Do American churches have a male dominated expression of faith? Do Anabaptist churches have a male dominated expression of faith?
What do I mean by this? Let me explain.
In many churches, married women share a vote with their husbands. Some barely allow single women to vote at all. Others make it possible for single women to share their voice, while married women still defer to their husbands.
The issue here, as I understand, has to do with married couples being “one flesh” (Gen. 2:24). However, what happens when a wife disagrees with her husband? Which way does their vote go?
Because of our understanding of submission, respect, and authority, it typically ends up going the husbands way. Only, should it always? Do we have a biblical understanding of submission and respect?
But it’s not only voting where I see male dominance.
Few women share testimonies in church. It often ends up being primarily the men who speak. And while I know this has to do with 1Co. 14:34 where Paul says women should keep silent in church, I’m not sure we’re understanding what Paul was actually saying.
For instance, a few chapters earlier, he said women should cover their heads when praying and prophesying (1Co. 11:5). If women are to be silent, why had he previously mentioned their need for a head covering when prophesying?
A third way I see male dominance in faith expression is how the church has typically given men more opportunity and place for using their spiritual gifts then it has given women. However, we also believe the Gospel is available to all who believe (Ro. 3:21-25), not just men. Furthermore, the Holy Spirit and spiritual gifts are given to the church (all who believe—Eph. 1:13, 4:7-12), not just men.
Yet, unless you cook or sew, or unless the church has a crowd of young women early waiting to be taught the virtues of life, there isn’t much place for women to equip others, do ministry, or build-up the body of Christ.
Men lead worship. Men share devotionals. Men plan discipleship programs. Men are deacons, elders, or pastors even though the gifting of pastor, apostle, teacher, evangelist, or prophet is never designated as a gift only men receive.
This is what I mean when I ask if we have a male dominated expression of faith. Has the Christian faith become primarily dominated by men? What are women to do with their spiritual gifts?
Has the Anabaptist subculture assumed a narrow perspective on gender expressions and personalities? Has it neglected to make space for women to put into practice their faith in active and engaging ministry?
You tell me. Share your thoughtful insights in the comments below.
