Christians for Biblical Equality
Mutuality Let us then pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding. – Romans 14:19
Discovering God’s Design by Julia Bloom – pg. 12 Julia tried to conform to the church’s image of a godly wife, but instead she started to lose touch with her own thoughts and feelings. She began to uncover God’s design for her life and marriage at CBE’s marriage conference — and it was nothing like she expected.
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Women Beyond the Cave by Melody Green – pg. 6 Many women are confined to a cave — afraid to step out and serve in ministry because of fear, comfort or false messages about being women. Using examples of women throughout history that have been used mightily by God, Melody challenges each of us to venture beyond the cave.
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And the Truth Will Set You Free! by Faith Totushek – pg. 13 Faith knew the Bible said she was saved by grace, but she struggled to believe it. If God loved her, forgave her and truly redeemed her, why then was she still required to live under a man’s authority?
SPRING 2001
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 2 Spring 2001
In This Issue… FEATURES
DEPARTMENTS 3 Office Highlights 4 In Our Mailbox 12 Egalitarian Exchange 18 Honor Within Our Ranks
21 Prayer Update 24 The Chapters Corner 26 In Honor of… 27 Book Review “10 Lies the Church Tells Women: How the Bible Has Been Misused to Keep Women in Spiritual Bondage”
28 Book Service News Six new books, one classic back in print, and four new videos from CBE’s Marriage Conference
30 Executive Director’s Message
31 CBE’s Core Values and Statement of Faith
31 Membership Application
6 Women Beyond the Cave Melody Green encourages women to venture out into ministry, as God can use them in mighty ways.
8 Equipping the Church, Empowering the Saints Gain comprehensive information about CBE’s 7th Biennial International Conference to be held June 22-24, 2001, in Dallas, Texas.
12 Discovering God’s Design Julia Bloom discovers God’s design for her marriage and her life — and it’s nothing like she expects.
13 And the Truth Will Set You Free! Faith Totushek learns how to escape the shame she felt for being a woman and accept the loving grace of God!
15 Women: Potluck Planners or Partners? In college Keith Nystrom begins to wonder whether women are meant to be more than nursery workers and potluck planners.
16 A Loving Tribute to Mom Wendy Bausman reflects on the way her mother’s life modeled that every woman can be all that God wants her to be.
17 The Spiritual Impact of Mom The Rev. Kevin Bausman shares the lasting impact his mother made on his spiritual development.
18 CBE Hosts Booth at Evangelical Theological Society CBE distributed material about biblical equality and developed relationships with scholars from around the world.
19 New Staff Members at CBE Meet Sarah Edwards, our Executive Administrative Assistant, and Winnie Tan, our Conference Coordinator.
20 Why Should Churches Join CBE? Discover the benefits of becoming a CBE church member.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 3 Spring 2001
d growth of ily, beginnings an ew n of ar Dear CBE Fam ye CBE has was a the ministry of 2000 is that it h e ic ib h cr w es in d s to ay The best way some of the w are with you sh to ke . li ar d I’ ye the old. er the last churches in Mary Seltzer d expanded ov searching for y el at er s. In p es developed an d people od-given gift Operations Manager G om r fr ei s th ge to sa g es . in ts rd e receive m ministry acco ill these reques Frequently w men serve in we could fulf d so y an es og h en ol rc ci u om so w ch r ere names of such with her senio their area, wh ld serve CBE you to submit u d co , the Church ke e ey as sh rv e if su w l d t, u the pas nior aske successf se er h ge d le an ol C y sl el Beth sent us previou Last spring a e names you th h it w s, u h T hip brochure project. born. rch members as u w ch a am , gr te si ro P eb Member l consultants hes on our W alitarian churc ng with severa ti eg ee of churches m st a li a ad e h of egalitarian s. We just es n io am Today we hav n at e eg th gr p n . Kee for more BE-member co . See page 20 developments ar re ye tu is fu e th and a list of C bl E B si C os embership to me exciting p ur church a m concerning so yo g n vi gi er d consi partnership coming, and blical truth of bi e th e er h w ntinue to rence, details. ssions. We co arriage confe cu m is ’s d E B el C an p as d in 2000 w d improved kers, drama an Another first through spea pacted lives an im ed el ce n od re m fe n as eos are now yw is co . Speaker vid and mutualit about how th 12 k e ee ag w p y on er y ev or ents lia Bloom’s st receive comm ample, read Ju ex an r Fo . es to stories . marriag ction devoted ase on page 29 se h r rc te u n p ce r e fo th e availabl 32 pages with lives. The book sed from 16 to y in everyday it ea al cr u in g the eq y of lit s ua it urces teachin al benef so ic re ct In 2000, Mut ra of p s e d re th d g this hun ers illustratin a few books on 40 pages with ly to on 32 e er om from our read w fr e d reality in as ther g also increase site became a exciting step, eb an W is ’s is service catalo E h B T . C onations. from omen and men rations and d books online st g gi in re er ce rd n equality of w O re . fe ed berships, con BE was found receiving mem topic when C n ga be so al e 00 w occurrence. came a daily 1999, but in 20 be s er rd of Directors d or ok line bo years, the Boa 14 t as h CBE. p e th Receiving on unders to birt ment over fo op r el ou ev d ve ro ’s d E that hich you about CB ore Values, w erlying values C d n e u In meditating es e h T th e s. n at ic . More eratio d to commun to future gen igned in 2000 es on d s es re lu u h noticed a nee va oc e give to hip br is to pass thes brochures to new members ew e n th e to es th ed Their intention d of e ad you need som page 31, were may read on distributed! If en be y ad s. re u ct ave al , please conta ard to 2001, than 12,000 h urch displays we look forw s ch A . in d ce te la ve p co s, Texas. ways friends or 22-24 in Dalla , which are al e n 00 Ju 20 in om fr rs ce ye feren ference! r your pra rnational Con miss this con te to In t Thank you fo l an ia n w n ot ie n B certainly will about the 7th we’re excited ce details. You n re fe n co e th for See pages 8-11 Blessings,
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Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 4 Spring 2001
Mutuality
I N OUR MAILBOX Comments on the Last Issue of Mutuality
SPRING 2001 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 both in the United States and throughout the world.
Received Priscilla Papers and Mutuality and love them! Have fought this thing for a long, long time. Iowa Just finished the latest Mutuality and it was great. [I] read it from cover to cover and I think it’s the best one yet. Just wanted to say thank you for all involved. Putting out any publication is a lot of work and this one is appreciated. North Carolina
Gratitude for the Ministry of CBE Executive Director:
Mimi Haddad
Operations Manager:
Mary Seltzer
Finance and Data Coordinator:
Mary Gonsior
Book Service Coordinator:
Joanne Nystrom
IT Coordinator:
Nathan St. Clair
Executive Assistant:
Sarah Edwards
Conference Coordinator:
Winnie Tan
Mutuality Editor:
Joanne Nystrom joannen@cbeinternational.org
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: April 1, 2001
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
A Christian organization that understands gender equality! Today I am lucky! E-mail I want you to know that I pray for this vital, important ministry. As I look at history [I] see that when women are allowed freedom to minister in whatever capacity God has called them to, then there is revival. Social justice becomes a reality, attitudes are changed and God is able to work in a marvelous way. Oregon I want to tell you how very much I appreciate all your efforts toward the cause of equality and especially that Scripture is the basis of it all. The materials are diligently researched and thoughtfully presented which I think supports the credibility of the issues involved. Alberta What can I say but a heartfelt thank you for the joy you have given me through your articles and devotions. You have also been an inspiration to me, a challenge [and] a wonderful tool to use in articulating how I feel about women serving in the church. My excitement in finding you is still high, and I try to spread the word of your great work. What I wouldn’t give to be 30 instead of 71, going on 72 soon, and having this resource! Minnesota - continued on page 5 -
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VISIT US ON THE WEB! www.cbeinternational.org
For centuries I think denominational churches have manipulated Scripture to serve man’s agenda and not God’s. For the body to be what Christ desires, each part of the body — men and women — need to use their God-given gifts. Hopefully the Holy Spirit will move all churches in this direction. God bless CBE for your ministry and teaching in this area. British Columbia
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 5 Spring 2001
Changing Churches for Equality Thanks much for your prayer — the vote [for a woman in a pastoral role] went without a hitch. I have been telling my children and friends to address her as Pastor! The church vicechairman said some very nice things to her — something to the effect that he is pleased that she is the first woman to be called by our church in this capacity because she leaves such a terrific example to follow. Washington Last Sunday in Bible class, I was able to interject a thought for consideration: the parallel aspect of the teaching on submission in Ephesians 5:22-25. More than a few women spoke out in approval. The pastor then agreed that the man is also under obligation to submit. I was pleased. Wisconsin Several weeks ago as I was leaving church, I walked through a Sunday School classroom and noted two words on the blackboard which I had never seen in our particular church: CBE and egalitarian. My curiosity moved me to call the teacher of the class, and we had a lengthy discussion regarding my views. I was encouraged by his openness and willingness to discuss the subject. This morning he invited me to share my views with his Sunday School class. Missouri
Protecting Partnerships As long as women are marginalized, adultery is easy. If you think of your wife as a baby factory and just one step above your children, how easy it is to betray her. On the other hand, if your marriage is based on a partnership, if decisions are made together, and if you truly work as one flesh, it is extremely difficult to even imagine betraying your spouse — because it would be betraying yourself! When [my husband] and I said our vows, our closing remark was, “And let my love be a reflection of Christ’s love for you.” Minnesota
The Church Search I was raised in a Baptist Church (which I loved), but I don’t belong there anymore. I see the deacons making the fundamental decisions and leading in the church, while the deaconesses are assigned to the trivial tasks of food preparation and party planning. I don’t believe that God would have given me an intelligent mind if he hadn’t meant for me to use it. Please refer me to a [church] that believes in the equality of women. The picture that I am painted in church is that God mostly loves men. E-mail
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 e-mail 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 self-addressed envelope with sufficient postage.
