This document summarizes a study on the roles of Phoebe and Prisca in the Epistle to Romans in the context of the Methodist Church Nigeria. It discusses how Phoebe is referred to as a "deacon" and Prisca is mentioned teaching theology to Apollo and Aquila, showing that women could teach men in the early church. It also examines references to women in the New Testament and their involvement in ministry, finding that Jesus treated women with respect and they played important roles in his earthly ministry and the apostolic church.
Jesus treated women with remarkable equality for his time, welcoming them as disciples and traveling companions despite norms against public interaction between men and unrelated women. He challenged patriarchal assumptions by praising Mary's study of God over Martha's domestic duties and showing that women could be teachers of the faith. The resurrection accounts are considered historically credible because they include women as the first witnesses, even though women's testimony was not legally valid at the time - indicating the texts were not fabricated to promote a patriarchal agenda.
Mary Magdalene played a significant role in the development of Christianity by supporting Jesus during his ministry, being the first witness to his resurrection, and spreading the news of his resurrection. She had a major impact by causing divisions in the church over interpretations of her role, inspiring feminist theology that critiques patriarchal views of women's roles, and serving as a role model for women's leadership and repentance. Her story has led to renewed study of early Christian texts and sparked ongoing debates around power structures in the church.
This document discusses the concept of the "Age of the Holy Spirit" as a new civilization that surpasses patriarchal models. It argues that in this age, women will rise from conditions of injustice imposed by patriarchal systems. Specifically:
1) Patriarchal systems have historically excluded and demeaned women based on interpreting them as intrinsically sinful due to Eve tempting Adam.
2) However, the New Testament establishes equality between men and women in the Church. Still, Orthodox practices show discrimination against women that reflects patriarchal views rather than Christ's message.
3) For the Law of Christ to be fully realized in the Age of the Holy Spirit, love for women must be restored by
The special jewish perspective of matthew. the first nativity. part ii. chapt...Joseph Rhodes
An examination of the main historical and exegetical questions connected with the Matthew 1:18-23 pericope. A special emphasis is made on the geneaology of Christ and the validity of St. Matthew's citation of the prophecy of Isaiah 7:14.
Jewish-Christian relations and the LUNAR CALENDAR
#LUNAR-CALENDAR #Moon #Jewish #Christian
https://bittube.tv/post/5bd46642-6843-4810-ae42-f2263980e9f2
https://odysee.com/@periodic-reset-of-civilizations:c/Jewish-Christian-relations-and-the-LUNAR-CALENDAR:e
https://tube.midov.pl/w/oNkCi4eXe32eYVzJmzj4JY
https://www.bitchute.com/video/ccDldhP5EyCk/
All the platforms I Am on:
https://steemit.com/links/@resetciviliz/link-s
▶ BITCOIN
34c3XCeSyoi9DPRks867KL7GVD7tGVcxnH
▶ ETHEREUM
0xAc1FBaEBaCc83D332494B55123F5493a113cE457
▶ TEESPRING
https://periodic-reset.creator-spring.com
This is a study of Jesus being followed by Matthias. He was with the Apostles from the beginning of the public ministry of Jesus, and that qualified him to be one of the chosen twelve.
The virgin and the priest The making of the Messiah by Mark GibbsFeliksch
The document provides an overview and preface to the book "The Virgin and The Priest: The Making of The Messiah" by Mark Gibbs. It discusses how the book aims to provide context for Jesus' life by identifying his biological parents, using logic and references from historical texts rather than relying on theological claims of divinity. The preface notes how knowledge of Jesus' father was suppressed but was key to an influential subversive tradition depicted in Renaissance art. It aims to shed light on a neglected area of study regarding John the Baptist and his role in Jesus' life.
Jesus treated women with remarkable equality for his time, welcoming them as disciples and traveling companions despite norms against public interaction between men and unrelated women. He challenged patriarchal assumptions by praising Mary's study of God over Martha's domestic duties and showing that women could be teachers of the faith. The resurrection accounts are considered historically credible because they include women as the first witnesses, even though women's testimony was not legally valid at the time - indicating the texts were not fabricated to promote a patriarchal agenda.
Mary Magdalene played a significant role in the development of Christianity by supporting Jesus during his ministry, being the first witness to his resurrection, and spreading the news of his resurrection. She had a major impact by causing divisions in the church over interpretations of her role, inspiring feminist theology that critiques patriarchal views of women's roles, and serving as a role model for women's leadership and repentance. Her story has led to renewed study of early Christian texts and sparked ongoing debates around power structures in the church.
This document discusses the concept of the "Age of the Holy Spirit" as a new civilization that surpasses patriarchal models. It argues that in this age, women will rise from conditions of injustice imposed by patriarchal systems. Specifically:
1) Patriarchal systems have historically excluded and demeaned women based on interpreting them as intrinsically sinful due to Eve tempting Adam.
2) However, the New Testament establishes equality between men and women in the Church. Still, Orthodox practices show discrimination against women that reflects patriarchal views rather than Christ's message.
3) For the Law of Christ to be fully realized in the Age of the Holy Spirit, love for women must be restored by
The special jewish perspective of matthew. the first nativity. part ii. chapt...Joseph Rhodes
An examination of the main historical and exegetical questions connected with the Matthew 1:18-23 pericope. A special emphasis is made on the geneaology of Christ and the validity of St. Matthew's citation of the prophecy of Isaiah 7:14.
Jewish-Christian relations and the LUNAR CALENDAR
#LUNAR-CALENDAR #Moon #Jewish #Christian
https://bittube.tv/post/5bd46642-6843-4810-ae42-f2263980e9f2
https://odysee.com/@periodic-reset-of-civilizations:c/Jewish-Christian-relations-and-the-LUNAR-CALENDAR:e
https://tube.midov.pl/w/oNkCi4eXe32eYVzJmzj4JY
https://www.bitchute.com/video/ccDldhP5EyCk/
All the platforms I Am on:
https://steemit.com/links/@resetciviliz/link-s
▶ BITCOIN
34c3XCeSyoi9DPRks867KL7GVD7tGVcxnH
▶ ETHEREUM
0xAc1FBaEBaCc83D332494B55123F5493a113cE457
▶ TEESPRING
https://periodic-reset.creator-spring.com
This is a study of Jesus being followed by Matthias. He was with the Apostles from the beginning of the public ministry of Jesus, and that qualified him to be one of the chosen twelve.
The virgin and the priest The making of the Messiah by Mark GibbsFeliksch
The document provides an overview and preface to the book "The Virgin and The Priest: The Making of The Messiah" by Mark Gibbs. It discusses how the book aims to provide context for Jesus' life by identifying his biological parents, using logic and references from historical texts rather than relying on theological claims of divinity. The preface notes how knowledge of Jesus' father was suppressed but was key to an influential subversive tradition depicted in Renaissance art. It aims to shed light on a neglected area of study regarding John the Baptist and his role in Jesus' life.
Brazil's Charismatic Catholic and Pentecostal populationmila veilleux
This document provides an overview of the history and growth of Pentecostalism and Catholic Charismatic Renewal in Brazil from the early 20th century to present day. It discusses how Catholicism was initially the only officially recognized religion but many also practiced folk religions like Umbanda. Pentecostalism first arrived in Brazil in 1910 and grew rapidly, challenging the Catholic monopoly on religion. A Catholic Charismatic Renewal also emerged in the mid-20th century. By 2010, the percentage of Catholics dropped significantly while Protestants, including Pentecostals and Charismatics, increased substantially.
"History of Ministry" Lesson Plans: Katrina MartinezUTEP
1. The document discusses the history of ministry in the church from the New Testament era to the present.
2. It notes that early church thinkers believed ministries had to be identified in the New Testament to be authentic, but studies show it is difficult to describe ministries in the NT era clearly.
