1 Peter 3:1, Part 2
Egalitarian vs. Complementarian
 
The question of whether God created male and female equal in all respects or whether He created male and female equal in value but with different, complementary roles is a controversial topic, even within the church. Pastor Dave is taking the bull by the horns and devoting two weeks to explaining each view and why Calvary’s elders hold to the complementarian position. I suspect that pastors and church leaders are tempted at times to remain ambiguous or silent on controversial subjects, striving above all to keep people placated and in the seats. Thank God for church leadership that is willing to state clearly where we as a church stand and why.
 
Pastor Dave began by laying out four principles he said we must agree on before we can compare the two views and make a judgement between them.

• God Himself is the only source of all authority.
• The Scriptures represent God’s authority in written form.
• We must commit to exegesis over eisegesis.
• Human beings, with Satan’s temptation and provocation, resist and hate God’s authority in their sinful condition, apart from Jesus Christ.

Before the Lord, ask: Do I understand these principles and their implications? Do I fully believe them? If my answer is yes, is my belief a “head only” or “Sunday only” belief, or does the way I live provide evidence that I believe these principles?
 
As Pastor Dave noted, proponents of the egalitarian view cite Scripture to support their position. He spent considerable time quoting and discussing their proof texts, explaining examples of verses taken out of context or interpreted to fit a predetermined agenda. I wondered, do I ever do that when I read or study the Bible? How important it is to pray before opening the book! Lord, I acknowledge that the Bible is Your word, and I submit to its authority. Help me set aside my preconceived ideas concerning what I am about to read. Holy Spirit, teach me and guide me in truth.

In Christ,
Carol Gilbert

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