruth Ann, LuVerne, Astri, Dan, Barbara, LaVonne, Steve, Dawn, Rose, Billy, Roxie, Patty, Josie, Jane, Timothy, Lois, Leeann, Randy, Virgil, Richard, Marilyn, Jo Ellen, Amber, Jenny, David, Julie, Jason, Kyle, Allison, Becca, LaVonne, Phil, Andrea, Lois, Dennis, Ruth, Betty, Bob, Steve. • Home/Family Sue, Mary, Vania, Aaron, Nat, Lisa, Virgil, Mary, Yvonne, Teresa, Nancy, Lois, Peggy, Jennifer, Carol, Laurie, Natalie, Christianne, Rachel, Sarah, Nathan, Theresa, Craig, Medina, David, Chris, Inga, Rhonda, Heron, Scott, Nina, Andrea, Erik, Dave, Megan, Julie, John, Micah, Barb, Susan, Rudy, Wendy, Cindy, Eleanor, Kim, John, Christine, Anna Marie, Rose, Mike, Margaret, Kyle, Melanie, Pat. • Career/Ministry/Travel Wendy, Don, Lee, Debby, Dave, Ron, Stina, Christina, Becky, Fay, Agneiska, Kathy, Pat, Bobbi, Lee, Jocelyn, Carol, Linda, Jennifer, Tony, Shirley, Jim, Jane, Doneetsa, Julia, Carrie, Brian, Pat, Marlys, Marcy, Jenny, Brian, Carrie, Darcy, James, Ginny, Jennifer, Tony, Susie, Ken, Willie, John, Carolyn, Barb, Lorry, Ron, Alvera, Ann, Harriet, Terry, Doug, Tim, Joan, Lois, Helen, Ben, Liz, Trevor, Sharon, Margaret, Donna, Holly, Sam, Guen, Bea, Razia, Carol, Manja, Rai, Andrias, Tabita, Charaine, Sharon, Jane, Susan, Emily, Becca, Mary, Jon, Theresa, Joy, Pat, Cathy, Marlys, Elsa, Saundra, Wayne, Melissa, Ray, Kim, Kurt, David, Stacy, Rosalie, Bill, Aída, Rachel, Ben, Phyllis, Jane, Peggy, Finney, Jedidiah, Diane, Gordon, Reynold, Sterling, Ed, Susie, Rudy, Sherry, Gwen, Linda, Mimi, Dawn, Geoffrey. - continued on page 21 -
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Chapters • Chico (CA) Chapter’s monthly meetings, speakers and presentations. • Connecticut group’s airing of “The Egalitarian Connection,” a grassroots program on Public Access TV. • Norway Chapter’s efforts to increase awareness of biblical equality and to reach out to the newest churches established in Norway that often have a hierarchical view of men and women. • Texas Chapter’s efforts to increase awareness of CBE and to partner with individuals and ministries to advance biblical equality. • Santa Cruz Chapter’s bimonthly meetings for biblical study, emotional support, and intellectual discussion, to understand and be inspired to practice love as Jesus taught. • Greater Los Angeles County Chapter monthly meetings, seminars and lectures. • Greater Phoenix Chapter members; the chapter is now inactive.
• Oregon Chapter’s April conference on the image of God and gender issues in Scripture. • The Tampa area continues to have a need for others interested in starting a chapter there. • Central Florida Chapter’s efforts to open doors, build bridges and form new relationships with Christian and community leaders. • South Africa Chapter has new leadership and would appreciate prayer for their local ministry.
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T
HE CHAPTERS CORNER
ARIZONA Greater Phoenix Chapter The Arizona Chapter needs your help! If you or someone you know would be interested in reviving this group, please contact Judy Blake at h.j.blake@att.net.
