Frequently Asked Questions About Christians for Biblical Equality

What exactly is Christians for Biblical Equality?
CBE is a non-profit Christian organization that promotes a biblical basis for gift-based, rather than gender-based, service for men and women of all races, ages and economic classes. Our theology and membership is largely evangelical, yet we cross all denominational lines, representing more than 80 denominations. We have members in each of the 50 states and many foreign countries.

How long has Christians for Biblical Equality been in existence, and how many members does the organization have?
CBE was incorporated January 1, 1988, in St. Paul, Minnesota. Each year around 2,000 individuals and churches support CBE through membership. Our members come from more than 80 different denominational backgrounds, including a strong Southern Baptist contingent. Located around the United States, Canada and the world, CBE members are highly educated, with approximately 68% having attended graduate school and 20% having received PhDs. Thousands more are on our mailing list because they have indicated interest.

Is CBE just an organization of women?
No! CBE is comprised of individual members, both men and women, who work together to promote biblical equality where they live, work and minister. Our members, authors, speakers, chapter leaders and board of directors include both men and women.

What has been the influence of Christians for Biblical Equality?
CBE’s leadership is sought by prestigious Christian organizations. Most recently, we were asked to oversee the Gender Issues group affiliated with the Lausanne Committee for World Evangelization—perhaps the most well-known evangelical missions organization. Moreover, CBE was asked to lead eight workshops at Urbana03, the largest student missions conference in the world. 

How often does CBE hold conferences?
Since 1989, CBE has held semi-annual conferences. In 1995, CBE hosted its first topical conference—on abuse—and in 1999, CBE began offering yearly conferences, some of which focused specifically on marriage. In 2004, CBE began hosting conferences overseas. Our latest conference, entitled "Seeking Justice and Loving Mercy"  was held August 10-12, 2007 in Denver, Colorado. CBE's next International Symposium, "Sent to Preach the Gospel: Women and Men Using Their Gifts for the Great Commission" will be held July 18-20, 2008 in Toronto, Ontario.

Does CBE have local chapters?
CBE has over 25 local chapters  and study centers across the country and around the world, organized by CBE members who promote biblical equality at a grassroots level.

What aspects of your work have had the greatest acceptance?
The fastest growing branch of CBE’s work is Equality Depot, a resource center offering books, journals and articles. Our materials are written by highly qualified biblical scholars and Christian leaders who explore biblical concerns as well as other gender-and-faith issues. Equality Depot is the largest resource on gender and the Bible in the world. Visit www.equalitydepot.com for more information.

CBE distributes three quarterly publications:

A)  Priscilla Papers: CBE’s scholarly publication, available to CBE members and subscribing institutions. Nearly 200 libraries from around the world subscribe. Priscilla Papers has won four Awards of Excellence from the Evangelical Press Association, and subscriptions to Priscilla Papers are growing faster than any other branch of CBE’s ministry.

B)  Mutuality: CBE’s news magazine that offers practical articles, book reviews, and ministry reports. Mutuality has won two Awards of Excellence from the Evangelical Press Association.

C)  E-Quality: A free online journal offering popular, academic, and practical information on biblical equality. 

Can anyone join CBE?

Anyone or any church that agrees with our statement of faith and who pays the annual membership fee is welcome to join.

Where can I learn more about CBE?

Visit other links on this Web site (www.cbeinternational.org)