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. Call us toll-free at 1-877-285-2256 or write us at: Christians for Biblical Equality, 122 West Franklin Ave., Suite 218, Minneapolis, MN 55404-2451.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 6 Spring 2001
W OMEN BEYOND THE CAVE by Melody Green
Melody Green is President and CEO of Last Days Ministries (LDM), a ministry she began in 1977 with her late husband Keith Green. After Keith and two of their children died in 1982, Melody continued to lead LDM Melody Green and went on to become an internationally known speaker and author. Her best selling book, No Compromise: The Life Story of Keith Green, has been translated into several languages. I can’t shake it. In my spirit I keep hearing God say, “Women arise! Women arise! With open hands lifted up to heaven. With lips ready to give praise and speak truth. With hearts soft and open, ready to receive my message. It’s time to receive your spiritual inheritance. To receive your personal marching orders for this important hour.”
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As women we should be encouraged. We may be soft on the outside, but we’re strong and mighty in spirit. We are God’s secret weapons and the enemy knows it. He takes us seriously, even when others don’t. The enemy’s strategy has been to keep us quiet and in hiding. But God is doing an end run. He is going to release so many of us at once that the enemy is not going to know what hit him! After hearing this from the Lord, in my mind’s eye I saw a cave. I looked closer and many women were in it, too many. And they were afraid to come out.
Let’s take a quick look at just a few of the betterknown women who ventured beyond the cave. Deborah was a prophetess and a judge. She was a married woman with a day job outside her home: judging a nation. Deborah carried a governmental mantle and she was trusted to disperse wisdom for the whole nation. When she called for the army commander, Barak, and told him it was time to go to war, Barak wouldn’t go to battle unless Deborah went with him.
e may be soft on the outside, but we’re strong and mighty in spirit. We are God’s secret weapons and the enemy knows it.
Then there was Esther, an orphan. When her story began, she was much younger than Deborah and still single, but she knew how to hear from God. She was abducted with many other beautiful young girls and taken to the castle of a heathen king who was having a contest for a new wife. God told Esther to listen to her uncle who had been raising her and take the advice of the man in charge of the girls. Esther hid the fact that she was Jewish, and God gave her a strategy to become the queen.
But little did Esther know all the Lord had in mind. When the whole Jewish nation was in line for extermination, Esther fasted and prayed, and God gave her intricate, day-by-day wisdom with splitsecond timing. With God’s wisdom I believe she moved prophetically — giving time for the king to have a sleepless night and for Haman’s gallows to be built. Only God could have orchestrated such an incredible deliverance for the Jewish nation and such a fascinating turn of events to judge the bad guys. But - continued on page 7 -
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Some felt the cave was a safe place to stay — that only men were equipped to venture out and fight the battles beyond. Some felt content to stay, because the cave was indeed their place of service. But many felt restless, unsettled. Many felt called out, but some had been told those feelings were wrong — so they stifled them, stuffed them down
and poured guilt upon themselves. But for some, those feelings could not be ignored. Their call could only be fulfilled beyond the cave.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 7 Spring 2001
it was a young Jewish orphan girl who listened and followed God’s plan. One of the things I really like about the stories of Esther and Deborah is the incredible teamwork that happened between them and the men God put in their lives. Mordecai was behind the scenes praying and sharing wisdom with Esther. And I would imagine Deborah’s husband (along with the whole nation) prayed when she and Barak went off to war. Many years later Jesus rose to prominence, and a young girl named Mary poured ointment on his feet. Her act of worship was despised by the men around her. They thought it was wasteful. But Jesus pointed to her extravagant adoration as an example every believer should follow: the example of a simple, worshipping woman. And still many years after that, Joan of Arc, a young girl from a poor village in France, began to hear God speaking to her. Her faith and visions took her before her government with a plan. Joan of Arc became the only teen-ager in all of history ever to lead a nation’s army. She was betrayed and became a martyr, and she is still an inspiration to people around the world today. Hundreds of years later, four teen-age girls were sent to America from England on a mission. The Salvation Army was flourishing in England, but unknown in America. Within months these teen-agers started a movement in America that is still going strong today. Then there was a young Albanian woman who went to India as a schoolteacher. While there, she felt a call from God to help the poorest of the poor. She walked out into the streets of India without any money and simply began to pick up and take care of the dying from the gutters. She lived in poverty and did menial
tasks even when her name became known worldwide as the byword for the embodiment of Christian love and compassion. She was Mother Teresa. As a pauper and a servant, she received the Nobel Peace Prize. Jackie Pullinger left the United Kingdom on a freighter, believing God would tell her when to get off. When the ship docked in Hong Kong, she disembarked. Jackie quietly and sacrificially won the trust of heroin addicts, prostitutes and violent gangs. She learned God’s secrets about the poor, she learned Chinese, and she learned the keys to praying people off heroin addictions. Jackie is still in Hong Kong today, and because of her continued sacrifice there is a flourishing Chinese church filled with countless people with new lives. Today the mission field is filled with women who are leading churches and pioneering works in remote tribes and villages. They are teaching, training and raising up native pastors so God’s work can grow. There are also women serving God in the suburbs and the inner cities — in the pulpit, on their knees and in the streets. Some are prominent Bible teachers, and others are serving in relative obscurity. Maybe it’s time for you to venture out of the safety of your cave to see how God wants to use you. There’s always room for one more out there.
Copyright: 2000, Last Days Ministries, Box 40, Lindale, Texas 75771-0040. All Rights Reserved. This is an excerpt of an article found at the site: www.lastdaysministries.org/articles/articleindex.html. If you wish to order the complete article in tract form, please contact Last Days Ministries, P. O. Box 2680, Hayden Lake, ID 83835.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 8 Spring 2001
SCHEDULE Thursday, June 21 Registration . . . . . . . . . . .
5:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Friday, June 22 7th Biennial International Conference
Registration . . . . . . . . . . . CBE Chapter Leaders Workshop . . . . . . . . . . . General Session . . . . . . . . . Workshop Session I . . . . . . Break . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dinner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . General Session . . . . . . . . .
9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. 3:15 - 4:45 p.m. 4:45 - 5:30 p.m. 5:30 - 6:45 p.m. 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, June 23
Equipping the Church, Empowering the Saints Ephesians 4:11-16
June 22-24, 2001 Crowne Plaza Hotel N. Dallas/Addison, Texas
❖ Join us for an amazing weekend of fellowship, education and fun!
Devotions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8:15 - 8:45 a.m. Workshop Session II . . . . . 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. Panel Discussion . . . . . . . . 10:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Lunch (on your own) . . . . 12:00 - 1:45 p.m. Workshop Session III . . . . 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. Break . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. Awards Banquet . . . . . . . . 5:00 - 6:45 p.m. General Session . . . . . . . . . 7:00 - 8:45 p.m. Authors’ Autograph Party . 8:45 - 10:00 p.m.
Sunday, June 24 General Session . . . . . . . . .
9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 9 Spring 2001
Conference Speakers Julie Pennington-Russell
Gordon D. Fee
“Before the Unwrapping: Learning to Live in Love”
“The Cultural Context of Ephesians 5:18-33”
Ordained by a Southern Baptist Church in 1986, Julie Pennington-Russell is now Senior Pastor of the 850-member Calvary Baptist Church in Waco, Texas. Pennington-Russell is a leader in the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, an alliance of thousands of churches and individuals unhappy with the SBC’s restrictive polity.
Gordon Fee is Professor of New Testament at Regent College in Vancouver, British Columbia. His teaching experience includes serving schools in Washington, California and Kentucky, as well as Wheaton College and Gordon D. Fee Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Fee is a noted New Testament scholar and has written several books and commentaries.
Julie PenningtonRussell
Richard J. Foster
Robin Smith
“Transforming Grace”
“Equipping the Church for the Ministry of Reconciliation”
Spiritual development is the emphasis of the writings and teaching of Richard J. Foster, founder of RENOVARÉ, an effort working for the renewal of the church. Foster is also the author of several books, including Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Richard J. Foster Growth, Freedom of Simplicity and Streams of Living Water: Celebrating the Great Traditions of Christian Faith. He has also taught biblical, theological and spiritual formation college courses.
Robin Smith has served on the faculties of Azusa Pacific University and George Fox University for over 10 years. She is an ordained elder in the Church of Nazarene, and has served for 14 years in church ministry. A respected retreat and conference speaker, Smith has also published Nazarene Sunday School curriculum and journal articles.
Robin Smith
Panelists
Panel Discussion: “Equipping the Church, Empowering the Saints”
Charles Wade
Kay Rader
Cecilia Yau
Carolyn Gordon
Gilbert Bilezikian
Executive Director, Baptist General Convention of Texas
Retired World President, Salvation Army Women’s Organization
Chinese Christian Mission in California
Vice President, Baptist Women in Ministry
Co-founder, Willow Creek Community Church; Professor Emeritus of Biblical Studies, Wheaton College
Conference Emcee
Leaders Panel Moderator
Devotional Leader
Worship Leader
Mimi Haddad
Kathy Dudley
Robert Winn
Executive Director, Christians for Biblical Equality
President, Dallas Leadership Foundation
Freelance Christian Musician
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 10 Spring 2001
WORKSHOP SESSION I Friday, June 22, 2001 • 3:15 – 4:45 p.m. Speaker Lynn Cohick Margot Eyring Joy Elasky Fleming Alan Johnson Dan Gentry Kent Catherine Clark Kroeger Anita Berardi Maher Patti Ricotta
Title of Workshop “African Christian Women: Biblical Images Inform Modern Concerns” “Prayer Plus Strategies to Empower the Church and Build Biblical Equality” “O, Curses: Genesis 2 & 3” “A Christian Understanding of Submission” “Women and Spiritual Gifts” “Women, Abuse and the Bible” “Nurturing Marital Intimacy: The Key to Building Egalitarian Relationships” “God’s Order Versus the World’s Order: Oneness Versus Hierarchy”
WORKSHOP SESSION II Saturday, June 23, 2001 • 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. Speaker Janet Burton Sharyn Dowd
Carol Gertz Sue & Eddie Hyatt John R. Kohlenberger III Catherine Clark Kroeger Lily Lee, Cecilia Yau, & Dora Wang Jan & Mike Lundy
Title of Workshop “Using Drama to Understand the Women in the Bible” “Let the Women Speak in Church: 1 Corinthians 14:34-35 as a Corinthian Slogan that Paul Opposes” “The Feminine Images of God in Scripture” “From Pentecost to Present Day: Women in Revival Movements” “Gender Accuracy in English Bible Translations: A Five Hundred Year Tradition” “Background to 1 Timothy” “Passion for Fullness: Examining the Woman’s Identity and Roles from Biblical, Historical and Sociological Perspectives” “Couple Spirituality: Sharing the Journey”
❖ CBE will have a book store at the conference. Hundreds of relevant books and tapes will be available. Authors will also sign your books at the Authors’ Autograph Party.