3. The document asserts that ministry formation is guided by the Spirit's creativity and the church's response, not limited just to ordained roles, and the structure of ministry has continued evolving over time in response to needs.
10 Quotes from Pope Francis on Leadership, Politics, and ReligionImage Books
Ten inspirational, motivating, and challenging quotes from Pope Francis on the subjects of leadership, politics and power, and religion. Read what the leader of the largest religious organization in the world, the most talked about person on the Internet and TIME magazine's person of the year has to say in his own words.
The document discusses the work of Vilmos Flusser and his analysis of the gospels, arguing that Jesus should be understood within the context of first century Judaism and as a Pharisee who sought to renew that movement. Flusser also notes that passages hostile to Judaism in the gospels cannot be translated back to Hebrew or Aramaic, suggesting they were additions from Gentile Christians. The presentation provides historical context about Jewish sects, teachings, and practices during the time of Jesus to analyze how he fit within and related to contemporary Judaism.
This document discusses the historical and religious context surrounding Jesus and early Christianity based on the writings of Professor David Flusser. It summarizes Flusser's view that Jesus should be understood as operating within first-century Judaism and specifically as a Pharisee calling for renewal of that movement. The document examines Flusser's analysis of the Hebrew origins of the gospels and Jesus' teachings reflecting Pharisaic concepts.
This is a study of Jesus being the veil remover. The people of God in the Old Testament were blind to the truth because it was veiled, and Jesus took that veil away so people in the New Testament can see the truth in Jesus.
This document discusses studies on Passionist history and spirituality. It lists 14 topics related to St. Paul of the Cross and the spirituality of the Passionist order. These include guides to Passionist life written by St. Paul of the Cross, the presence of the Passion of Jesus in the Passionist congregation's structure and apostolate, reflections on characteristics of Passionist spirituality like prayer, community, penance, poverty and solitude. The document emphasizes that a commitment to justice, peace and integrity of creation is fundamentally Christian and an important part of the Passionist charism.
The document discusses the nature of the Church as a mystery. It says that the Church derives its mystery from its Trinitarian origin and manifests the Trinity through its nature and mission. The Church is a mystery because its nature can never be fully understood through human reason alone, as it is a reality that is always greater than what we can comprehend. The Church holds together apparent 'opposites' like being both divine and human, visible and invisible. Through history we can see God's hidden hand in preserving the Church despite difficulties and persecutions.
This document provides an overview of the spread of early Christianity from Jesus' life and teachings to the establishment of Christianity as the official religion of the Roman Empire under Emperor Constantine. It discusses Jesus' ministry, the missionary travels and writings of St. Paul that helped spread Christianity to Gentiles, the development of Christian communities and leadership structures in the following centuries, periods of Roman persecution of Christians, and the significance of Constantine's legalization of Christianity in 313 CE.
The Gospel of Luke was likely written between AD 58-65 by Luke, a physician and companion of Paul. It was addressed to Theophilus, possibly a Roman dignitary, and aimed to provide an orderly account of Jesus' life and ministry. Luke emphasizes Jesus' compassion for gentiles and outcasts. The tradition is that Luke was the only gentile author of Scripture.
Challenges and Controversies in Christian HistoryMark Pavlin
This slide deck study on selected topics in Christian history is one of a series to help leaders of a Bible study or Sunday School class who are too busy to research and prepare as well as they would like for the task. The entire series is engaging, colorful and challenging and is ready to go even at the last moment. More are in the works. Search using keyword "lessonstogo",
This short book (long article?) looks at Missions in Samaria from the post-exilic period to the modern era. The author believes that the case study of the challenges, successes, and failures of interaction with Samaritans, provides insight into Christian missions with others--- especially those who may be our neighbors but are sadly ignored or (even more sadly) disliked by Christians.
This document discusses the infiltration of dangerous spiritual errors into the Seventh-day Adventist church. It begins by discussing Revelation 16:13-14 and the three unclean spirits that go out to deceive the world - the spirit of the dragon (Satan and spiritualism), the beast (Roman Catholicism), and the false prophet (apostate Protestantism). It then discusses how Catholic mysticism and New Age spiritualism have been covertly and sometimes openly brought into the SDA church through certain leaders. It provides examples of leaders getting their ideas from Catholic and New Age sources. It warns that these are attacks from the threefold union and signs of Christ's soon return. The document urges caution with anything coming from Jesuit
This is a collection of writings dealing with Simon the sorcerer seeking to buy the power of the Holy Spirit. One issue dealt with is that of his salvation.
Chap. I. The Conversion of the Religiously-reared
Andrew and John 9
Chap, II. The Conversion of a Ricli Tax Gatherer —
Zaccheus 24
CiiAP. III. The Conversion of an Afflicted Beggar —
Bartimeus 40
Chap. IV. The Conversion of a Timid and Lonely-
Invalid — the Woman with the Issue of
Blood 56
No issue before the human mind to-day is
fraught with greater importance than a correct
apprehension of the significance of Jesus. He
has always compelled the reverent attention of
reflective and serious people. Their response
to His supreme religious genius demonstrates
how deeply it has absorbed the variant multi-
tudes who have expressed their consciousness
of Him in speech, in literature, in art, in archi-
tecture, and chiefly in their efforts to emulate
His example and to do His will.
The islamic view of women and the family by by muhammad abdul raufdocsforu
This document provides an introduction to an upcoming book about the Islamic view of women and the family. It begins with background on the author and their motivation for writing the book. The author felt there was a need to explain Islam's perspective on issues of women's rights, marriage, and family as most available information focused on other religions. The introduction provides context on some of the social changes in recent decades that have impacted these topics. It also gives a brief overview of some key aspects of Islam to provide background for the views that will be discussed in the upcoming book, which are based on teachings found in the Quran and hadith.
Saul was born into a devout Jewish family in Tarsus and grew up with a deep reverence for the Law. He was a member of the tribe of Benjamin and studied as a student of the prominent teacher Gamaliel in Jerusalem. One notable occasion was the meeting of Saul, now a persecutor of Christians, and the Christian martyr Stephen during Stephen's trial. Saul took part in Stephen's stoning and felt satisfaction but also doubt, showing the beginning of an internal conflict within him.
The document is an Apostolic Letter from Pope John Paul II on the Rosary. It discusses the history and importance of the Rosary as an effective prayer. The Rosary leads Christians to contemplate the mysteries of Christ's life and receive graces through the intercession of Mary. It is recommended as a path for spiritual growth, contemplation, and forming communities to evangelize. When prayed with meditation on Christ's life, the Rosary draws one closer to God.
Christianity had a profound positive impact on human value, science, education, and hospitals according to the document. It established the belief that all human life has dignity and value because humans are created in God's image. The early Christians rejected practices like gladiatorial games and suicide. Jesus also elevated the status of women, interacting with them publicly and having them as disciples, in contrast to prevailing social norms. Christianity promoted rational investigation of the natural world and the scientific method. It established the first public school systems and universities, originally focused on theology but later expanding to other fields. The church also mandated the establishment of hospitals in cities to care for the sick, a novel institution at the time.
This document summarizes a Sunday school lesson about women who helped Jesus in his ministry. It discusses how Jesus valued women at a time when they faced much discrimination, highlighting several women mentioned in the Gospel of Luke who were healed or followed Jesus. It also notes that according to Luke, some wealthy women financially supported Jesus and the Twelve out of their own means. The document emphasizes that women have always played an important role in furthering God's kingdom.