CALIFORNIA Chico Chapter The Chico Chapter decided to meet monthly this year because of all of the exciting ideas they had for speakers and presentations. Their chocolate–themed February meeting featured Tom and Debra Tripp, who spoke honestly about their lives, their journey and their struggles to know each other and God’s will for a marriage relationship. At their green–themed March meeting, Nina Campbell reviewed the book “Men Are from Israel, Women Are from Moab” and spoke about godly relationships between the genders. The April meeting featured Katy Thoma, director of the local homeless shelter who spoke about socioeconomic equality and challenged the group to give time, talent and treasure to help the homeless. In May and June they are excited to hear from Pastor Toni Hartman and Pastor Peter Shaw. Plans are underway for The Annual Domestic Violence Awareness Forum in October and Nina Thiel’s drama presentation “Always the Women” in November. The Chico Chapter meets on the second Friday of every month. For more information, e-mail labri@chico.com. Greater Los Angeles County Chapter (GLACC) On April 6, this group had their spring seminar event with Jack and Judy Balswick speaking on “Men and Women in Reconciled Partnerships.” On May 4 and June 1, regular monthly meetings will be held, studying “Beyond Rhetoric: Reconciliation as a Way of Life” by Samuel George Hines and Curtiss Paul DeYoung. The chapter meets on the first Saturday of the month, September through June, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. For more information, contact Betsy Glanville at 626-584-5287.
Ricardo Cortes and Kristinia Faul, charter members of Santa Cruz County Chapter, began their equal marriage on March 30.
Santa Cruz Chapter The Santa Cruz County Chapter has been going through the workbook “Male and Female in Christ” by Carrie A. Miles and Laurence R. Iannaccone. They have been exploring how Jesus releases people from the obligations that resulted from the Fall and redirects attention to what really matters. In January, Linda Neuschwander facilitated a discussion on how “Jesus Frees Women From Being Defined by Domestic Roles.” Mark Vanderhoof facilitated the discussion in February on how “Jesus Frees Women From Being Defined as Sexual Temptress.” At the end of March, chapter charter members Kristina Faul and Ricardo Cortes were married in a bilingual and bicultural wedding ceremony and reception complete with Mariachi band. We celebrate with them a partnership marriage that is united under Christ. The chapter meets bimonthly on the second Saturday of the month (with some exceptions) for biblical study, emotional support and intellectual discussion in an effort to understand and be inspired to practice love as Jesus taught. Anyone from the greater San Francisco and Monterey Bay
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Area (and beyond) is welcome to meet with them. For more information, contact Cathy or Phil Van Loon at cvanloon@jps.net.
For more information and directions, see their Web site at CBEOregon.tripod.com or contact them by e-mail at CBEOregon@yahoo.com.
CONNECTICUT
TENNESSEE
New London Chapter in Process The Connecticut group continues to host a Public Access TV program called “The Egalitarian Connection” from Waterford on Eastern Connecticut CableTV, Inc., Channel 24 every Saturday at 7 p.m. and Comcast, Channel 12 from Groton at 5 p.m. on Tuesdays. They presented a short series on homosexuality that aired April 6-20 on Channel 24 and from April 9-23 on Channel 12. If you would like more information on how to do something like this in your area, please contact Equality3in1@aol.com.
Smoky Mountain Chapter In March, the chapter was favorably received at the Knoxville Women’s Expo. In fact, it was incredibly encouraging for them! Many people expressed an interest in receiving more information about CBE, and the chapter members had wonderful conversations with attendees. The event made the steering committee even more committed and resolved to get the good news out. For more information, contact bprenshaw@yahoo.com.
COLORADO Pike’s Peak Chapter The Colorado Springs Chapter met for dinner on April 18 at a local restaurant and then attended the free worship service at The Fifth International Wesleyan/Holiness Women Clergy Conference held in Colorado Springs. For more information about this chapter, contact cbe_coloradosprings@hotmail.com.
FLORIDA Central Florida Chapter On April 21, Mimi Haddad spoke to this chapter in a lecture entitled “Did the Apostle Paul Really Say That?” Her visit to town caused many doors to open and new relationships to be formed with several Christian and community leaders at places like Asbury Theological Seminary, New Covenant Episcopal Church and the SpiritLed Woman’s Conference, which attracts thousands of participants. The Tampa area continues to need others to help start a chapter there. The Central Florida Chapter will gladly support the efforts of those seeking to start such a chapter. For more information, please call Pauline Pedersen at 407-331-4388 or contact Beatrice Werner at poppaBiz@aol.com.
OREGON Greater Portland Chapter On April 27, the CBE Oregon Chapter held their spring 2002 conference, where evangelical theologian Larry Shelton spoke on “The Image of God and Gender Issues in Scripture.”
TEXAS North Texas Chapter Eddie and Sue Hyatt count it a privilege to take on the coordination of the North Texas Chapter. They are grateful to their friend, Sharon New, for pioneering the chapter and pray God’s best for her as she makes strategic decisions in the days ahead. For more information, contact CBETX@aol.com.