WORKSHOP SESSION III Saturday, June 23, 2001 • 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. Speaker Rosalie Beck Gilbert Bilezikian Bruce C.E. Fleming Coleen Cook Klecic Jim Pettit
Christy Thomas Joe Trull David Williams
Title of Workshop “Martyrs, Monastics and Missionaries: Great Women of the Faith” “A Biblical Challenge to the Southern Baptist Teaching on Women from a Fellow Baptist” “My Three Sins: 1 Timothy 1-3” “Listening to the Enemy: Why Gender Traditionalists Are Losing the Culture War” “The Subordination of Women: Spiritual, Psychological and Relational Consequence, and a Model for Experiencing Grace in the Midst of Oppression” “Ministering as a Team, When One is Official and One Isn’t” “Déjà Vu All Over Again: The Rhetoric of Pro-Slavery Appears Again” “Life Is a Box of Chocolates: Why Metaphors Matter”
CBE will be hosting a Silent Auction at the conference. If you would like to donate any items for the auction, please contact the CBE office.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 11 Spring 2001
Registration Conference Housing:
Registration (includes 2 dinners):
Rates for the Crowne Plaza North Dallas/Addison Hotel rooms are $99 per room for a single or double occupancy and $109 for a triple or quad occupancy. Call hotel reservations at (972) 980-8877 and ask for the Christians for Biblical Equality conference rate. All reservations should be made by Wednesday, May 30, 2001.
CBE individual member Registered by May 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 149.00 CBE individual member Registered after May 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 169.00 Nonmember Registered by May 15 Includes a one-year CBE membership . . . . . . . . .$ 184.00 Nonmember Registered after May 15 Includes a one-year CBE membership . . . . . . . . .$ 204.00 Child (kindergarten-6th grade) Care provided during General Sessions and Workshop Sessions . .$ 125.00 Student Rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 90.00 Individual from a CBE-member church . . . . . . . .$ 149.00 Name of congregation ______________________ One staff person of a CBE-member church . . . . .$ 84.00 Name of congregation ______________________ Additional contribution to help defray cost of conference $_______
Conference Meals: Friday night and Saturday night dinners are included in the registration price (a $55.00 value including gratuity and taxes). For other meals, enjoy the choice of 135 restaurants located within 5 square miles of the hotel.
Scholarships: Scholarships may become available. Call (612) 872-6898.
Booths: Booths are available . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$450.00 Includes one complementary registration with two dinners (a $200.00 value). Call (612) 872-6898 for details.
Cancellation and Refund Policy: Should you need to cancel your registration, contact CBE by fax (612-872-6891) or by mail (CBE Conference, 122 West Franklin Ave, Suite 218, Minneapolis, MN 55404) by the dates listed below: 1. Refund of fees (less cancellation fee of $25 per person) by May 15, 2001. 2. Refund of fees (less cancellation fee of $50 per person) by June 22, 2001. 3. No refund with no notice and no show.
TOTAL ENCLOSED: $_______
Payment: ___ Check enclosed, payable to Christians for Biblical Equality. ___ I authorize CBE to charge my credit card for the amount above. ____ MasterCard ____VISA ____ American Express ____Discover CARD NO.
EXPIRATION DATE
AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE NAME STREET ADDRESS CITY
Questions:
STATE/PROVINCE
• Regarding hotel reservations, airport shuttles or local transportation, call (972) 980-8877
COUNTRY
• Regarding conference registration, conference programming or CBE membership, call (612) 872-6898, or e-mail conference@cbeinternational.org.
Send Registration Form with Payment to: CBE Conference 122 West Franklin Ave, Suite 218 Minneapolis, MN 55404-2451 or Fax (612) 872-6891, or register online at www.cbeinternational.org
ZIP/POSTAL CODE
PHONE E-MAIL DENOMINATION
Workshop Preferences: Please select workshop by number. Workshop Session I Friday, June 22 1st Choice_______Alt._______ Workshop Session II Saturday, June 23 a.m. 1st Choice_______Alt._______ Workshop Session III Saturday, June 23 p.m. 1st Choice_______Alt._______
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 12 THE
Egalitarian Exchange
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Spring 2001
GOD’S D ISCOVERING DESIGN By Julia Bloom Julia Bloom manages, sings, plays and writes for two Minneapolis bands: Cabin of Love and St. Andrew’s Descent. She and her husband have a vision to write and perform songs that speak the truth in love to people who are unfamiliar with Jesus and his message of freedom, as well as to those in the family of Christ. I grew up in fundamentalist churches where women were taught to know their “place” and stay there. My parents accepted these ideas in theory, but not so much in practice, and at the same time they questioned many of the other things these churches taught. During my freshman year of college, my parents ended their lifelong affiliation with this denomination and began attending a new church. Throughout my high school and college years, my father and I developed a deep friendship. We would often stay up late into the night “philosophizing,” as my mom called it, or just talking about Jesus. We discussed many issues, but the issue of a woman’s role in marriage or ministry never came up. I wrestled with the issue briefly in college, but ended up just sweeping it under the rug in my mind because I didn’t notice it causing me any problems. “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” I decided.
As I became more entrenched in trying to work out this model of marriage, I began to delve into my past without realizing it. I patched together things I remembered learning in church, and then handed my ideas over to Nathan. I learned somewhere that my husband should be my “spiritual leader,” but that I shouldn’t push him into leadership because then I would be domineering. It was all very confusing, but I did my best to manipulate him into the role I believed God had designed for him. I knew what I wanted but couldn’t tell him, because that would be interfering with his leading. My silent manipulation wasn’t working though. I ended up telling him quite directly that he needed to be doing more than he was as spiritual leader — specifically, leading us in Bible study and prayer together, and also praying at meals. That was his job, I told him, and then felt sick because I was breaking the rules about my own job. At the same time I was plagued by tremendous fear for him, because he was spiritually accountable for me (another lie from somewhere in my past). What if he wasn’t doing his job right? At my best, I felt it wasn’t fair for him to be responsible for another’s soul, just because he was male. At my worst, I felt lucky to be female and free from responsibility for myself. Of course, in my heart of hearts, where the Holy Spirit lives, I knew this could not be right. - continued on page 13 -
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Just a few short months after I graduated from college, I married the man of my dreams. Nathan challenged my heart and mind, passionately loved Jesus and, like me, was a musician. I was so enthralled with him that I unconsciously worked to become like him in my thinking. His parents held traditional gender roles in their marriage, so naturally I thought that conforming to this model would please him.
This led to our first major and recurring fight over who did the cooking. Nathan loves to cook and wanted to take part in it. I, however, felt strongly that this was my role, and I defended it like the God-given calling I believed it was. I realize now that because I placed huge boundaries around my role as a wife, I was extremely hurt when Nathan tried to step inside the box I had drawn for myself. It was only so big, and if I got squeezed out, there would be no place for me.
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About this same time my father read Gilbert Bilezikian’s Beyond Sex Roles, and he couldn’t stop talking about it. As he told me later, this was one issue he had decided he didn’t need to rethink — he was closed to the idea of men and women as equals. But he heard Dr. Bilezikian speak at a church conference, and his words really challenged my father, who immediately bought and read the book. I too was challenged by some of the ideas my father shared with me from his reading, and it was then that I began opening my mind to the idea of biblical equality in theory, but not yet in practice. At this time God also began to speak to me that he had a unique calling for me, and I started opening up to his leading. I realized I had a responsibility to invest in the gifts he had given me, instead of burying them in the ground. I began spending more time and energy in songwriting, and I found it so fulfilling. I also began to see that our marriage was suffering. Nathan will readily admit that he can tend towards being overly opinionated at times, and this made it easier for me to defer my opinions to him. This behavior was my idea of submission as well as my natural inclination, since I tend to be more withdrawn. Somewhere along the way I lost touch with my own thoughts, and Nathan noticed it. My husband — the very one I was trying to please — told me he sometimes resented me because I was always deferring to him instead of sharing my thoughts or desires. This all came to a head a month or so before my 25th birthday, when Nathan told me about a marriage conference he had seen advertised in Prism magazine. A group called Christians for Biblical Equality was presenting it, and it would be held in Minneapolis, the very city in which we lived! He was thinking of taking me there for my birthday and wanted to know if I would be interested. I was amazed, because I had just seen the same ad and felt a strong desire to know more, but I had thought Nathan would disapprove of anything other than the traditional model of marriage.
Perhaps the most thrilling thing for me was Nathan’s response. Nathan, who I had thought was not open to these ideas, was instead very excited about them. We were both overjoyed to hear an explanation of Ephesians 5. Finally the passage made sense! Nathan told me later that in college he too had wrestled with the issue of women’s roles in ministry and marriage, but it hadn’t been clear to him, and he had sensed God telling him that he wasn’t ready for the answers yet. At this conference he began to get some of them. When we came home after the conference, Nathan asked me if he could please not be solely responsible for praying before meals anymore. He shared how he had always been uncomfortable in the position of “spiritual leader.” We soon discovered that mutual submission has freed both of us! All along in our marriage we have both seen the incredible ways we can work together and help one another. Now I feel free to take off the limits and be all God wants me to be. I am learning to take responsibility for my own walk with Christ and for the development of the gifts he has given me. Finally, I’m learning that Jesus really wants me to scrap the molds everybody else made for me. Instead of trying to squeeze into another mold, I’m waiting as God shapes me.