Brazil's Charismatic Catholic and Pentecostal populationmila veilleux
This document provides an overview of the history and growth of Pentecostalism and Catholic Charismatic Renewal in Brazil from the early 20th century to present day. It discusses how Catholicism was initially the only officially recognized religion but many also practiced folk religions like Umbanda. Pentecostalism first arrived in Brazil in 1910 and grew rapidly, challenging the Catholic monopoly on religion. A Catholic Charismatic Renewal also emerged in the mid-20th century. By 2010, the percentage of Catholics dropped significantly while Protestants, including Pentecostals and Charismatics, increased substantially.
"History of Ministry" Lesson Plans: Katrina MartinezUTEP
1. The document discusses the history of ministry in the church from the New Testament era to the present.
2. It notes that early church thinkers believed ministries had to be identified in the New Testament to be authentic, but studies show it is difficult to describe ministries in the NT era clearly.
3. The document asserts that ministry formation is guided by the Spirit's creativity and the church's response, not limited just to ordained roles, and the structure of ministry has continued evolving over time in response to needs.
10 Quotes from Pope Francis on Leadership, Politics, and ReligionImage Books
Ten inspirational, motivating, and challenging quotes from Pope Francis on the subjects of leadership, politics and power, and religion. Read what the leader of the largest religious organization in the world, the most talked about person on the Internet and TIME magazine's person of the year has to say in his own words.
The document discusses the work of Vilmos Flusser and his analysis of the gospels, arguing that Jesus should be understood within the context of first century Judaism and as a Pharisee who sought to renew that movement. Flusser also notes that passages hostile to Judaism in the gospels cannot be translated back to Hebrew or Aramaic, suggesting they were additions from Gentile Christians. The presentation provides historical context about Jewish sects, teachings, and practices during the time of Jesus to analyze how he fit within and related to contemporary Judaism.
This document discusses the historical and religious context surrounding Jesus and early Christianity based on the writings of Professor David Flusser. It summarizes Flusser's view that Jesus should be understood as operating within first-century Judaism and specifically as a Pharisee calling for renewal of that movement. The document examines Flusser's analysis of the Hebrew origins of the gospels and Jesus' teachings reflecting Pharisaic concepts.
This is a study of Jesus being the veil remover. The people of God in the Old Testament were blind to the truth because it was veiled, and Jesus took that veil away so people in the New Testament can see the truth in Jesus.
This document discusses studies on Passionist history and spirituality. It lists 14 topics related to St. Paul of the Cross and the spirituality of the Passionist order. These include guides to Passionist life written by St. Paul of the Cross, the presence of the Passion of Jesus in the Passionist congregation's structure and apostolate, reflections on characteristics of Passionist spirituality like prayer, community, penance, poverty and solitude. The document emphasizes that a commitment to justice, peace and integrity of creation is fundamentally Christian and an important part of the Passionist charism.
The document discusses the nature of the Church as a mystery. It says that the Church derives its mystery from its Trinitarian origin and manifests the Trinity through its nature and mission. The Church is a mystery because its nature can never be fully understood through human reason alone, as it is a reality that is always greater than what we can comprehend. The Church holds together apparent 'opposites' like being both divine and human, visible and invisible. Through history we can see God's hidden hand in preserving the Church despite difficulties and persecutions.
This document provides an overview of the spread of early Christianity from Jesus' life and teachings to the establishment of Christianity as the official religion of the Roman Empire under Emperor Constantine. It discusses Jesus' ministry, the missionary travels and writings of St. Paul that helped spread Christianity to Gentiles, the development of Christian communities and leadership structures in the following centuries, periods of Roman persecution of Christians, and the significance of Constantine's legalization of Christianity in 313 CE.
The Gospel of Luke was likely written between AD 58-65 by Luke, a physician and companion of Paul. It was addressed to Theophilus, possibly a Roman dignitary, and aimed to provide an orderly account of Jesus' life and ministry. Luke emphasizes Jesus' compassion for gentiles and outcasts. The tradition is that Luke was the only gentile author of Scripture.
Challenges and Controversies in Christian HistoryMark Pavlin
This slide deck study on selected topics in Christian history is one of a series to help leaders of a Bible study or Sunday School class who are too busy to research and prepare as well as they would like for the task. The entire series is engaging, colorful and challenging and is ready to go even at the last moment. More are in the works. Search using keyword "lessonstogo",
This short book (long article?) looks at Missions in Samaria from the post-exilic period to the modern era. The author believes that the case study of the challenges, successes, and failures of interaction with Samaritans, provides insight into Christian missions with others--- especially those who may be our neighbors but are sadly ignored or (even more sadly) disliked by Christians.
This document discusses the infiltration of dangerous spiritual errors into the Seventh-day Adventist church. It begins by discussing Revelation 16:13-14 and the three unclean spirits that go out to deceive the world - the spirit of the dragon (Satan and spiritualism), the beast (Roman Catholicism), and the false prophet (apostate Protestantism). It then discusses how Catholic mysticism and New Age spiritualism have been covertly and sometimes openly brought into the SDA church through certain leaders. It provides examples of leaders getting their ideas from Catholic and New Age sources. It warns that these are attacks from the threefold union and signs of Christ's soon return. The document urges caution with anything coming from Jesuit
This is a collection of writings dealing with Simon the sorcerer seeking to buy the power of the Holy Spirit. One issue dealt with is that of his salvation.
Chap. I. The Conversion of the Religiously-reared
Andrew and John 9
Chap, II. The Conversion of a Ricli Tax Gatherer —
Zaccheus 24
CiiAP. III. The Conversion of an Afflicted Beggar —
Bartimeus 40
Chap. IV. The Conversion of a Timid and Lonely-
Invalid — the Woman with the Issue of
Blood 56
No issue before the human mind to-day is
fraught with greater importance than a correct
apprehension of the significance of Jesus. He
has always compelled the reverent attention of
reflective and serious people. Their response
to His supreme religious genius demonstrates
how deeply it has absorbed the variant multi-
tudes who have expressed their consciousness
of Him in speech, in literature, in art, in archi-
tecture, and chiefly in their efforts to emulate
His example and to do His will.
The islamic view of women and the family by by muhammad abdul raufdocsforu
This document provides an introduction to an upcoming book about the Islamic view of women and the family. It begins with background on the author and their motivation for writing the book. The author felt there was a need to explain Islam's perspective on issues of women's rights, marriage, and family as most available information focused on other religions. The introduction provides context on some of the social changes in recent decades that have impacted these topics. It also gives a brief overview of some key aspects of Islam to provide background for the views that will be discussed in the upcoming book, which are based on teachings found in the Quran and hadith.
Saul was born into a devout Jewish family in Tarsus and grew up with a deep reverence for the Law. He was a member of the tribe of Benjamin and studied as a student of the prominent teacher Gamaliel in Jerusalem. One notable occasion was the meeting of Saul, now a persecutor of Christians, and the Christian martyr Stephen during Stephen's trial. Saul took part in Stephen's stoning and felt satisfaction but also doubt, showing the beginning of an internal conflict within him.
The document is an Apostolic Letter from Pope John Paul II on the Rosary. It discusses the history and importance of the Rosary as an effective prayer. The Rosary leads Christians to contemplate the mysteries of Christ's life and receive graces through the intercession of Mary. It is recommended as a path for spiritual growth, contemplation, and forming communities to evangelize. When prayed with meditation on Christ's life, the Rosary draws one closer to God.
Christianity had a profound positive impact on human value, science, education, and hospitals according to the document. It established the belief that all human life has dignity and value because humans are created in God's image. The early Christians rejected practices like gladiatorial games and suicide. Jesus also elevated the status of women, interacting with them publicly and having them as disciples, in contrast to prevailing social norms. Christianity promoted rational investigation of the natural world and the scientific method. It established the first public school systems and universities, originally focused on theology but later expanding to other fields. The church also mandated the establishment of hospitals in cities to care for the sick, a novel institution at the time.
