Does Scripture exclude women from full participation in all forms of Christian ministry simply on the basis of gender? What insights can the church's “rule of faith,” theology, Scripture, Christian history, and testimonies give women and men exploring this important issue today? In many Christian congregations and college classrooms, debates over the ordination and ministry of women create hurtful and debilitating divisions among believers. This new book by Shannon Smythe leans into those inhospitable places by inviting readers into a process of discernment that intends to lead them, and women especially, into a fresh awareness of their sacred calling to a ministry of the gospel. In Women in Ministry Smythe presents a carefully curated collection of thoughtful answers to common questions asked by those investigating this topic, inviting them to share in the communal practice of studying scripture together in dialogue with the church's theological traditions and the testimonies of faithful women. Readers are asked to reflect in deeply personal ways upon the truth they have found in their study, which then enables the Spirit to direct (or redirect) them forward in the ways of God.