THE TRUTH WILL A ND SET YOU FREE! By Faith Totushek Faith Totushek has been a homemaker for 22 years. She is currently completing her Christian ministry degree at Crown College and beginning her M.Div. at Bethel Seminary in Saint Paul, Minn. - continued on page 14 -
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We discovered that the conference would cost us more than we could afford, but we would be able to volunteer in the bookstore to lower our price. Then my parents called in the middle of our discussion about whether we could go, and offered to take us to their church’s marriage conference for my birthday. I was further amazed, and shared our story with them, so they offered to help us pay for CBE’s conference instead. Later Nathan told his parents about the conference, and they offered to cover the remaining cost for us. We took the subtle hint from God and decided to go!
Neither of us knew what to expect at the conference, as we didn’t have any former contact with CBE and we hadn’t read any books on the subject. We already knew quite a lot about the traditional view of marriage though, so we decided we could learn something that might help us open our minds to a different viewpoint. We were not disappointed. At this conference we encountered gracious people who loved Jesus and respected one another, people who sought the truth, not personal gain or power. We learned the concept of mutual submission, and I realized that all the great marriages I could remember were in practice egalitarian, though some of them were made up of very vocal traditionalists. I brought home a pile of books, which I read hungrily. I was waking up; I felt so alive and free.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 14 Spring 2001
Egalitarian Exchange - continued from page 13 Each time I read Ephesians, I shuddered inwardly upon reading Chapter 5: “Wives submit to your husbands.” This passage was a neon light blinding me to the rest of the book. I felt the same shame when I read other passages with directives to women regarding silence, submission or authority. The worst was 1 Timothy 2, which implied that a woman could not be trusted with God’s word because of Eve’s deception. “Why, Father, did you make women this way?” I asked again and again. Shame is a powerful force in an individual’s life, especially when it is attached to one’s identity as a human being. At its root, shame is the sense of being wrong rather than doing wrong. Many feel bad for disobeying Scripture or going against God’s heart, but it is an entirely different matter to feel defective at the core of one’s self. That is how I felt as a woman: defective by virtue of my gender. I cannot pinpoint just where this idea originated, but rather it was as if I absorbed it from my culture, family and various church environments. I struggled to embrace the idea of being forgiven, redeemed or truly loved and called by God. My childhood was affected by spousal abuse, infidelity, control, legalism, anger, and most devastating, abandonment. The voices of women were discounted, second-guessed and challenged, but seldom valued. The needs of women were less important financially and emotionally. Educational aspirations were not affirmed, so I felt unintelligent and was unable to value even my own opinion. In my faith walk, I knew that salvation came by grace as a free gift from God, but felt as if after that it was all up to me. Upon entering my 20s, I began to ask the question, “What is a woman of God?” In the women’s Bible study groups, I learned about being submissive, supporting my husband’s endeavors, caring for my home, being a good mother and coordinating my wardrobe. I learned that I needed to live under my husband’s authority in order to have his protection and covering. I also learned that if my husband and I were in disagreement, I was always to yield to his leadership. Having been the child of a divorced family, I wanted desperately to be faithful in my marriage and raise my children in a godly home.
We were first exposed to another way of thinking when we purchased a tape series by David Johnson from Church of the Open Door. The set explained the difficult passages concerning women, clearing away the ambiguities and misunderstandings of Scripture. I learned that women and men were equally gifted and called by the Holy Spirit. I felt as if Christ was truly the deliverer of my sin and the one who paid my debt. For the first time I felt as if God’s grace truly applied to me as a woman. I still struggled with some of the Bible passages though. Inside I waged a war between freedom and fear as I tried to reconcile the conflicting messages. I began to study the Bible for the answers. • I studied the first three chapters of Genesis, discovering for the first time that there was no genuine order other than chronological. I looked up “helper” and “suitable” in the concordance, discovering that they did not have to mean subordinate unless one imposed that definition. God began to show me that leaders “helped.” I also saw that God asked both men and women to govern the earth. God did not create women to be subordinate to men but fully equal. • At the fall, I saw that men and women were equally responsible for disobeying God’s voice. The consequences of their disobedience affected how people related with God and one another. The Ten Commandments were written to address these broken relationships. They weren’t simply a bunch of rules — they expressed God’s heart for honoring, caring relationships between human beings and himself. • Returning to Ephesians, I learned in Chapter 1 how God purchased my redemption at the great cost of his Son and adopted me into his family as his child. How then could women still be subordinate to men? I was awakened to the fact that women were either redeemed or they weren’t. If the blood of Jesus Christ saved women, then lining up under some authority structure to become a godly woman was an addition to the gospel of grace, perverting it into a different gospel. • In Ephesians 5:22 I learned that Paul was addressing the Roman household codes so the gospel might effectively penetrate the culture and eliminate the fear of subversion. Paul lifted the - continued on page 15 -
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These ideas had incredible implications in my personal life, and contrary to the claims of role-based marriage theology, I was not fulfilled, nor was my marriage functioning well. My husband is a wonderful person, but was also naively assuming that what we had been taught was sound truth. He was a
great “servant leader” who desired to love me with his whole heart, so he felt completely responsible for my unhappiness. Such role-based theology was not effective in bringing the kind of oneness we both desired.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 15 Spring 2001
positions of women, children and slaves, granting them personhood. Because of the work of Christ, there are new possibilities for our human relationships born of our adoption into the family of God. No longer are barriers between Jews and Gentiles, slaves and free, or men and women important. As God’s word opened up, I began to see his heart for relationships that are born of his Spirit and reflective of his love. 1 John says if we are born of God and know God, we will love one another. Being born into God’s family changes everything, healing the breach that happened so long ago in the garden. Now I see a different vision for humanity: God’s vision for restored relationships. One day across this nation, men and women will serve God together, truly exhibiting the life-changing work of God. Our world will sit up, take notice and recognize the power of God displayed in transformed relationships. Then there will be no shame in being a woman. This knowledge of the truth has been transforming my relationships with my husband, my family, my church and others. We are learning new ways to relate that are not based on submission to authority structures but in submission to one another. The honesty that comes from two-sided communication, problem solving, building consensus and prayer is slowly changing us. Old paradigms are being broken and old ways shaken. Honestly, it has not been easy. Anger surfaces occasionally at the past repressive ways women have been treated; sometimes I feel defensive or have a harder time trusting. These are just bumps on the journey, and I am walking beyond them. Sometimes the shame returns and I must return to the knowledge of the truth. CBE has been an incredible resource affirming my studies and providing new insights supplementing the journey toward a life born of truth. I am filled with wonder at my God and joy in the knowledge that he really does love me and I am included as a “son” in the family of God!
POTLUCK W OMEN: PLANNERS OR PARTNERS? By Keith Nystrom
I’m not sure if I ever totally believed that the Bible mandated inequality between the sexes, but that’s just the way it was. I grew up in a church that didn’t necessarily preach such inequalities, but practiced them none the less. By their example I understood that there was a “man’s place” and a “woman’s place.” The men held positions of leadership and the women were in charge of the nursery and potluck dinners. I was the typical young Christian male who believed feminism was an enemy of the family, Promise Keepers was the most wonderful thing that could happen to a household, and women who pursued careers outside of the home were selfish and loved their families less than those that stayed home with the kids. I believed these things not because it made sense to do so, but because that is what the church taught by example. Although it wasn’t until I went to college that I consciously started thinking about biblical equality, I believe that my high school Sunday school teacher unknowingly prepared me for the message. She taught with conversation and mutual respect, not with planned lessons and lectures. I was impressed with how much she taught like Christ. While enrolled at Bethel College as a freshman, I took a biblical theology class from Dr. Greg Boyd. During one of his lectures, he said that to believe in one God who is of one mind, his Scripture must be consistent and of one message. It seemed so obvious, but I had never thought of it that way. For example, I couldn’t believe Galatians 3:28 (“There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.”) and at the same time believe that 1 Timothy 2:12 was a universal command (“I permit no woman to teach or have authority over a man; she is to keep silent.”) If 1 Timothy 2:12 is a universal command, then Galatians 3:28 is a lie, and all are not one in Christ. If all are not one in Christ, then that makes God a liar and ultimately not God. But if 1 Timothy 2:12 is a command to a certain group of believers based on circumstances that we don’t fully understand, then Scripture can be reconciled. All of a sudden biblical equality became important to me, not only because of the heavy theological implications of believing in inequality, but also because I finally saw the relational consequences of - continued on page 16 -
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Keith Nystrom is a 21-year-old student at Ridgewater College in Hutchinson, Minn., where he is studying audio
technology. He has previously studied stringed instrument repair and construction, and loves to play the guitar.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 16 Spring 2001
Egalitarian Exchange - continued from page 15 inequality — the harm we do to each other based on such beliefs. Around the time I became concerned with equality, I started to become really good friends with two women. I started realizing what fascinating people they were, perhaps because I finally understood that women weren’t just for marrying; it was OK to have them as close friends. Too often Christian women adopt their husband’s identity as their own, losing themselves in the process. I would hate to someday wake and find that my close friends had put their dreams, talents and perspectives on the back burner to become “good Christian wives.” That is exactly what many churches ask and expect of women. Romans 14:13 says, “Let us therefore no longer pass judgment on one another, but resolve instead never to put a stumbling block or a hindrance in the way of another.” I believe hierarchical teachings about men and women may have served as a stumbling block for many Christians. All I know is that if I were a woman, I would have a hard time standing.