This document summarizes a Sunday school lesson about women who helped Jesus in his ministry. It discusses how Jesus valued women at a time when they faced much discrimination, highlighting several women mentioned in the Gospel of Luke who were healed or followed Jesus. It also notes that according to Luke, some wealthy women financially supported Jesus and the Twelve out of their own means. The document emphasizes that women have always played an important role in furthering God's kingdom.
Dealing with dilemmas feminism in a patriarchal churchTim Curtis
This document discusses issues around gender roles and feminism within Orthodox Christianity from the perspective of Fr Timothy Curtis. Some key points:
- Orthodox theology holds that both men and women are equally created in God's image based on passages like Genesis and Galatians. However, women cannot be priests as the priesthood models the relationship between God and Jesus which was male.
- Many prominent women in Orthodox history played active spiritual roles equivalent to apostles through missionary work, teaching, writings, and martyrdom, showing leadership was not restricted only to the priesthood.
- Quotes from scholars argue the Orthodox perspective transcends gender through eschatological completeness and monasticism, rather than viewing roles through secular soci
Woman in the Bible (Mary J. Evans)
The Gospel:
Jesus’ Approach to Women
Women in the Passion Narratives
The Attitude of the Disciples
Excursus: Mary the Mother of Jesus
Conclusion
Comments
Construction
This document discusses the important roles that women played in early Christianity based on recent discoveries and scholarship. It outlines how women such as Mary Magdalene were prominent disciples and leaders, contradicting later portrayals. The document also examines evidence from sources such as the New Testament, letters of Paul, and newly discovered texts about women preaching, leading house churches, and their theology emphasizing direct access to God and spiritual equality.
Mary Magdalene was one of Jesus' most prominent disciples. She financially supported his ministry and was present at key moments like the crucifixion and empty tomb. As the first witness of the resurrection, Mary Magdalene is considered the "Apostle to the Apostles." However, she was mistakenly portrayed as a repentant prostitute due to merging of biblical texts. Mary Magdalene actually had an important leadership role and high status as a follower and witness of Jesus.
Jesus was supported financially by womenGLENN PEASE
Jesus and the Twelve were accompanied by certain women who had been healed by Jesus and now supported him financially. These included Mary Magdalene (from whom seven demons had been cast out), Joanna (the wife of Chuza who was the steward of Herod's household), Susanna, and many other women. These women used their own means and resources to provide for Jesus and his disciples.
The Rise and Fall of Women Leaders in Christianity & Adventismniwres
This document discusses the role of women in Christianity from biblical times to the present. It notes that women played prominent leadership roles in Jesus' ministry and the early church as prophets, heads of churches, and teachers. However, it describes how women's roles became suppressed over time as patriarchal systems reasserted dominance. The document provides examples of the first women ordained in different Christian denominations in modern times, showing a gradual increase in women's leadership opportunities over the 19th-20th centuries. It also highlights some of the first Adventist women licensed and ordained as ministers in the late 19th century.
The document discusses different Christian views on the roles of women in ministry. The Orthodox Protestant church believes women should only learn silently and not speak, based on interpretations of the Bible. The Modern Protestant church believes in full equality, allowing women all roles including conducting services. The Catholic church allows women lay roles but believes only men can conduct mass and sacraments, as the priest represents Jesus who had only male disciples. Views differ based on how the Bible is interpreted regarding creation, Paul's letters, and Jesus' relationship with women.
Should the NT Haustafeln Argue for or against the Ordination of Women, or S...Simon Bwambale
Abstract
The question whether to ordain women or not threatens the fabric of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The anti and the pro-ordination argument hinge on scripture, the only source of authority for the Remnant Church. This paper has made a critical observation of the arguments and concludes that neither of the camps is right. It has made a brief excursus into the backdrop that may have influenced the prohibitions and observed that it (the backdrop) may not certify the prohibitions to be eternal interdiction on women participation in ministry. The study realizes that the seeming interdictions are statements aimed at setting the church in orderhaustafeln to defocus believers from their individual self in order to refocus them to their divine calling as colabourers with Paul in Christ. Because the NT seems quiet on the issue whether to, or not to ordain women, and because the texts used for or against seem to be read either at an apparent level, or applied without a keen regard to the contexts, this paper suggests further study of the verses that form the backbone of arguments before any action is taken by the world church.
The document summarizes the egalitarian and complementarian positions on gender roles. The egalitarian position argues that men and women are fully equal based on creation, fall, and redemption. They cite biblical examples of female leadership and involvement. The complementarian position agrees on equality of essence but believes men and women have distinct roles, with male leadership and authority in the home and church restored through redemption. They believe passages like Ephesians and 1 Timothy support distinctive gender roles.
This is a study of Jesus as a respecter of women. He was accepting them on the same level as his male disciples. They ministered with Him and followed Him everywhere supporting His ministry.
The Role Of Women In Proclaiming The Gospelspiritntruth
The document discusses the role of women in proclaiming the gospel. It argues that liberal churches improperly promote women to positions of authority over men, contrary to scripture. However, many conservative groups incorrectly restrict women from learning and spreading the gospel. The document examines examples from the Bible of women actively involved in Jesus' ministry and the early church. It concludes that while men have authority, scripture encourages women to spread the good news and use their gifts without being restricted or put in positions of authority over men.
Jesus had complex relationships with the women in his life that provide insights into his character and values. His mother Mary played a traditional maternal role, though Jesus rejected family ties in favor of spiritual kinship. Women disciples, like Mary Magdalene, displayed greater faith and understanding of Jesus than the male disciples. While Jesus helped the downtrodden, he did not explicitly advocate for women's rights, showing equality was not a top priority. Portrayals of Jesus having romantic relationships are modern attempts to make him more relatable, though medieval women saw themselves as spiritual brides to express devotion to Christ.
This document discusses the roles of men and women in the church. It outlines the seven clerical orders and notes that the priesthood is comprised of deacons, priests, and bishops, which are only open to men. It provides details on the roles of deacons and priests. While women cannot be priests, the document highlights examples of saintly women in the Bible and notes the important prophetic roles women have played in revealing aspects of the church. Overall, it examines the theological reasoning for distinguishing roles while emphasizing that roles do not determine relative value between men and women.
Similar to A study of the roles of phoebe and prisca in the epistle to the romans in the context of the methodist church nigeria (16)
Abnormalities of hormones and inflammatory cytokines in women affected with p...Alexander Decker
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have elevated levels of hormones like luteinizing hormone and testosterone, as well as higher levels of insulin and insulin resistance compared to healthy women. They also have increased levels of inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and leptin. This study found these abnormalities in the hormones and inflammatory cytokines of women with PCOS ages 23-40, indicating that hormone imbalances associated with insulin resistance and elevated inflammatory markers may worsen infertility in women with PCOS.
A usability evaluation framework for b2 c e commerce websitesAlexander Decker
This document presents a framework for evaluating the usability of B2C e-commerce websites. It involves user testing methods like usability testing and interviews to identify usability problems in areas like navigation, design, purchasing processes, and customer service. The framework specifies goals for the evaluation, determines which website aspects to evaluate, and identifies target users. It then describes collecting data through user testing and analyzing the results to identify usability problems and suggest improvements.
A universal model for managing the marketing executives in nigerian banksAlexander Decker
This document discusses a study that aimed to synthesize motivation theories into a universal model for managing marketing executives in Nigerian banks. The study was guided by Maslow and McGregor's theories. A sample of 303 marketing executives was used. The results showed that managers will be most effective at motivating marketing executives if they consider individual needs and create challenging but attainable goals. The emerged model suggests managers should provide job satisfaction by tailoring assignments to abilities and monitoring performance with feedback. This addresses confusion faced by Nigerian bank managers in determining effective motivation strategies.
