In life, there are a lot of "what if" questions. We are constantly asking ourselves, and others, questions- wondering what could have been, or what might be. Sometimes these questions are pointless, but often they can hold significant meaning and potential. I thought it would be a fun opportunity to write a series of articles, each asking a "what if" question. These are questions that I don't neccessarily think I know the answers to, but that I think are worth pondering.
And so here we are at my first question: What if humans are equal?
I guess that might seem like a silly question - of course humans are equal, right? Or at least they are supposed to be! That's what I would say, and what many others would say as well.
Humanity has had it's fair share of struggles grappling with this question, as can be seen throughout history. Are people of different ethnicities and heritages equal? What about people of a different gender? And how about people of different ideologies, sexual orientations and people who hold different belief systems?
It seems to me that the majority of people believe that all humans are equal, and should be treated as such. It's the realization and execution of these beliefs that sometimes go askew. And while there is still so much work to be done in creating an equal environment for people, the idea of what is right seems to exist.
What puzzles me is the idea that so many Christians believe that men and women are not equal, and even that it might be a sin to treat them as such.
I understand that the New Testmanent talks about submission and roles of women and men. I've done a fair bit of research on the topic, and have read dozens of books, articles, blogs and commentaries on the verses and their various interpretations. Honestly, to me the verses can go either way. Theologians are smart and can probably convince me their point of view is right if they try hard enough and if I ignore the opposing arguments well enough.
But what it really comes down to for me is what I see as the heart of God. If God gives a woman talent, passion, purpose and desire to serve Him in a particular role - such as a church pastor - why would He then crush her hopes and desires to serve Him simply because of her gender? That doesn't make sense to me.
These ideas aren't confined to the role of women in the church, but that's where I've decided to start. Because you have to start somewhere, and this particular topic is close to my heart. I have been ministered to and mentored by some amazing women who are pastors, and have seen them impact dozens of lives. I've seen them thrive in their roles, and serve others in amazing ways, giving God the glory through it all.
In this era of inequality, in which we are all trying to create a better environment, I wonder why the church continues to promote what seems to be a less free society. God's plan is so full of freedom; that is what He came to provide. New Testament biblical ideas were all so radical and freeing for people of all nations, races, socioeconomic stasuses and genders. Preventing people from full freedom and service just doesn't line up with the God I've come to know.
So I don't know...what if humans really are equal? What if women can serve in the same capacities as men? What if?
