Biblical womanhood--the belief that God designed women to be submissive wives, virtuous mothers, and joyful homemakers--pervades North American Christianity. From choices about careers to roles in local churches to relationship dynamics, this belief shapes the everyday lives of evangelical women. Yet biblical womanhood isn't biblical, says Baylor University historian Beth Allison Barr. It arose from a series of clearly definable historical moments. This book moves the conversation about biblical womanhood beyond Greek grammar and into the realm of church history--ancient, medieval, and modern--to show that this belief is not divinely ordained but a product of human civilization that continues to creep into the church. Barr's historical insights provide context for contemporary teachings about women's roles in the church and help move the conversation forward. Interweaving her story as a Baptist pastor's wife, Barr sheds light on the #ChurchToo movement and abuse scandals in Southern Baptist circles and the broader evangelical world, helping readers understand why biblical womanhood is more about human power structures than the message of Christ. --
Record details
ISBN:9781493429639
ISBN:1587435349
ISBN:9781587435348
ISBN:1587434709
ISBN:9781587434709
Physical Description:x, 245 pages ; 22 cm print
Publisher:Grand Rapids, Michigan :Brazos Press, a division of Baker Publishing Group,[2021]
Includes bibliographical references (pages 219-244).
Formatted Contents Note:
The beginning of patriarchy -- What if biblical womanhood doesn't come from Paul? -- Our selective medieval memory -- The cost of the reformation for evangelical women -- Writing women out of the english bible -- Sanctifying subordination -- Making biblical womanhood gospel truth -- Isn't it time to set women free?
Book
