“If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it” (1 Cor. 12:26, TNIV).
If you were to pinpoint the most discouraging aspect related to the gender discussion in the churches today, what might that be? For many CBE members the real challenge is an inconsistent interpretation of Scripture that suppresses the gifts God gives women for evangelism and missions. For some, the notion that women are equal to men but under their authority is not only illogical, it begs the question—is there something wrong with women that they need male authority to oversee all of their decisions? Yet, for others, the real challenge comes from a lack of self worth and intimacy in relationships which results when women are told that their opinions and viewpoints, though worthy of consideration, may be vetoed by a man—not because he is more holy, not because he is more intelligent or more gifted than a woman, but simply because he is male. Of course, this makes no sense, really, and cannot be supported with Scripture. Yet, these unbiblical attitudes have damaged women for centuries.
Paul tells us, if one member of the body is hurt, it damages many others. When women are not viewed as God intended—as co-laborers of Christ’s kingdom— it hurts the entire church and tarnishes our witness–our ability to reflect the goodness of God in a broken world. For this reason, CBE hosts conferences in different locations each year to challenge new people to have another look at Scripture! And, it is working! CBE conferences continue to reach new people every year! But, to continue to do this requires the help of friends like you.
Our conference in Toronto is only 3 months away! We have a limited opportunity to send fliers, and purchase ads and radio announcements. We have volunteers in many different places downloading lists of names and addresses for conference mailings. But we need more volunteers and funds to send these mailings. If you can volunteer a few hours each week, do let us know. And, if you can, please consider making a generous gift to our conference fund!
The Holy Spirit is working powerfully, bringing Christians back to Scripture to have another look. Will you be part of the Spirit’s renewal in bringing a more consistent reading of Scripture to churches and denominations? As Paul said, when one is honored, we all rejoice! Will you join us?
