Last weekend I listened to Greg Koukl’s radio show, Stand to Reason (KBRT-AM 740, 2-5 p.m.). This is a quality show that encourages all Christians to think clearly about their faith. I highly recommend it (get more information at str.org). Greg had as his guest Mary Jo Sharp (confidentchristianity.com), a woman who has become a successful Christian apologist for her faith. I made a list of women I knew who were involved in defending the faith—Nancy Pearcey, Gretchen Passantino Coburn, Amy Orr-Ewing, and Mary Jo Sharp. That’s a pretty small list when compared to men who are doing the same thing. Why is the proportion of women so small? Here are some possible answers. Do these make sense? Any other ideas?
First, there may be a difference in how men and women are wired. Men may care more about abstract issues while women may be more interested in the practical aspects of life involving family, friends, and the society around them. Men seem to be more aggressive, enjoying argumentation’s give-and-take.
Secondly, women have been heavily involved with other things. They raise children, hold jobs, get connected with various church ministries, create comfortable home environments, etc. I get tired just thinking of what my wife and my daughters-in-law do during a typical day.
Finally, churches may unintentionally send a message that this area isn’t for women. For example, many women’s ministries focus on traditional female events like teas while high school and college groups may stick with males doing all the teaching. Lots of churches have been uncomfortable with the idea of women teaching men.
Liz and Chris – San Diego Wedding Films
2 months ago
i definitely think all three of your answers are very plausible. personally, i can relate the most with the third. i've noticed that the few times i've ever heard a woman speak in front of the church, the topic generally has to do with some sort of "female" issue, such as relationships, family, or the warm fuzzy side of Jesus. i can't recall ever hearing a woman speak on apologetics. additionally, women are generally placed into positions where they only minister to other women or to children (except for the occasional female worship leader).
ReplyDeleteone thing i've always wondered is why most Christians are threatened by the idea of women teaching men (or, heaven forbid, LEADING men). if you are speaking the truth and helping others to understand their faith, what difference does gender make?
Thanks for the comment, Bekah. I was so glad to hear there are women strong enough to go out and present evidence in the form of debates or single presentations. That's healthy for all.
ReplyDeleteI was wanting to find some successful Christian women to read about. Now I have a few. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI also agree with Rebekah, "If you are speaking the truth and helping others to understand their faith, what difference does gender make?"
Christie:
ReplyDeleteI have a list of 100 top apologists that I will post in a later blog in case you'd like to read some of them.