A unique common fixed point theorems in generalized dAlexander Decker
This document presents definitions and properties related to generalized D*-metric spaces and establishes some common fixed point theorems for contractive type mappings in these spaces. It begins by introducing D*-metric spaces and generalized D*-metric spaces, defines concepts like convergence and Cauchy sequences. It presents lemmas showing the uniqueness of limits in these spaces and the equivalence of different definitions of convergence. The goal of the paper is then stated as obtaining a unique common fixed point theorem for generalized D*-metric spaces.
A trends of salmonella and antibiotic resistanceAlexander Decker
This document provides a review of trends in Salmonella and antibiotic resistance. It begins with an introduction to Salmonella as a facultative anaerobe that causes nontyphoidal salmonellosis. The emergence of antimicrobial-resistant Salmonella is then discussed. The document proceeds to cover the historical perspective and classification of Salmonella, definitions of antimicrobials and antibiotic resistance, and mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in Salmonella including modification or destruction of antimicrobial agents, efflux pumps, modification of antibiotic targets, and decreased membrane permeability. Specific resistance mechanisms are discussed for several classes of antimicrobials.
A transformational generative approach towards understanding al-istifhamAlexander Decker
This document discusses a transformational-generative approach to understanding Al-Istifham, which refers to interrogative sentences in Arabic. It begins with an introduction to the origin and development of Arabic grammar. The paper then explains the theoretical framework of transformational-generative grammar that is used. Basic linguistic concepts and terms related to Arabic grammar are defined. The document analyzes how interrogative sentences in Arabic can be derived and transformed via tools from transformational-generative grammar, categorizing Al-Istifham into linguistic and literary questions.
A time series analysis of the determinants of savings in namibiaAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a study on the determinants of savings in Namibia from 1991 to 2012. It reviews previous literature on savings determinants in developing countries. The study uses time series analysis including unit root tests, cointegration, and error correction models to analyze the relationship between savings and variables like income, inflation, population growth, deposit rates, and financial deepening in Namibia. The results found inflation and income have a positive impact on savings, while population growth negatively impacts savings. Deposit rates and financial deepening were found to have no significant impact. The study reinforces previous work and emphasizes the importance of improving income levels to achieve higher savings rates in Namibia.
A therapy for physical and mental fitness of school childrenAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a study on the importance of exercise in maintaining physical and mental fitness for school children. It discusses how physical and mental fitness are developed through participation in regular physical exercises and cannot be achieved solely through classroom learning. The document outlines different types and components of fitness and argues that developing fitness should be a key objective of education systems. It recommends that schools ensure pupils engage in graded physical activities and exercises to support their overall development.
A theory of efficiency for managing the marketing executives in nigerian banksAlexander Decker
This document summarizes a study examining efficiency in managing marketing executives in Nigerian banks. The study was examined through the lenses of Kaizen theory (continuous improvement) and efficiency theory. A survey of 303 marketing executives from Nigerian banks found that management plays a key role in identifying and implementing efficiency improvements. The document recommends adopting a "3H grand strategy" to improve the heads, hearts, and hands of management and marketing executives by enhancing their knowledge, attitudes, and tools.
This document discusses evaluating the link budget for effective 900MHz GSM communication. It describes the basic parameters needed for a high-level link budget calculation, including transmitter power, antenna gains, path loss, and propagation models. Common propagation models for 900MHz that are described include Okumura model for urban areas and Hata model for urban, suburban, and open areas. Rain attenuation is also incorporated using the updated ITU model to improve communication during rainfall.
A synthetic review of contraceptive supplies in punjabAlexander Decker
This document discusses contraceptive use in Punjab, Pakistan. It begins by providing background on the benefits of family planning and contraceptive use for maternal and child health. It then analyzes contraceptive commodity data from Punjab, finding that use is still low despite efforts to improve access. The document concludes by emphasizing the need for strategies to bridge gaps and meet the unmet need for effective and affordable contraceptive methods and supplies in Punjab in order to improve health outcomes.
A synthesis of taylor’s and fayol’s management approaches for managing market...Alexander Decker
1) The document discusses synthesizing Taylor's scientific management approach and Fayol's process management approach to identify an effective way to manage marketing executives in Nigerian banks.
2) It reviews Taylor's emphasis on efficiency and breaking tasks into small parts, and Fayol's focus on developing general management principles.
3) The study administered a survey to 303 marketing executives in Nigerian banks to test if combining elements of Taylor and Fayol's approaches would help manage their performance through clear roles, accountability, and motivation. Statistical analysis supported combining the two approaches.
A survey paper on sequence pattern mining with incrementalAlexander Decker
This document summarizes four algorithms for sequential pattern mining: GSP, ISM, FreeSpan, and PrefixSpan. GSP is an Apriori-based algorithm that incorporates time constraints. ISM extends SPADE to incrementally update patterns after database changes. FreeSpan uses frequent items to recursively project databases and grow subsequences. PrefixSpan also uses projection but claims to not require candidate generation. It recursively projects databases based on short prefix patterns. The document concludes by stating the goal was to find an efficient scheme for extracting sequential patterns from transactional datasets.
A survey on live virtual machine migrations and its techniquesAlexander Decker
This document summarizes several techniques for live virtual machine migration in cloud computing. It discusses works that have proposed affinity-aware migration models to improve resource utilization, energy efficient migration approaches using storage migration and live VM migration, and a dynamic consolidation technique using migration control to avoid unnecessary migrations. The document also summarizes works that have designed methods to minimize migration downtime and network traffic, proposed a resource reservation framework for efficient migration of multiple VMs, and addressed real-time issues in live migration. Finally, it provides a table summarizing the techniques, tools used, and potential future work or gaps identified for each discussed work.
A survey on data mining and analysis in hadoop and mongo dbAlexander Decker
This document discusses data mining of big data using Hadoop and MongoDB. It provides an overview of Hadoop and MongoDB and their uses in big data analysis. Specifically, it proposes using Hadoop for distributed processing and MongoDB for data storage and input. The document reviews several related works that discuss big data analysis using these tools, as well as their capabilities for scalable data storage and mining. It aims to improve computational time and fault tolerance for big data analysis by mining data stored in Hadoop using MongoDB and MapReduce.
1. The document discusses several challenges for integrating media with cloud computing including media content convergence, scalability and expandability, finding appropriate applications, and reliability.
2. Media content convergence challenges include dealing with the heterogeneity of media types, services, networks, devices, and quality of service requirements as well as integrating technologies used by media providers and consumers.
3. Scalability and expandability challenges involve adapting to the increasing volume of media content and being able to support new media formats and outlets over time.
This document surveys trust architectures that leverage provenance in wireless sensor networks. It begins with background on provenance, which refers to the documented history or derivation of data. Provenance can be used to assess trust by providing metadata about how data was processed. The document then discusses challenges for using provenance to establish trust in wireless sensor networks, which have constraints on energy and computation. Finally, it provides background on trust, which is the subjective probability that a node will behave dependably. Trust architectures need to be lightweight to account for the constraints of wireless sensor networks.
This document discusses private equity investments in Kenya. It provides background on private equity and discusses trends in various regions. The objectives of the study discussed are to establish the extent of private equity adoption in Kenya, identify common forms of private equity utilized, and determine typical exit strategies. Private equity can involve venture capital, leveraged buyouts, or mezzanine financing. Exits allow recycling of capital into new opportunities. The document provides context on private equity globally and in developing markets like Africa to frame the goals of the study.