Gladys M. Nothstein Bausman was born on Feb. 3, 1920, and died Oct. 1, 2000. In 1959, she was the first woman elected as Township Supervisor in Mahoning Township and in Carbon County, and the seventh woman in the state of Pennsylvania. Along with her husband George, she owned and operated Bausman’s Goat Dairy, one of 14 goat dairies in Pennsylvania during the 1950s and 1960s. Her children, Wendy and Kevin Bausman, each have written a tribute for her.
kindred spirit that exists among women who have lost their mothers. These women cried with me and told me, “There is something deep that happens in our souls when a woman loses her mother.” All of these women talked of mothers who loved them and modeled that every woman can be all that God wants her to be. I never heard my mom say, “A woman can do anything with her life.” Rather I saw her doing so much with her life as a woman. So, despite a culture that often said otherwise, I grew up believing the future was bright with possibilities. Mom only had an eighth-grade education; yet she wanted not only a high school diploma for me, but a college degree as well. I remember Mom filling out one financial aid form after another to find the help I needed to get through college. All of us found it difficult when I went to California to go to Fuller Theological Seminary. But it was time, and Mom let go. I know my decision to go into the Navy as a chaplain surprised her. She was worried at first, but she and Dad were proud I wore the uniform and served our country. Eventually the bumper sticker, “My daughter is in the U.S. Navy,” appeared on their car, and they followed my career all over the world. Mom and Dad were with me at one of my promotions and when I received one of my medals. I felt Mom’s pride and especially her prayers. She listened to many a tearful story of the challenges of my ministry and of being in the military. She knew I was part of two traditions that have not always embraced the giftedness of women. Mom experienced her own pain as a pioneer woman in politics so she understood what I was experiencing.
TRIBUTE A LOVING TO MOM
On Sept. 30 at midnight I separated from the U.S. Navy, completing almost 15 years as a chaplain. Mom died the next morning. I believe she waited to leave this earth until she saw me through my ministry in the Navy.
By Wendy Bausman
My connection to Mom deepened two and a half years ago when I became a mother. Suddenly I had a new perspective on her. As I sat and rocked Amanda, I remembered distinctively a time when Mom rocked and comforted me when I was ill as a little girl. I felt so loved and safe.
Wendy Lee Bausman received her bachelor’s degree from Cedar Crest College, Allentown, Pa., and her M.Div. from Fuller Theological Seminary, Pasadena, Calif. She is ordained in the Presbyterian Church (USA), and she recently completed 15 years as a Navy chaplain. She has been married for 13 years to the Rev. David E. Houdeschell, and they have a 2- year-old daughter, Amanda.
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When the news of my mom’s death spread throughout my congregation and the naval base in Port Hueneme, Calif., I began to learn about the
As I live out being a mother, I often find myself whispering out loud, “Mom, how did you do it? How did you balance a baby, a toddler, the goat dairy and all your other household responsibilities?” And often I find myself saying, “So this is how it feels to love your child. This is how you have felt, Mom.” - continued on page 17 -
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I am grateful that Mom got to see and hold Amanda. She and Dad had prayed so diligently for my husband and me to have a baby. The last time Mom saw Amanda, almost a year ago, she said to me, “I was so happy for you when your baby was born.” A friend who lost her beloved mother a few years ago said to me, “Wendy, our strong mothers have passed down their strength and courage to us. And now we pass it down to our children.” I will tell Amanda about her strong and pioneering grandmother. I will tell Amanda that her grandmother told me about God, so I now share God with her. And I will tell Amanda how her grandmother paved the way for me, and in turn for her, to use the gifts God has given to us.
SPIRITUAL IMPACT T HE OF MOM By Rev. Kevin Bausman A graduate of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, the Rev. Kevin Bausman is a pastor at Southport Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis, Ind., where he has served for the past 11 years. He and his wife, Mary Jane, have three children: David, Jonathan and Christine. Kevin has also written several editorials for The Indianapolis News and The Indianapolis Star. When we read an obituary in the newspaper, we see the visible side of a person’s life — his or her church or organization memberships and accomplishments in life. What we don’t read, however, is how the person touched others in some special way. I’d like to share how Mom spiritually touched the lives of my sister Wendy and me. When we were children, Mom made sure we had Christian records to listen to, Bible games and toys to play with, our first Bible to read, and that we attended Vacation Bible School every year. Even though Vacation Bible School came at one of the busiest times of the year on the farm — when we would be taking in hay — Mom made sure we went to those two weeks of evening sessions, despite any protests from us. She made sure we attended Sunday School and church on a regular basis, and she introduced us to the first woman pastor we had ever known, Rev. Viola Rothacker. She also introduced us to our first missionary — one of her closest friends, Dena Speering, who served our Lord in Africa.
When I was about 8 years old, I was singing the hymn “Onward Christian Soldiers” while cleaning the barn one evening. I saw Jesus dying on the cross in the back of my mind. I began to cry and ran up to the house and asked Mom why Jesus had to die on the cross. She said, “Because he loves us.” That night I fell in love with Jesus and decided to follow him as Lord and Savior. As a child I did not like reciting memory verses, being in a skit or singing a song in front of all those people at Sunday School Christmas programs or family reunions. One time Mom made up a song for Wendy and me to sing at the family reunion. Mom said she’d help us sing it, but when the time arrived, I didn’t think Mom was helping enough. I stopped, looked at Mom, and said into the microphone, “I thought you were supposed to help us.” Everyone roared with laughter, but it didn’t phase or embarrass Mom. We just kept going and finished the song! Mom helped me with my childhood shyness by having me focus on Jesus to help me overcome it. She put a Bible verse on a small card on a bureau mirror in my room. I would see it every morning when I got dressed as well as several times throughout the day. It remained on that mirror for over 20 years. I still have that card and just looked at it recently. Even though it is old and yellow you can still clearly read Mom’s handwriting. The verse is from Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Jesus which strengthens me.” With Jesus’ help and strength, I overcame my shyness of speaking in front of people. Like all Christians, Mom had struggles and brokenness in her walk as a Christian. She also had victories as well. But through it all, Mom tried to serve and follow Jesus as best she could and as best as she knew how. She has now had the privilege that waits every Christian of at last seeing Jesus face to face.
To honor someone special for Mother’s Day, tell us about how your mother or another inspirational woman has impacted your life. Your story may appear in the next issue of Mutuality. Deadline for next issue is April 1, 2001.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 18 Spring 2001
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BE HOSTS BOOTH AT EVANGELICAL THEOLOGICAL SOCIETY
Each year, CBE materials make their way to many denomination and scholarly events. Thanks to the generous support of our donors, in November CBE continued to have a presence at the Evangelical Theological Society (ETS), which is a professional society of biblical scholars, students, teachers, pastors and others involved in evangelical scholarship. CBE hosted a booth, where we distributed promotional materials and made available books, tapes and articles about biblical equality. This was also a valuable opportunity for us to meet CBE friends and create new relationships with Christian scholars from around the country and world. Many people had not yet heard of CBE, including several seminary students who were interested in researching the issue. They felt we provided important resources to help them in their study. We also felt privileged to have been able to meet several professors at conservative colleges and seminaries who still present biblical equality in the classroom, a few doing so at some risk. ETS also provided an important time for CBE members and friends to support and encourage each other. One evening when gathered for dinner we were able to share some of our painful struggles and successes in promoting biblical equality. Throughout the conference we also heard several poignant stories
CBE Executive Director Mimi Haddad and Book Service Coordinator Joanne Nystrom attended the ETS conference in November.
from people yearning to use their gifts, such as an Old Testament professor no longer allowed to teach in a Southern Baptist seminary because she is a woman. We were grateful for this opportunity to build relationships and widely distribute information about biblical equality!
H ONOR WITHIN OUR RANKS Deborah Olsoe Lunde has been ordained in the Evangelical Lutheran Church. She is one of seven pastors who works with Tri-County Ministries serving eight churches: seven ECLA churches and one Presbyterian church.
Videos on Public Access Share CBE with your television community! Many public access stations are looking for additional programming, and CBE videos are the perfect fit. Check out the marriage conference videos on page 29.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 19 Spring 2001
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EW STAFF MEMBERS AT CBE
Winnie Tan became CBE’s Dallas Conference Coordinator in January 2001.
Sarah Edwards became CBE’s Executive Administrative Assistant in August 2000.
As a child I attended a bilingual church with my parents. The service was approximately an hour and fifteen minutes long with everything said twice — once in English, once in Mandarin. Needless to say, I didn’t hear much of what was being taught.
I am a 23-year-old Bethel College graduate just recently married to my husband, Nathan Edwards. In the past year there have been many changes in my life. Getting married was a huge one and joining CBE came shortly thereafter.
Winnie Tan Dallas Conference Coordinator
In middle school, a friend invited me to youth group events where I learned about Christ. From the beginning I was taught that men and women were created equal — that everyone has gifts to offer the kingdom. As I was born with an incredibly independent spirit, those teachings fell right in line with my personal beliefs, and I didn’t question them. Although I knew some people believed women were inferior to men in marriage, I had never actually met anyone who believed that to be true in all aspects of life. It wasn’t until college that I encountered opposition to my lifelong beliefs. Through discussions and research with classmates and professors, however, I came to the same conclusion: God created men and women to complement, not to compete — and one gender is not better than, or above, the other.
Sarah Edwards Executive Administrative Assistant
For several months I had heard my friend Joanne talk about her new job. I could tell she was thrilled to be able and encouraged to use her God-given gifts in a place that she had not been able to before: the Christian realm. When I started looking for a new job, Joanne suggested that I apply at CBE, and I decided to see what the organization was about. As I joined the staff in the prayer circle the day I interviewed, I knew this was the place for me! I don’t think I quite understood all that CBE did, but I did know that the women who worked here were amazing, and that the atmosphere, message and ministry as a whole were things that I could get behind and work hard for.
I first read about CBE in a church bulletin. I immediately visited their Web site and contacted them. At the time I had just resigned from my job, and was looking to work for something I believe in, doing what I love.
Being a part of the marriage conference in October was truly a blessing. Seeing so many people empowered to live and serve in such a variety of ways on a daily basis is indeed inspiring! Now as we are growing, gaining new employees and looking ahead to the Dallas Conference, I am excited to experience all that God has in store for me here at Christians for Biblical Equality!
I feel extremely blessed to have this opportunity to work in ministry utilizing the gifts God has given me. I am thankful for this channel in which I can further the kingdom.
CBE Counselors and Therapists Directory Mutuality will be publishing the CBE Counselors and Therapists Directory next issue. If you or someone you know is a counselor or therapist who agrees with CBE’s Statement of Faith, is (or would like to be) an active CBE member, and wishes to be included in the directory, please contact the CBE office.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 20 Spring 2001
Church Membership Application Form CBE church membership is available to those who support CBE’s Statement of Faith. All fees in U.S. Dollars: (Please check one)
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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.