INTERNATIONAL CHAPTERS Norway Chapter The Norway Chapter held its first meeting of the year in March, where they discussed the path the group should take. In that meeting they decided that they would continue their Web site (www.bibelsklikeverd.no), as well as their magazine called “Biblical Equality,” which they send out 2-3 times a year. They also decided to investigate the possibility of being involved in a mission project together, and found out that one of their members, Janet Ulnes, is busy in translating a Bible study written by Mimi Haddad from English into Norwegian. They are really looking forward to being able to offer such a Bible study in Norway! In order to get CBE’s name out, the chapter determined to write in more Christian magazines and newspapers regarding women and equality. In that way they hope to become more known and in turn be able to spread the good news about equality! For more information, contact kontakt@bibelsklikeverd.no.
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28 Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality Summer 2002
B THE CHRISTIAN FAMILY IN OOK REVIEW:
CHANGING TIMES “Myth #1: Marriage Roles Are Determined by Gender,” “Myth #2: The In the last three decades, Christians have Husband/Father Is the endured intensive teaching about the family — Head of the Home” and marriage and parenting seminars, books and tapes, “Myth #5: The Christian Family Is Defined by even radio broadcasts and Web sites. Yet the more Biologically or Legally Related People Living in the resources thrown at families, the more the family Same Domicile.” has eroded. Instead of focusing on “Perhaps it’s time to roles (which is a word that rethink the evangelical The Christian Family in Changing Times doesn’t appear in the sound byte we call the Bible), Hicks prefers to talk Christian family,” says By Robert M. Hicks. 160 pages, Baker, 2002. about biblical Robert M. Hicks in “The B225P . . . . . . .$12.99/Introductory Price $9.74 responsibilities. “A Christian Family in husband is to ‘love his Changing Times.” wife as Christ loved the Dr. Hicks asks some church,’ ” he says. “But this clear command makes penetrating questions: When you think of the no statement about whether the husband should be phrase “Christian family,” what comes to your the primary wage earner, do dishes, or change mind? In your search for the ideal family, how do diapers.” you picture it? Is your image a biblical expression or The balance of the book is given over to a merely one you believe to be a biblical norm? survey of what the Old and New Testaments teach We all have an image of the “ideal” family that about families. Through his study, Hicks discovered we seek, but much of this comes from our own principles and biblical responsibilities for healthy family experiences. These experiences impart families that aren’t always emphasized by churches. meaning where meaning may be lacking, according For example, he found that the focus of the Bible is to Hicks. Scholarly literature calls this power on the kingdom of God instead of the earthly “myth,” referring to something that provides family. significance or rationale instead of something that is This book inspires us to hold our views about not true. We all have these myths but usually aren’t the Christian family against the light of God’s aware of them. Word. Our family practices and beliefs might not be Next to the power of personal experience, the as “Christian” as we think. It also offers hope and greatest purveyors of myths about the family in encouragement for families who do not fit the other eras are television and movies. We have been traditional Christian family mold. I recommend this strongly influenced to think that the ideal family book for every bookshelf because of its sane and was alive and well in different time periods, such as judicious conclusions about family living. Victorian England and frontier America. Actual history debunks the notion that things were better ■ in families in earlier times. In fact, three or four decades ago the Christian family was rarely Carol Zechlin splits her time between teaching piano mentioned at all in conjunction with the church or and voice lessons and writing. She is currently working society in general. on a book about her growing-up days in Upper Hicks goes on to disclose some of the common Michigan. myths we adopt about the Christian family, such as Reviewed by Carol Brisson Zechlin
29 Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality Summer 2002
B OOK SERVICE NEWS New Books The IVP Women’s Bible Commentary Edited by Catherine Clark Kroeger and Mary J. Evans This clearly written volume addressing every biblical passage is written from the women’s perspective, unique to the world of biblical commentaries. Written by 88 contributors from around the globe, the resource includes descriptions of women of the Bible, articles about women’s issues, and essays on theology and interpretation. 896 pages, IVP, 2002. B222H . . . . .Was $29.99/Introductory Price $22.49* God’s Big Picture: Finding Yourself in God’s Plan LaDonna C. Osborn People everywhere ponder the same question, “Where do I come from?” This book clearly outlines God’s plan for humanity: salvation through Christ. In the process, it shows that God intended women and men to stand on a level plane before God and each other. Attractive and easy to read, the book is a great tool for sharing the gospel. 135 pages, Osborn Publishers, 2001. B218P . . . . . . .Was $7.95/Introductory Price $5.96* The Equipping Church Guidebook Sue Mallory and Brad Smith As a companion to “The Equipping Church,” this workbook helps develop leaders and systems for lay mobilization, discern talents and gifts, and recruit, train and support volunteers for meaningful ministry. This groundbreaking material has been tested on hundreds of churches in America and includes numerous charts, diagrams and worksheets. 350 pages, Zondervan, 2001. B219P . . . . .Was $19.99/Introductory Price $14.99*