This document discusses a study that analyzes the financial health of the Indian logistics industry from 2005-2012 using Altman's Z-score model. The study finds that the average Z-score for selected logistics firms was in the healthy to very healthy range during the study period. The average Z-score increased from 2006 to 2010 when the Indian economy was hit by the global recession, indicating the overall performance of the Indian logistics industry was good. The document reviews previous literature on measuring financial performance and distress using ratios and Z-scores, and outlines the objectives and methodology used in the current study.
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Lição 12: João 15 a 17 – O Espírito Santo e a Oração Sacerdotal | 2° Trimestr...OmarBarrezueta1
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Introduction
Mantra Yoga is an exact science. "Mananat trayate iti mantrah- by the Manana (constant thinking or recollection) of which one is protected or is released from the round of births and deaths, is Mantra." That is called Mantra by the meditation (Manana) on which the Jiva or the individual soul attains freedom from sin, enjoyment in heaven and final liberation, and by the aid of which it attains in full the fourfold fruit (Chaturvarga), i.e., Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha. A Mantra is so called because it is achieved by the mental process.
Lucid Dreaming: Understanding the Risks and Benefits
The ability to control one's dreams or for the dreamer to be aware that he or she is dreaming. This process, called lucid dreaming, has some potential risks as well as many fascinating benefits. However, many people are hesitant to try it initially for fear of the potential dangers. This article aims to clarify these concerns by exploring both the risks and benefits of lucid dreaming.
The Benefits of Lucid Dreaming
Lucid dreaming allows a person to take control of their dream world, helping them overcome their fears and eliminate nightmares. This technique is particularly useful for mental health. By taking control of their dreams, individuals can face challenging scenarios in a controlled environment, which can help reduce anxiety and increase self-confidence.
Addressing Common Concerns
Physical Harm in Dreams Lucid dreaming is fundamentally safe. In a lucid dream, everything is a creation of your mind. Therefore, nothing in the dream can physically harm you. Despite the vividness and realness of the dream experience, it remains entirely within your mental landscape, posing no physical danger.
Mental Health Risks Concerns about developing PTSD or other mental illnesses from lucid dreaming are unfounded. As soon as you wake up, it's clear that the events experienced in the dream were not real. On the contrary, lucid dreaming is often seen as a therapeutic tool for conditions like PTSD, as it allows individuals to reframe and manage their thoughts.
Potential Risks of Lucid Dreaming
While generally safe, lucid dreaming does come with a few risks as well:
Mixing Dream Memories with Reality Long-term lucid dreamers might occasionally confuse dream memories with real ones, creating false memories. This issue is rare and preventable by maintaining a dream journal and avoiding lucid dreaming about real-life people or places too frequently.
Escapism Using lucid dreaming to escape reality can be problematic if it interferes with your daily life. While it is sometimes beneficial to escape and relieve the stress of reality, relying on lucid dreaming for happiness can hinder personal growth and productivity.
Feeling Tired After Lucid Dreaming Some people report feeling tired after lucid dreaming. This tiredness is not due to the dreams themselves but often results from not getting enough sleep or using techniques that disrupt sleep patterns. Taking breaks and ensuring adequate sleep can prevent this.
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The pervasiveness of Lying in today's World.pptxniwres
In our interconnected world, lies weave through the fabric of society like hidden threads. We encounter them in politics, media, personal relationships, and even within ourselves. The prevalence of deception raises profound questions about truth, trust, and the human condition.
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This book is one of the best of the translated ones, for it has a warning character for all those who find themselves in the experience of material life. Irmão X provides a shrewd way of describing the subtleties and weaknesses that can jeopardize our intentions, making us more attentive and vigilant by providing us with his wise pages, reminding us between the lines of the Master's words: "Pray and watch."
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The Book of Revelation, filled with symbolic and apocalyptic imagery, presents one of its most striking visions in Revelation 9:3-12—the locust army. Understanding the significance of this locust army provides insight into the broader themes of divine judgment, protection, and the ultimate triumph of God’s will as depicted in Revelation.
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Heartfulness Magazine - June 2024 (Volume 9, Issue 6)heartfulness
Dear readers,
This month we continue with more inspiring talks from the Global Spirituality Mahotsav that was held from March 14 to 17, 2024, at Kanha Shanti Vanam.
We hear from Daaji on lifestyle and yoga in honor of International Day of Yoga, June 21, 2024. We also hear from Professor Bhavani Rao, Dean at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University, on spirituality in action, the Venerable BhikkuSanghasena on how to be an ambassador for compassion, Dr. Tony Nader on the Maharishi Effect, Swami Mukundananda on the crossroads of modernization, Tejinder Kaur Basra on the purpose of work, the Venerable GesheDorjiDamdul on the psychology of peace, the Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland, KC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, on how we are all related, and world-renowned violinist KumareshRajagopalan on the uplifting mysteries of music.
Dr. Prasad Veluthanar shares an Ayurvedic perspective on treating autism, Dr. IchakAdizes helps us navigate disagreements at work, Sravan Banda celebrates World Environment Day by sharing some tips on land restoration, and Sara Bubber tells our children another inspiring story and challenges them with some fun facts and riddles.
Happy reading,
The editors
Lesson 12 - The Blessed Hope: The Mark of the Christian.pptxCelso Napoleon
Lesson 12 - The Blessed Hope: The Mark of the Christian
SBS – Sunday Bible School
Adult Bible Lessons 2nd quarter 2024 CPAD
MAGAZINE: THE CAREER THAT IS PROPOSED TO US: The Path of Salvation, Holiness and Perseverance to Reach Heaven
Commentator: Pastor Osiel Gomes
Presentation: Missionary Celso Napoleon
Renewed in Grace
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Tracking "The Blessing" - Christianity · Spiritual Growth · Success
Do you ever feel like your Bible highlighting isn't quite enough to ignite lasting spiritual growth? Have you struggled to retain key takeaways from your Bible study sessions?
Discover how living in 4D can transform your highlighting into a strategic tool for spiritual development.
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In this video, you'll gain insights on:
How highlighting key verses and themes can enhance memory and retention of Scripture (we see a few key ones, here!)
Studies have shown that highlighting can significantly improve information recall. Highlighting key points visually reinforces them in your mind, leading to better long-term memory.
How to personalize your Bible study through strategic highlighting. Don't just highlight everything!
This video will teach you how to strategically highlight based on what resonates with you, focusing on central themes, recurring ideas, or connections between different passages.
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How connecting highlighted passages can reveal deeper biblical truths. By highlighting these connections, you can see the bigger picture and uncover the underlying messages within Scripture.
By the end of this video, you'll be equipped to unlock the hidden potential within your highlighted Bible and embark on a transformative spiritual growth journey! Don't forget to like and subscribe for more inspiring content on deepening your faith.
Note: For Christians seeking to enrich their Bible study and deepen their faith, as well as any other spiritual seeker of truth and growth.
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Astronism, Cosmism and Cosmodeism: the space religions espousing the doctrine...Cometan
This lecture created by Brandon Taylorian (aka Cometan) specially for the CESNUR Conference held Bordeaux in June 2024 provides a brief introduction to the legacy of religious and philosophical thought that Astronism emerges from, namely the discourse on transcension started assuredly by the Cosmists in Russia in the mid-to-late nineteenth century and then carried on and developed by Mordecai Nessyahu in Cosmodeism in the twentieth century. Cometan also then provides some detail on his story in founding Astronism in the early twenty-first century from 2013 along with details on the central Astronist doctrine of transcension. Finally, the lecture concludes with some contributions made by space religions and space philosophy and their influences on various cultural facets in art, literature and film.
Astronism, Cosmism and Cosmodeism: the space religions espousing the doctrine...