SHOULD W HYCHURCHES JOIN CBE? Do you remember how your life changed when you first heard the message of biblical equality? Can you remember the exhilaration of knowing you were free to use your gifts alongside your brothers and sisters in Christ? Now imagine what a difference an entire egalitarian church could make in encouraging its members to use their gifts! Churches may now become members of CBE in order to receive benefits that will encourage them in equipping the people in their communities. Church membership also provides important support for CBE’s ministry. Benefits of church membership include: • 20% discount on all items purchased from CBE’s Book Service
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• Group discounts for church members to CBE conferences, including a 50% discount on one church staff’s registration fee
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• A year’s subscription to CBE’s quarterly publications, Mutuality and Priscilla Papers • A complimentary book each year
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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
• Access to our video lending library Imagine being able to check out Mutuality and Priscilla Papers from your church library. Think of the inspiration and fellowship your church’s staff member would receive from being able to attend our Dallas Conference at half price! CBE church membership is designed to provide both leadership and laity with the tools they need to use their gifts. Why not give a gift membership for one year to your egalitarian church? This gift will allow your church to become familiar with CBE’s ministry and the benefits of membership. Please fill out the adjoining form today and send it to CBE.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 21 Spring 2001
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E PRAISE GOD... E THANK GOD... E PRAY TO GOD...
You are God: we praise you; You are the Lord: we acclaim you; You are the eternal Father: All creation worships you. To you all angels, all the powers of heaven, Cherubim and Seraphim, sing in endless praise: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might, Heaven and earth are full of your glory. From the Te Deum laudamus (4th century)
We praise God for… • Partners and Visionaries whose commitment to financially support CBE in 2001 is tangible proof of God’s desire to increase understanding of the fundamental equality of men and women of all racial and ethnic groups, all economic classes, and all age groups. • CBE Members whose financial support is given through membership, tithes, monthly and quarterly contributions, and in-kind gifts of equipment and professional services. • CBE’s growing number of volunteers whose gifts and experience touch CBE through all branches of our ministry as well as through writing, arts, communication, media and graphics. • For Christians who decided to support women and men in their gift-based ministries after the SBC’s recent statement limiting the role of pastor to men. • For the beautiful conference brochure designed for CBE’s Dallas Conference on June 22-24, 2001, listing world-renowned speakers, panelists, workshop and worship leaders. • For the exciting and encouraging letters we continue to receive in response to CBE’s 2000 Marriage Conference as well as orders for marriage conference videotapes and audiotapes, and books discussing marriage and gift-based roles in home and ministry. • For over 90 book orders the last week of December.
• Virginia Patterson, the retiring Chair of CBE’s Board of Directors, has inspired board members and CBE staff to grow as professionals for the past six years. • Dan Kent, the new Chair of CBE’s Board, who will provide leadership to board members as they support staff in creating and improving resources. • CBE’s Dallas Conference brochure that is being delivered to tens of thousands of CBE members, students at Christian universities and colleges, and churches throughout Texas and the surrounding states. • Providing funds to purchase a much-needed copier. • New staff member Winnie Tan, CBE’s Dallas Conference Coordinator. • A corporate donation of two computers and a private donation of all necessary software so CBE’s new staff member has complete access to CBE’s network, e-mail and internet systems. • Plans to send Book Service Coordinator Joanne Nystrom, to Springfield, Mo., to participate in the Assemblies of God “Women in Ministry” conference from March 12-14, 2001. • Participation in the “Global Celebration of Women” conference in Houston, Texas, from September 1921, 2001. • Four general session presentations from CBE’s 2000 Marriage Conference are available as videotapes and all general session and workshop presentations are available as audiotapes through CBE’s book service. Please pray daily for CBE, honoring Galatians 3:28. As we daily confront our personal needs and the needs of others, we would do well to keep 1 Peter 5:611 strongly in mind. Based on the words of our Lord in Mark 14:38 is this hymn written by the 19th century poet Charlotte Elliott. Christian, seek not yet repose, Cast thy dreams of ease away; Thou art in the midst of foes: Watch and pray. Gird thy heavenly armor on, Wear it ever night and day; Near thee lurks the evil one; Watch and pray. Principalities and powers Mustering their unseen array Wait for thine unguarded hours; Watch and pray. - continued on page 22 -
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O give thanks to the Lord, call on his name, make known his deeds among the peoples! Psalm 105:1 RSV
We thank God for…
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 22 Spring 2001
Please Pray to God - continued from page 21
• CBE’s participation in Baptist Women in Ministry’s five-year vision.
Hear, the victors who o’ercame; Still they watch each warrior’s way; All with one deep voice exclaim, Watch and pray.
General Office Needs • Favorable terms in purchasing a new copier. • Wisdom in using CBE’s resources and savings on publishing, printing and office supplies. • Upgrading communication and mailing systems. • Redesigning CBE’s Web site to include audio and video. • Raising CBE’s rank in Web Search Engines, thus increasing accessibility to our Web site. • Creating an inviting and professional office layout at our international headquarters. • Needed office furniture, especially an attractive bookcase.
Hear above all these, thy Lord, Him thou lovest to obey; Hide within thy heart his word, Watch and pray. Watch, as if on that alone Hung the issue of the day; Pray that help may be sent down; Watch and pray.
Please pray to God for…
Book Service • Designing, printing and mailing CBE’s 2001 Book Service Catalog. • Continued growth in book sales through our online Book Service. • The opportunity to work with CBE member volunteers helping at the bookstore during the Dallas Conference in Texas on June 22-24, 2001. Chapters • Monthly meetings held by the Greater Phoenix Chapter, Ariz. • Newly chartered chapter in Chico, Calif. Pray that they will be able to gain the attention of church leaders. • Chapters in process in Grand Rapids, Mich., and Connecticut. • Bible study and speakers in the Santa Cruz Chapter, Calif. - continued on page 23 -
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Ministry • God’s plan to increase understanding of the fundamental equality of men and women of all racial and ethnic groups, all economic classes, and all age groups. • Encouragement for pastors and individuals in churches, schools and seminaries who are struggling alone to bring forward the message of biblical equality. • Protection and guidance for those suffering physical or spiritual abuse in churches, seminaries or homes. • New Partners and Visionaries who pledge to sustain CBE’s ministry and resources. • Development and growth of the individual and household Membership Program to provide resources that support those desiring to teach and practice biblical equality. • Development and growth of the Church Membership Program to provide resources that support churches desiring to teach and practice biblical equality. • Development of adult education church curriculum and leadership training for chapters and churches. • Growth of the Egalitarian Church List on CBE’s Web site. • An increased CBE presence on Christian college and university campuses through subscriptions to Priscilla Papers. • Promotion of egalitarian scholarship and increased distribution of Priscilla Papers through development of staff, student intern programs and strategic marketing. • Opportunities to partner with like-minded ministries to bring forward the message of biblical equality. • Unity among egalitarians and their direction of resources, gifts and prayers toward equipping CBE’s ministry to broadly communicate the truth of biblical equality.
Conferences • CBE’s 7th Biennial International Conference “Equipping the Church, Empowering the Saints” (Ephesians 4:11-16), June 22-24, 2001 in Dallas, Texas. • God would encourage and provide funds for many to attend the Dallas conference, especially church leaders. • Encouragement and travel arrangements for conference speakers and presenters; health and physical protection for staff, speakers and presenters for Dallas conference. • Funds for promotion of the conference; inserting the Dallas Conference brochure into Christian publications distributed in and around Texas; advertising for Christian publications; and mailing posters and flyers to churches, chapter meetings, and college and university campuses. • Finalize hotel site details, conference materials, etc.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 23 Spring 2001
• God’s inspiration for selecting projects by members of the Pikes Peak Chapter, Colo. • Continued growth in the newly chartered Central Florida Chapter. • Events planned for the Missouri Gateway Chapter. • Newly installed co-president and ongoing Bible study in Smithtown-Long Island Chapter, N.Y. • Book discussion series in Triangle Area-RaleighDurham Chapter, N.C. • Spring marriage conference in Greater Portland Chapter, Ore. • The North Texas Chapter’s 2nd One-Day Winter Conference to be held Saturday, Feb. 24, 2001. • Norwegian Chapter‘s plan for a 10-year anniversary banquet in Oslo, Aug. 31-Sept. 1, 2001. International • CBE’s 7th Biennial International Conference “Equipping the Church, Empowering the Saints” in Dallas, Texas, from June 22-24, 2001. • CBE’s participation in “Global Celebration of Women” in Houston, Texas, from Sept. 19-21, 2001. • Translation of CBE materials into more languages. • Safety of those living in the trouble spots of the world. Prayers for Members • Health/Illness/Surgery Lois, Paul, Gary, Patty, Mary, Amy, Carol, Holly, Carl, Merle, Gordon, Mary, LaVonne, Amy, Sarah, Hattie, Shalini, Molly, DeLane, Betty, Bill.
• Home/Family Susie, Jennifer, Diane, Steve, Jenny, Joanne, Pat, Rene, Sharon, Cossette, Julie, Bernice, Sarah, Nathan, Willie, LaShawn, Mary Jane, Rob, Denise, Mary, Valerie, Wendy, David, Barb, Kate.
•Career/Ministry/Travel Sharon, Ron, David, Amber, Gilbert, Sandra, Nathan, Jen, Trevor, Liz, Mimi, Marlys, Sarah, Craig, Bronwin, Liz, Kathy, Kay, Charles, Laura, Brett, Robert, Ruth, Tom, Maria, Holly, Suzanne, Greg, Virginia, Polly, Daniel, Sharon, David, Wendy, Carol, Phyllis, Dennis, Linda, Megan, Jim, Barb, Steve, Debbie, Jenny, Jane, Jocelyn, Debra, Joyce, Laura, Jo Ellen, Roberta, Jeanette, Faith, Jeanine, Julia, Nathan, Dan, Rhonda, Patti, Linda, Marv, Sue, Mary, Joanne, Winnie.
May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones. I Thessalonians 3:12-13 NIVI 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.
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.