Paul: A Novel Walter Wangerin Jr. This imaginative, dramatic retelling of Paul’s life is told through the eyes of the men and women who knew him. Through extensive biblical and on-site research, Wangerin brings the world of the early church to life as he retells its struggles and conflicts. This wonderful story includes the contributions of women in the early church. 512 pages, Zondervan, 2000. B216P . . . . . .Was $14.99/Introductory Price $11.24* Discovering God’s Heart for Suffering Women: A 40-Day Prayer Pilgrimage Gwen McVicker and Idelette McVicker Journey on a 40-day prayer pilgrimage on behalf of abused, exploited and persecuted women around the world. This spiral-bound journal makes the pilgrim more deeply aware of suffering women and more committed to pray and work for them. Not just a litany of sorrows, the journal offers the encouragement and hope of a loving and redeeming God. 168 pages, Vision Publications, 2001. B223P . . . . .Was $19.00/Introductory Price $14.25* Black Man’s Religion: Can Christianity Be Afrocentric? Craig Keener and Glenn Usry This historical resource offers hope and inspiration to those who want to move beyond racism and segregation within the church. The authors address issues such as the contributions of ancient Africans to the spread of the early church. They also challenge the notion that African culture was unenlightened before the influence of Europeans, making this a must-read for anyone interested in church history. 249 pages, IVP, 1996. B224P . . . . . .Was $14.99/Introductory Price $11.24*
*Sale prices do not include shipping and handling. Member discount does not apply. Sale ends August 31, 2002.
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TODAY’S NEW E MBRACING INTERNATIONAL VERSION By Mimi Haddad
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At CBE, we began the New Year by celebrating the release of Today’s New International Version (TNIV) of the Bible, now available through CBE and in bookstores around the country. The press did an excellent job of obtaining Mimi Haddad President opinions from church leaders and scholars alike, and within a short time many seemed ready to consider the strengths of the TNIV. A glance at the history of Bible translation offers some insights as to why some are reticent to embrace the TNIV. As far back as Jerome’s translation of Scripture from Greek to Latin in the second century, new translations are often viewed with suspicion. Church officials persecuted John Wycliffe in the late 1300s and William Tyndale in the early 1500s for translating Jerome’s Bible from Latin into English. In 1603, England’s King James commissioned a new translation that became the beloved King James Bible, but Puritans and pilgrims in America boycotted this translation. Almost every translation has been condemned as heretical. What is the fundamental complaint in each situation? Simply that new translations are different. C.H. Dodd, chair of the New English Bible translation team in 1961, said that the task of Bible translators is twofold: first understand the ancient authors and texts, then restate their thoughts in the native idiom. We constantly need new Bible translations because the native idiom is always in a state of flux. Newer words are added, the meanings of others have changed, and some words are no longer in use. Most objections to the TNIV are a reaction to novelty, even though the TNIV retains 93 percent of the text of the NIV. In fact, most changes in the new version deal with words unrelated to gender. The first priority of the translation team was to update language for clarity. For example, rather than using “during the fourth watch of the night” in Matthew 14:25, the TNIV reads “just before dawn.” Such changes make the Word of God easier for
modern readers to understand. A second priority of the translators was gender accuracy. The TNIV makes it clear when the biblical author is referring to both men and women. For example, in Titus 2:11 the TNIV proclaims, “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all people,” rather than “… to all men.” The Greek word in question is anthropos, which usually means “people.” Using the proper word choices in the TNIV allows people to see that God, through Christ, offers both women and men redemption through Christ. This is the good news of the gospel, available to all people. In today’s culture, male pronouns are no longer used for both men and women. Exclusively male language excludes women. Yet, it is inspiring to know that the biblical language embraces women in texts such as Romans 3:8: “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.” When