A study of the roles of phoebe and prisca in the epistle to the romans in the context of the methodist church nigeria
1. Research on Humanities and Social Sciences www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1719 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2863 (Online)
Vol.3, No.6, 2013
132
A Study of the Roles of Phoebe and Prisca in the Epistle to the
Romans in the Context of the Methodist Church Nigeria
Vr. Rev. Adetunji, Emmanuel Olujide
Methodist Theological Institute,Sagamu, Ogun State, Nigeria.
E-mail: emmanueladetunji85@yahoo.com Phone: +2348055144192
Abstract
The Priesthood of women in the New Testament in the mainline churches is a controversial issue that calls for
attention. Priesthood should be given without consideration for gender. Since the priest is one who communes
with God and communicates with the flocks. Above all, ordination is a ministry of service, which is purely
pastoral, and administrative, there should be no obstacle on the way of women aspiring to be priest. This is
because in other facets of life women have proven to be efficient and capable administrators and leaders. The
Bible conformed from the beginning; females have taken an active and important part in the promotion of the
gospel. They seem, more than others to have contributed to Christ of their substance. They were His most
faithful attendants, “last at the cross, and first at sepulcher Phoebe was a servant of the church, as succored of
Paul, and of many others.
Keywords: Priesthood, Women, Phoebe, Priscal, Book of Romans, Ministry
Introduction
The problem of an existing gap in gender poverty especially as it affects the women calls for concern in the
society at large and the church in particular. The Bible and African Traditional Religion both agree that the
woman is a creation of God’ created purposely for a specific mission in the plan of God for the world.
And Adam said, this is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh. She shall be called woman, because she was
taken out of man, Gen. 2:23
This verse may have several meaning; “taken out of man” It can equally mean “subject to man’s dominion and
lordship” as the case is in many African societies.
“Bones of my bones, flesh of my flesh” on the other hand can mean that she is part of man, equal with man,
absolutely essential to man. This shows that she was created in the image of God like the man and was never
intended to be inferior.
Jewish tradition and culture, however, gave no prominence to women in both social and religious spheres, in fact,
contempt, discrimination and demeaning references often characterized rabbinic teachings about women’.
Rabbis were not even encouraged to teach (Luke 10:39) or speak to women (John 4:27) Jewish culture is solely
Patriarchal.
Yoruba culture is, to a large extent, similar to Jewish culture in this respect. The Yoruba women’s primary
vocation is motherhood. The superiority of men over women is unquestionable. Women always play
subordinates roles at home, in politics and to some extent in religion. Women were identified with leakage of
secrets; therefore they were banned from the council of men when decisions were being taken and implemented.
Yoruba culture is also patriarchal and women are not seen as equal to men.2
It is noteworthy, however, that right from the onset women has been seen as inferior to men not until 19th
century
that women have been recognized in the society. In most of the culture that women have been the poorest of the
poor.
It is sadden that the church of God that suppose to be a source of total salvation, spiritual, economic and political
are still being relegated women to background.
Thus, as much as one cannot deny the fact that there are still some restrictions on women’s role to equality with
men in the area of politics and religion, there is need to appreciate and acknowledge the fact the things have
changed considerably from what it used to be – a situation in which women were not given any prominence or
any chance in policy making. Time was when women were banned from Councils of men when decisions were
being taken and implemented.
There is an urgent need in our society today for women like Rosa Park (1955) whose act of protest galvanized
America’s civil rights revolution 4
. By her refusal to give up her seat to a white person in the bus, she proved to
the world that blacks are not inferior to the whites. It is not enough for us to debate and discuss women’s rights
and roles, it is high time women rose up to claim and assert their roles.
Above all, Formal Ordination through the laying on of hand is important, but not the sole basis of divine call into
the ministry. The New Testament did not show any record where the early disciples of Jesus Christ were
formally ordained through the laying on of hands 5. They simply responded to the divine invitation of Jesus
2. Research on Humanities and Social Sciences www.iiste.org
ISSN 2222-1719 (Paper) ISSN 2222-2863 (Online)
Vol.3, No.6, 2013
133
Christ to make them fishers of men. Therefore, it is unnecessary for women who are called into the ministry to
wait for a formal before they begin. As they lean on the power of the Holy Spirit and forge ahead, they will be
as successful as the early disciple.
2.2 Women’s Roles in the New Testament
In the New Testament, particularly in the letters of Paul, there are women who in addition to being wives were
involved in itinerant Ministry, using their gifts and talents for the furtherance of the gospel of Christ. They were
not limited to domestic duties alone.
Bonnie Tharston (1994 ) posits that the list of the functional roles assumed by women in Romans 16 is
impressive and includes that of Deacons, Prostrants (Patron), fellow-workers, hard-workers, and apostles
(missionary). Phoebe, Priscilla, Mary, Junia, Ampleatus Tryphosa and Tryhaena and others were women who
helped in the public ministry of Jesus Christ and Paul.
The words and actions of Jesus with respect to women are remarkable. In the Gospels, Mary and Martha were
disciples of Jesus Christ (Luke 10:38-42) in Luke 8:1-3 when Jesus went on his preaching mission, he had the
company not only of the twelve but also women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary,
called Magdalene from whom seven demons had gone out, Joana, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, Susanna,
and many others who provided for them out of their means . ( Drury,1996 )Also, Luke records that the women
had followed him from Galilee (Luke 24:49) He even allowed a sinful woman to approach him in the house of
Simon the Pharisee (Luke 7:3-18).
To the great astonishment of his own disciples Jesus conversed publicly with the Samaritan woman (John 4:27)
and he took no notice of the state of impurity of the woman who had suffered from hemorrhages (Mathew 9:20-
22).
He compassionately pardoned the woman caught in adultery and by this action he shows that one must not be
more severe toward the fault of a woman than toward that of a man (John 8:11).
He departed from Mosaic law and Jewish custom, and affirmed the equality of the right and duties of men and
women with regard to the marriage bond (Mark 10:2-11: Matt 19:3-9) ( Legrand ,2002) maintains that “contrary
to the Jewish Modality, which did not accord value to the testimony of woman, as Jewish law attests; it was
nevertheless woman who were the first to have the privilege to seeing the risen Lord, and it is they who were
charged by Jesus to take the first Pascal message to the Apostles themselves (Mathew 28:7-10, Luke 24:9-10;
John 20:11-18) in order to prepare the latter to become the official witnesses to the resurrection.
From the above, we may conclude that Jesus paid special attention to women and ignored the prejudice of his
time even though women were not included in the group of his apostles. ( Abogunrin,2004 ) noted that “it is true
that no woman was among the Apostles. This is so because it would have ruined his ministry and reputation in
the light of the then culture; an unmarried woman was rare to come by among the Jews unless she was a public
woman. Jesus could not have broken up homes just because he wanted to have a female disciple at all cost. He
granted women privileges beyond what was allowed in Judaism. Also, Jesus would probably have endangered
the lives of his disciples if he had included witnessing to the Gentiles in the commission. No Jew who knew that
they had entered the homes of the Gentiles would allow them to come near their homes. It should be noted that
some of the women who followed Christ during His ministry assumed a prominent role at the time of the
crucifixion and resurrection. At the risk of their lives they followed Christ to the cross and they followed His
body to the burial place. They wanted to show their tender love for him by returning later to embalm His body
with species and ointment (Luke 23:55-56; Mathew 27:59-61; Mark 15:47, 16:17 28). When the women
returned to the tomb after the Sabbath to anoint Christ’s body, they were honoured with the news of the
resurrection. Their loyalty and devotion to Christ were rewarded by their being the first to encounter the risen
saviour (Mathew 28:9, Mark 16:9; John 20:14) and to be commissioned to break the news of the resurrection to
the disciples (Mark 16:7; Mathew 28:7, 10). In the passion narratives the women clearly show a greater loyalty,
courage and faith than the twelve disciples.
