#ThingsChristianWomenHear
In recent days, a tweetstorm erupted over the hashtag
#ThingsChristianWomenHear. Since I’ve done some related research, thought I
would respond with some thoughts. When the women tweeted the negative comments that had been directed at them,
it brought a flood of memories. I’ve heard many of them myself.
At my age (late 50’s), some of the strongest statements I
have heard erupted from men reacting to my “femaleness” in a male-dominated
environment (church leadership/staff). However, the criticisms and negative
remarks, while hurtful, are normal for any church staff member—not just the
women. Hurtful people will find the weak spot to attack. Male pastors and staff members get hit
too—in whatever real or perceived weakness people can find. Some criticisms need
reaction or discussion and others need to be overlooked.
My research on a dozen women staff members who serve in
Southern Baptist Churches where there are no female pastors or elders did not
uncover a bunch of angry women. I found women who loved, served, taught,
organized, and persevered to serve in their churches. Sure, they had challenges
and some were unique to their gender. But I couldn’t have found a more positive
and determined group if I had tried. And, I didn’t hand-pick them, it was a
random selection.
Is there a solution to the negativity and pushback that women trying to serve as leaders of ministries in SBC churches? Probably. Some statements were not made with love or consideration of the feelings of others, or even
the overall health of the church. But in the church where I work, I know these
men. They are my brothers in Christ and I do whatever I can to keep a strong
relationship that is positive. I don’t have time to dwell on the negative. The
task we are working on together is too important to spend time arguing.
I am a complementarian. If you don’t know that word, you
aren’t alone. Complementarianism defines women as equally spiritually gifted as
men but they do not hold the same roles as men in the church. This is the
position of the Baptist Faith & Message, 2000 and my denomination's
statement of faith—the Southern Baptist Convention.
I just completed my dissertation on Challenges Facing Women
Serving as Church Staff in SBC churches. Now that the research is done I know
that my experiences are similar to others that I interviewed—all women serving
in churches where there are no women deacons, elders, or pastors. Some see this
position as patriarchal or archaic. I don’t. I see it as a biblical position.
More later . . .