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, simply send your name and credentials to CBE at cbe@cbeinternational.org. Thank you!
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 24 Spring 2001
T
HE CHAPTERS CORNER
If you are involved or hope to become involved with a CBE chapter, plan to attend the CBE Chapter Leaders Workshop on Friday, June 22, from 9:3011:30 a.m. at our Dallas conference. Alice Scott Ferguson from Colorado Springs, Colo., will lead devotions. Several talented chapter leaders will share their insights during a panel discussion moderated by Sharon Browning, coordinator of the North Texas Chapter.
Recent and Upcoming Chapter Activities CALIFORNIA Chico Chapter As a new chapter, the Chico chapter has met twice. At their last meeting, Jeff Bisaga led a devotion from Acts. The chapter has decided to alternate every other month between chapter meetings and prayer meetings. For more information, contact greentea@thegrid.net. San Diego Chapter On Jan. 26, Dr. Nancy Heidebrecht presented, “Did Jesus Have a Grandmother? The Power of Grandmothers in Biblical Israel.” At the meeting they experienced a fascinating talk on the influence of two female Bible characters that shaped the monarchies of Saul and David. The conversation focused on the fact that women in the Bible, although cast as independent, have generally been described by scholars as only participating in supporting roles for major male leaders. The power of grandmothers is often overlooked, especially as they influenced the first two kings of Israel. Santa Cruz Chapter In November, the Vanderhoofs, Van Loons and Fujimotos gave reports on the inspiring CBE Marriage Conference in Minneapolis.
In January they began a study on the Bible’s model for relationships using the workbook, Male and Female in Christ; Nineteen Studies on What the Bible Says about Authority and the Roles of Women, by Carrie Miles and Laurence R. Iannaccone with Linda Ikeda. Mark Vanderhoof led a look at the Genesis account to understand the roles and status of women and men at creation, how that changed with the first sin, and how God restores us to his original design by sending Jesus not only as the perfect model but to remove the effects of sin. On Feb. 10, guest speaker Karen Lansing presented “The Leaving.” Karen is a local therapist and former pastor and prison minister who recounted her journey in ministry. She shared how loving, practical and extremely frugal God has been in making use of every thread within the tapestry of her life. On March 10 and April 21, the study from Male and Female in Christ will continue and in April the new CBE chapter in Chico will join the Santa Cruz chapter. For directions or more information, contact cvanloon@jps.net.
COLORADO Pikes Peak Chapter The meeting on Jan. 11 was a blessed time with a sense of God’s presence, energy and leading. Conversation ranged wide with possible plans, but narrowed then to a sense that the chapter should first center on restoring support for each other by regular meetings, rather than ambitious (and wearying) plans. The next meeting is scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 11 at 3 p.m. The chapter believes that its first task is to pray and seek God’s leading for their next projects. One idea that surfaced for the Pikes Peak Chapter was to provide prayer and support for women in ministry or women who feel called to ministry but are not - continued on page 25 -
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In December the chapter celebrated its first anniversary with a potluck dinner. They recognized the chapter’s steering committee and its success in planning chapter events using a consensus model. Their chapter mentor, Carrie Miles, spoke to them on “The Mystery of Marriage in Everyday Life: A Closer
Look at Ephesians 5 & 6.” They saw how Paul, rather than encouraging the first century norm of inequality and male privilege, was actually turning these worldly concepts on their head. Carrie is an organizational psychologist from San Jose, Calif.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 25 Spring 2001
encouraged. If God leads, they will try to put feet to this idea at the next meeting. For information, contact pettitk@ccmi.org.
CONNECTICUT Chapter in Process The video, “What Does the Bible Teach About Marriage?” featuring Alvera Mickelsen, was presented at the Waterford Public Library, as well as the Groton Public Library Jan. 13 and 29. For more information, contact Equality3in1@aol.com.
NEW YORK Smithtown, Long Island Chapter On Jan. 15, a Martin Luther King Celebration/ Memorial Service was held. The group enjoyed hearing from Cheryl Carter as the keynote speaker. Stan Blair sang along with the children with his latest installment from the NIV Kid’s Club music video series. Minister Ava Carroll led in prayer. They had a splendid time celebrating the memories of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. There are also plans to start a Bible study about issues of equality. For more information, contact jfort31962@aol.com.
FLORIDA Central Florida Chapter The chapter enjoyed visits from Gilbert Bilezikian as well as Elaine Storkey and her husband, Alan. The chapter also now welcomes Patti Ricotta as their coordinator. At the November meeting, Dr. Roger Nicole gave personal insight into the history of CBE and taught on the topic of “The Biblical Mary.” In February there are plans for an educational forum to be shared with a small group. One of the chapter’s founding members, Dr. Vivian Carrington, celebrated her 60th birthday and the city of Orlando recognized her at a formal celebration. The Central Florida CBE Chapter issued a proclamation in her honor. Carol Thiessen, the editor of Priscilla Papers, has attended several steering committee meetings and the group is looking forward to a possible “writing workshop” under her expertise. In an effort to reach more people, the group has purchased several videos from CBE and is planning on sharing them with interested parties. They are enjoying the fellowship of like-minded Christians but seek continued prayers for their “birthing pains.” For more information, contact PoppaBiz@aol.com.
NORTH CAROLINA Triangle Area - Raleigh-Durham Chapter There have been ongoing discussions of Jack and Judy Balswick’s book, The Family: A Christian Perspective on the Contemporary Home (2nd Edition), which is available from the CBE book store. Below is the schedule for this series: • From Sept. 1 through Feb. 2: Chapters 1-13 were covered. • Mar 2: Chapters 14-15, emphasis on 15 • April: Since Alice Matthews will be here on the first Friday (April 6) for our Spring Speaker event, we will have our April discussion group the week before her visit, March 30: Chapter 16. • May 4: Chapters 17-18. For more information, contact mboccia@email.unc.edu.
OREGON Greater Portland Chapter On Nov. 11, Carolyn and John Kohlenberger spoke about the October CBE marriage conference. There is a spring marriage conference event planned for Saturday, March 10, 2001, featuring the Rev. Aída Besançon Spencer and the Rev. William Spencer. For more information, contact CBEOregon@yahoo.com.
MISSOURI
TEXAS
Gateway Chapter On Feb. 10, the Gateway Chapter hosted an event with a local Southern Baptist congregation that has female pastoral staff members. For more information, contact MGAdrvr@aol.com.
North Texas Chapter The North Texas Chapter’s 2nd One-Day Winter Conference will be held Saturday, Feb. 24, 2001, at the Mesquite Convention Center from 8:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This conference will feature Cathie Kroeger speaking on “Sexuality in the Early Church” and ▲
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Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 26 Spring 2001
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 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 ___ / ___
The Chapters Corner - continued from page 25 George Yancey speaking on “Is Homophobia the Same as Racism and Sexism?” The Conference fee is $30 per person or $50 per couple and includes a continental breakfast and hot lunch. Space is limited to 100. For more information, contact sharonb51@hotmail.com.
NORWAY Norwegian Chapter The Norwegian chapter held its International Conference in August 2000 in the south coast town of Kritiansand. The speakers were: Per-Axel Sverker from Sweden, Marit Landrø, Kari Hilde French, Hilde Fjeldstad, Astir Anfindsen and Astri Fladberg from Norway, Kari and Bob Malcom from the United States, and Valerie and Michael Griffiths from England. In addition to the competent speakers and beautiful scenery, the Lord blessed them with the best of weather. Currently they are planning a 10-year anniversary banquet, which will be held in Oslo, Aug. 31 and Sept. 1. More information will be available later and all are welcome to attend.
The Toolbox, CBE’s chapter manual, is now on CBE’s Web site for reading or downloading. The Toolbox was designed to help in the process of forming a new CBE chapter and to serve as a reference for chartered chapters. It gives helpful and practical information gleaned from over 10 years of experience starting chapters all over the world.
I N HONOR OF... Camille Muir James and Marion Parker have made a contribution to Christians for Biblical Equality in honor of the memory of Camille Muir.
Authorized Signature _____________________________
Mrs. Gladys Bausman Please clip and mail to: Christians for Biblical Equality 122 West Franklin Ave., Suite 218 Minneapolis, MN 55404-2451
Al and June Barrow have made a contribution to Christians for Biblical Equality in honor of the memory of Mrs. Gladys Bausman.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 27 Spring 2001
B OOK REVIEW:
10 LIES THE CHURCH TELLS WOMEN: HOW THE BIBLE HAS BEEN MISUSED TO KEEP WOMEN IN SPIRITUAL BONDAGE
By J. Lee Grady 224 pages, Creation House, 2000. B186P . . . .Regular Price $12.99, Special Offer $9.99 Reviewed by Kriss Erickson In a conversational, no-nonsense approach to a controversial issue, 10 Lies the Church Tells Women discusses 10 traditional ideas many Christian churches have used to claim the Bible restrains women from leadership. J. Lee Grady, the editor of Charisma magazine, counters these unscriptural mindsets with his message of freedom for women to be all that God is calling them to be. The book looks carefully at biblical texts used to support traditional church teachings in ten major areas. Among the lies Grady challenges are: • Lie #1: God created women as inferior beings, destined to serve their husbands. • Lie #3: Women must not teach or preach to men in a church setting. • Lie #7: Women are more easily deceived than men. As a woman who grew up in fundamentalist Christianity, I could identify with the scriptural references discussed, and the limits churches traditionally place on women.
give the sermon. Mr. Arnold gave a threeminute “sermon,” then turned the meeting over to his wife. This book also illustrates how an accurate understanding of the Bible affects relationships between people. Grady shows through the context of the Bible how men and women are designed to work together, instead of being adversaries. To this end, the book concludes with 10 steps churches can take to fully empower women for church leadership. “Men cannot be threatened by women who simply want to obey God,” Grady says. I recommend this book as a an encouragement for all women and a strong affirmation for women who have felt God’s call but have been afraid to follow it. The principles discussed can help women in their relationships with God and others. If church leaders implement even a few of Grady’s suggestions, women will have renewed hope to take their place as allies with men in sharing the gospel.