translators do their job properly, women become more visible in the Bible. This does not distort Scripture! The gospel fails to be good news when women cannot identify with such texts, despite the intention of the biblical author. Modern language does not include women in words like “men,” “he” or “his.” Fifty years ago it was acceptable to refer to women in this way, but language has changed rapidly in the last several decades. This is one reason I like to promote the TNIV. Children and most adults more easily understand it. For example, a friend read the King James Version of Titus 2:11 to a 4th grade girl. “For the grace of God … brings salvation to all men.” She then asked the young girl: “Does that apply to you?” “No,” she answered. Then she read it again from the gender-accurate translation: “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all people.” “Does that include you now?” “Yes,” she said.” We can agree that the change is important! Some people reject the TNIV because they believe the translators worked under a feminist agenda. This is false for three reasons. First, the passages updated by the TNIV are those upon which all Christians agree: regardless of gender all
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Embracing TNIV - continued from page 30 people have access to God through Christ. Second, the texts that Christians debate when considering the leadership of women (1 Timothy 2:11ff, Ephesians 5:21ff, 1 Corinthians 14:34ff) are matters of interpretation, not translation. The TNIV makes no changes in these texts. Third, the TNIV translation team is comprised of consummate scholars and faithful Christians who do not agree on the interpretation of the difficult passages on gender. They do agree upon the principle of accuracy in Bible translation, and gender is one of many concerns facing Bible translators. Their goal is to ensure that the intention of the original authors is maintained, something the TNIV sought to do. While the TNIV is a late bloomer in updating language as it relates to gender, it is not different from what most translations have done in the past 20 years. To modern ears, the TNIV is good news. Visit the TNIV Web site (www.tniv.info) for more information, and consider offering International Bible Society and Zondervan your support and prayers. How can you practically forward the TNIV? Buy copies for family and friends. Suggest the use of this translation when reading Scripture in church, or ask your church leadership to purchase the TNIV as pew Bibles. Celebrate with CBE a truly exceptional translation.
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Statement of Faith We believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God, is reliable, and is the final authority for faith and practice. We believe in the unity and trinity of God, eternally existing as three equal persons. We believe in the full deity and full humanity of Jesus Christ. We believe in the sinfulness of all persons. One result of sin is shattered relationships with God, others, and self. We believe that eternal salvation and restored relationships are possible through faith in Jesus Christ who died for us, rose from the dead, and is coming again. This salvation is offered to all people. We believe in the work of the Holy Spirit in salvation, and in the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers. We believe in the equality and essential dignity of men and women of all races, ages, and classes. We recognize that all persons are made in the image of God and are to reflect that image in the community of believers, in the home, and in society. We believe that men and women are to diligently develop and use their God-given gifts for the good of the home, church, and society. We believe in the family, celibate singleness, and faithful heterosexual marriage as the patterns God designed for us.
CBE membership is available to those who support CBE’s Statement of Faith. Members receive quarterly issues of CBE’s newsmagazine, Mutuality, and CBE’s educational journal, Priscilla Papers. Members are eligible for discounts on items from CBE’s Book Service, including books, articles, tapes and videos. Members are also offered discounts on all international CBE conferences.
CBE Membership Application Enclosed is my yearly CBE membership fee. All fees are in US dollars. Please check one: United States 3 Years __ Individual Membership $ 95 __ Household $140 __ Low Income __ Library Subscription $ 85
1 Year $35 $50 $20 $30
International __ Individual Membership __ Household __ Low Income __ Library Subscription
$44 $59 $29 $39
$122 $167 $112
All gifts of $250 and over include a complimentary membership. Additional contribution: __________________________ TOTAL ENCLOSED: ___________________________ CBE is an exempt organization as described in IRC Sec. 501(c)3 and as such, donations in excess of the basic membership fee may qualify as a charitable contribution where allowed by law.
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Christians for Biblical Equality 122 West Franklin Ave. Suite 218 Minneapolis, MN 55404-2451
Marriage Family of God and the
What does the Bible really teach about marriage?
SEPTEMBER 27-29, 2002 PORTLAND, OR See pages 13-14 for details.
A Christians for Biblical Equality Conference