Does Christianity “Squash” Women? My Favorite Reviewer Says No

My wife, Mary Mohler, reviews an important new book, Does Christianity Squash Women?, in the current edition of Reformation21. The book’s author is Rebecca Jones, and her argument is both sound and sadly controversial.

All too many postmoderns accuse Christianity of being oppressively patriarchal and of treating women like second-class citizens. The biblical vision of complementarity between the genders is rejected in favor of egalitarianism — which is much more acceptable in our modern culture. Rebecca Jones sets the record straight, and Mary offers a fine and insightful review of her book.

Here, Mary offers her own analysis in a single splendid paragraph:

Yes, the gender issue matters. Yes, it goes beyond being a peripheral issue because it is anchored to the primary issue of Biblical authority. How heartening it is that as evangelicals, we can join ranks in this pivotal debate and let the chips fall where they may! The more our families are seen as happy and holy places where submission and sacrificial love actually work; the more our churches reflect the amazing phenomenon of men and women joyfully working together based on God’s design; the more the world will wonder. However, we realize that the beautiful picture of Christ and His church in our homes and our churches will draw men and women to Himself.

Wow. Well said and well worth saying. Be sure to read the review and the book. I have a favorite new literary critic.

FROM THE OTHER SIDE:  This reviewer didn’t like the book at all, but offers some interesting background and excerpts from Rebecca Jones’ lecture at Bryn Mawr College.