In addressing the difficult passages, Grady points out that many of the restrictions put upon women from the days of Adam and Eve have been cultural. This book also discusses many superstitions that have been used by churches as “proofs” that women are weaker or more easily corrupted than men, such as menstruation and other natural processes.
Kriss Erickson has been a freelance writer for over 24 years and has written 150 stories, articles, devotionals, self-help articles and recipes. She is presently seeking to enter master’s programs of divinity and Christian counseling at Mars Hill Graduate School in Bothell, Wash.
Grady shows how God used women in both the Old and New Testaments to lead in many ways, and each chapter contains stories of women who followed their callings. In the example of preacher Shirley Arnold and her husband, the couple was invited to speak at several churches in Romania. When they arrived, the church leaders gave Mrs. Arnold permission only to give a short introduction and wanted Mr. Arnold to
To order, visit our Web site at www.cbeinternational.org. You may also place your order toll free in the U.S. at (877) 285-2256, by phone at (612) 872-6898 or by fax at (612) 872-6891.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 28 Spring 2001
B OOK SERVICE NEWS New Books Growing Strong Daughters: Encouraging Girls to Become All They’re Meant to Be By Lisa Graham McMinn This provocative book offers insight into how parents can help their daughters develop confidence, a balanced self-image and the ability to think and speak for themselves. McMinn bases her practical advice on the teachings of Scripture that women are image-bearers of the Lord and co-stewards over God’s creation. 239 pages, Baker Book House, 2000. B181P . . . . .Was $14.99/ Introductory Price $10.99* Strangers and Pilgrims: Female Preaching in America, 1740-1845 By Catherine A. Brekus In this well-documented and readable history of a forgotten group, Brekus examines the lives of more than a hundred female preachers — both white and African American — who crisscrossed the country between 1740 and 1845. This history also documents their calls to preach, theology and defense of female preaching. 480 pages, Univ of North Carolina Press, 1998. B182P . . . . .Was $17.95/Introductory Price $13.95*
Biblical Foundations for Small Group Ministry: An Integrational Approach By Gareth Weldon Icenogle Gareth Weldon Icenogle examines biblical teaching and the ministry of the early church, offering guidance for setting up and running a biblically-based small group ministry program. This resource demonstrates the importance of both women and men as participants and leaders of small groups. 396 pages, InterVarsity Press, 1994. B184P . . . . .Was $17.99/Introductory Price $12.99* Is This the One? 9 Tests for Marriage By Keith R. Anderson In this reader-friendly booklet, Keith Anderson offers 9 creative tests to help couples evaluate the strength and durability of their relationship — and he offers suggestions for growth in each area. Anderson also addresses issues of integrity, sincerity, discipline in the area of sexual behavior, and the spiritual aspect of marriage. 32 pages, IVP, 1996. B185L . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1.00 - continued on page 29 -
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Priscilla’s Letter: Finding the Author of the Epistle to the Hebrews By Ruth Hoppin Using biblical, archeological, historical and psychological research, Hoppin contends that Priscilla — a leader in the early church and an associate of Paul — is the anonymous early Christian writer of Hebrews. One does not need to share Hoppin’s certainty on the author’s identity to profit from her proposal. 207 pages, Lost Coast Press, 2000. B183P . . . . .Was $19.95/Introductory Price $15.95*
Sister Stories: Daily Inspiration from the Lives of Ruth and Esther By Willy Nywening Ruth and Esther trusted God and lived courageously — even during tough times. Through these meditations, you’ll have the chance to discover that their stories are as meaningful today as they were in ancient Judah and Persia. Their examples of faith and boldness amid trials are encouraging for women today. 85 pages, CRC Publications, 1997. B180P . . . . . . .Was $7.95/Introductory Price $6.50*
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 29 Spring 2001
Back in Print Women, Abuse, and the Bible: How Scripture Can Be Used to Hurt or Heal Edited by Catherine Clark Kroeger and James R. Beck This book traces the link between abuse and a misuse and misunderstanding of the Bible’s teachings on headship and submission. Based on a CBE conference, the book compels Christians to recognize the existence of domestic violence and offers practical and creative pathways to healing. 240 pages, Baker Books, 1996. B090P . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Was $14.99/On Sale $9.99*
New Marriage Conference Videos! The Empowering Marriage: Dealing with Issues of Conflict and Decision-Making, Differences in Gifts and Communication By Jack and Judith Balswick This husband and wife tag-team discusses how to recognize and appreciate different gifts, communication styles and approaches to conflict. Through their model of grace instead of shame, they demonstrate how to empower your spouse. General Session at 2000 Marriage Conference. VCJ500 . . . .Was $15.00/Introductory Price $13.00* How Becoming an Egalitarian Improved Our Married Life By Jim and Leanne Mellado Jim, the President of the Willow Creek Association, and Leanne, his wife, share their poignant and moving story of becoming egalitarians. Discover how they move beyond a relationship of pain to one of freedom and intimacy. General Session at 2000 Marriage Conference. VCJ502 . . . .Was $15.00/Introductory Price $13.00*
Beyond Sexual Stereotypes: How Biblical Equality Leads to Greater Intimacy in Marriage By Ruth Haley Barton Stereotypes often oversimplify the complexity of human experience and prevent us from bringing our truest selves to our relationships. Ruth Haley Barton explores the ways in which biblical equality moves us beyond stereotypes to a fuller expression of individuality and sexuality within marriage. General Session at 2000 Marriage Conference. VCJ504 . . . .Was $15.00/Introductory Price $13.00* Gift-Based Roles in Marriage By Greg Boyd Greg Boyd examines how each spouse’s gifts can contribute to a relationship. He also offers fresh insight into what the Ephesians 5 passage on husbands and wives has to say about the marriage relationship. General Session at 2000 Marriage Conference. VCJ505 . . . .Was $15.00/Introductory Price $13.00* Marriage Conference Video Set Purchase the four marriage conference videos and save! This set is perfect for your own marriage or to share with your friends, family or church. The set includes The Empowering Marriage, How Becoming an Egalitarian Improved Our Married Life, Beyond Sexual Stereotypes, and Gift-Based Roles in Marriage. Watch them again and again! VCJ517 . . .$60.00 Value/Introductory Price $45.00* *Sale prices do not include shipping and handling. Member discount does not apply. Sale ends May 31, 2001.
To order, visit our Web site at www.cbeinternational.org. You may also place your order toll free in the U.S. at (877) 285-2256, by phone at (612) 872-6898 or by fax at (612) 872-6891.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 30 Spring 2001
T HE GOSPEL FOR ALL PEOPLE By Mimi Haddad, Executive Director of CBE
Have you ever hosted a party, invited people who didn’t know each other, held your breath and prayed that camaraderie will quickly develop? CBE events are often like that, yet I continue to marvel at how easily friendships build.
(“There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus”) were some of the Bible-glue that held them together.
Mimi Haddad Executive Director
On one occasion I seriously questioned whether it would happen. As CBE members began arriving for a first CBE committee meeting, I greeted them in the parking lot. I quickly noticed that two leaders displayed bumper stickers with the name of the candidate they hoped would move into the White House. The trouble was, they were not the same person. I watched these two young leaders shake hands while glaring at each other’s bumper sticker.
A
A few uneasy moments followed until the excitement of planning the first-ever CBE event in their large metropolis grew. In spite of politics, they readily agreed upon the critical truth that God gives gifts to all Christians without regard to gender.
They needed this glue because their inclination was to make personal preferences and cultural customs into moral absolutes. We see these conflicts in passages like Acts 15, where the believers in Jerusalem struggled with whether Gentiles should be circumcised, and in 1 Corinthians 8, where Paul addresses the question of whether Christians should eat food sacrificed to idols. Paul and the other leaders continually brought the early Christians back to the fundamentals.
lthough they disagreed on many issues, the early believers held one thing in common — Christ’s completed work on Calvary.
At CBE we are a diverse group of Christians, with our members representing over 100 different denominations. How on earth do we agree on anything? I am reminded of the early church, which was also certainly a diverse group. They lived with radically different cultures, eating habits, languages and ways of worshipping. With such a long list of differences, how did this group ever find common ground? Although they disagreed on many issues, the early believers held one thing in common — Christ’s completed work on Calvary. Verses like Galatians 3:28
CBE has similar glue: CBE’s Statement of Faith and Core Values, found on page 31. Like the early church, we too disagree on many things, yet we come together as Christians to communicate the truth of Galatians 3:28 that God gives gifts to all Christians, regardless of gender, race or class. We envision a future when believers can use these gifts with the full support of the Christian community. These commitments form the lens through which we choose resources for our book service, invite speakers to conferences and select material for our publications. We ask those who serve the CBE community to agree to our Statement of Faith, and nothing more. That is why we can have over 100 different denominations represented in our membership. Perhaps more importantly, that is how CBE can serve such a diverse group of Christians.
By remaining focused on our mission, we can shake hands and work together planning CBE events, while at the same time disagreeing upon who should live in the White House. Thank you for joining with us in proclaiming that the good news is for all people.
Christians for Biblical Equality Mutuality 31 Spring 2001
Core Values 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.
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 1 Year __ Individual Membership $35 __ Household $50 __ Low Income $20 __ Library Subscription $30 International __ Individual Membership __ Household __ Low Income __ Library Subscription
$44 $59 $29 $39
3 Years $ 95 $140 $ 85 $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.
Name _________________________________________ Address _______________________________________ City __________________________________________ State/Prov __________ ZIP/Postal Code _____________ Phone ________________________________________ E-mail ________________________________________ __ I authorize CBE to charge my credit card for the above contributions. __ MasterCard __ Visa __ Discover __American Express Card Number __________________________________ Expiration Date _____/_____ Authorized Signature _____________________________ Please mail 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 Web site: http://www.cbeinternational.org
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Experience the life-giving nature of CBE books! Check out the new books on pages 27-29 or view a comprehensive list on our Web site at www.cbeinternational.org. The newly designed 2001 catalog will appear in March — with even more titles to choose from. The catalog will also offer something new for members. Keep an eye out for it! “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ — to the glory and praise of God.” Philippians 1:9-11, NIVI