The same women who ministered to Jesus during His journey and at His death were also present among the
disciples in the period between the resurrection and Pentecost. Presumably they were also among those upon
whom the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost (Acts 1:12-14, 12-14, 2:22-47) Therefore, one can say that women
shared with men in the witness in the beginning of the gospel proclamation. Women were visible and active not
only in the ministry of Jesus, but also in the life of the apostolic church. Immediately after Christ’s ascension, the
disciples gathered in the upper room together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his
brothers (Acts 1:14). These women were there not to cook for the men, but to pray with them and seek divine
guidance over who should be Judas’ successor. The women who had played a significant role in the ministry of
Christ now continue their service within the life of the community
Similarly, women joined the expanding church in large numbers. Luke notes that “more than ever, believers
were added to the Lord, Multitudes both of men and women” (Acts 5:145). When Philip preached the Gospel in
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Samaria, the result is the same; many were baptized, both men and women (Acts 8:12). There is no doubt that
the apostolic church followed Christ’s example by including women in the ministry of the church. As significant
as the roles of women were in the earthly ministry of Jesus, it must be noted that no woman was included among
the twelve.32
Consequently, women were described as “fellow—workers.” Women distinguished themselves in the apostolic
church not only at the level of local church but also in the wider missionary outreach of the church. Much of the
missionary activities reported in the New Testament focus on Paul and his co-workers many of whom were
women.33
Romans 16 records several women whose missionary endeavours contributed significantly to the life
and growth of the church.
It is noteworthy that both Paul and Luke mention Priscilla almost always before her husband, Aquila presumably
because she was the more prominent in missionary endeavours. In Acts she engaged with her husband Aquila,
in teaching the great Orator Appollos (Acts 18:26) Priscilla, therefore must have been well-grounded in the
Christian faith and a most capable instructor.33
Paul refers to this couple as “fellow-workers”. The term was
often used by Paul to characterize those persons who worked with him.
Another position where women featured is Deaconesses role. There is evidence for the existence of women
deaconesses in the period of the apostolic church. Phoebe was mentioned as a deaconess (δι kοvοv) of
Cenchreae in Romans 16:1-2 Deaconesses were teachers of the Christian doctrine. After the New Testament
times, the deacons (δι kovοι) became clearly identifiable ministers in the church especially in the East.34
They
became necessary because of the more fulsome baptismal anointing of adult women coverts. The candidates for
baptism entered the pool naked. Deaconess (δι kovov) plunged her into the water three times and completed
the anointing with oil applied over the entire body.35
(McCrath,2005 )36
writes that the “deaconesses” (δι kovoi) also performed a host of other duties. The
deaconess instructed the female catechumens, acted as intermediary between baptized women and the bishop,
conducted the necessary physical examination when a virgin was accused of breaking her vows. She guarded
the church door against the entrance of women who were not members of the community and, sitting in a chair
similar to the Bishop’s Cathedral, presided over the women’s section at logical gathering. It was also the task of
the deaconess to prepare the bodies of the faithful for burial. The New Testament and the practice in the
apostolic churches support both the inclusion and the exclusion of women ordination to the pastoral ministry.
To sum it all, in the (Greek) New Testament the radical break in Patriarchal structure provides a new order of
freedom in which women as followers are welcomed by Jesus into a discipleship of equal. They were included
in the earliest congregation and also became local leaders. While at the same time Mark and John placed women
on an equal level with men as witnesses to Christ (John 4:1-42; I Timothy 2:11-13).
We can not speak of the exclusion of women as priest in the Greek Testament because this model of ministry or
leadership does not exist in that period, rather, the royal priesthood applies to all members of the new people,
who live by the mercy of God as signified by baptism in the death of Jesus Christ’s calling to service for both
women and men. In baptism all put on Christ or are joined to His resurrected body as the first fruits of the New
Creation (Gal. 3:27-28).
All receive the same gifts of the one spirit (Corinthians 12:13; Col. 3:9-11) Ordination as the laying on of hands
was not practical in the Pauline church in regard to the role of Presbyter and deacon. In the Palestinian Churches,
ordination was practical in setting aside the presbyter or Elder in a manner similar to Jewish custom
2.3 Reference to Phoebe and Prisca in Romans 16:1-3, Acts and Others
Acts 18:2-28 tells of Apollo’s visit to Ephesus. Apollos is praised for his knowledge of the scriptures and the
things concerning Jesus. But ‘he knew only the baptism of John’, the text affirms,
… but when Prisca and Aquila heard him, they took him and expounded to him the way of God more accurately.
Clearly Prisca is team teaching theology with Aquila and the student is no beginner, no fledging catechumen;
rather he is the famous, eloquent preacher of Alexandra. Furthermore, Luke’s Gospel was indeed dedicated to
Theophilus. But there is little doubt that Luke also intended it to be read by the church. Thus when he identifies
Mary as the author of the Magnificat he indirectly presents her as a teacher of theology, ethics, and social justice
for all his readers. Yet irrespective of one’s view regarding sources and authorship. Luke presents Mary as the
singer of this song and thus as a teacher of the readers of his Gospel. These two texts witness to the fact that in
the early church, women (Mary and Prisca) could teach theology to men.
Phoebe is called a deacon (diakonos) not a deaconess. The evidence for the feminine use of this Masculine form
is slight.40
Most likely this masculine ending is because Phoebe was ordained to a clearly defined ministry, that
of deacon (diakonos). Thus the formal title appears. Another reason is that the Aramaic word is Shammash,
which is used to describe the High Priest officiating in the temple on the Day of Atonement. But the feminine
Shammasha means a prostituteThe need for an honourable title would dictate the use of the masculine in a
church where a significant number had Aramaic as a part of their linguistic heritage.
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In any case, for centuries, scholars have observed the official nature of Phoebe’s position. Regarding this verse,
John Calm wrote,
He begins by commending Phoebe ….. first on account of her office, because she exercised a very honourable
and Holy ministry in the church’.
In the contemporary scene, Granfield concludes, we regard it as virtually certain that Phoebe is being described
as a or possibly, the ‘dean’ of the church in question, and that, this occurrence of diakonos is to be classified with
its occurrences in Philippians 1.1 and Timothy 3:8
We would add to this that in 1 Timothy 4:6 diakonos is applied to Timothy himself where it is usually translated
‘minister’. While recognizing that Romans is written when the church’s ministry was in an early and more
undefined stage, Dunn feels that, ‘servant’ is inadequate.
He writes,
diakonos together with ousa points more to a recognized ministry … or position of responsibility within the
congregation.
Paul refers to himself and Apollos as diakonoi in 1 Corinthians 3:5 Furthermore, Phoebe is called a prostatis
over many. This word was applied to the leader of worship in a Graeco-Roman temple as well as to a governor,
a chieftain, and the leader of a democracy.45
Dunn argues for patron/protector, or leader/ruler. A ninth century
Arabic version translated this phrase, ‘qa’ ima ‘ala katherin wa’ alayya’, in authority over many and over myself
as well.47
A second text relevant to women deacons is Timothy 3:8-11. Here the qualifications for deacons and for ‘the
women’ appear. The two lists exhibit striking parallels which can be seen as follows:
1 Timothy 3:8-11
Deacons likewise must be: The woman likewise must be:
1. Serious (Semnous) 1. Serious (semnas)
2. Not double-tongued (dilogus) 2. Not slanders (diabolous
3. Not addicted to much wine 3. Temperate
4. Not greedy for gain 4. ---
5. They must hold fast to the
mystery of the faith (ekhonstas to)
5. Faithful in all things (NRSV) (Pistas en pasin)
Better: Beliving in all
These two lists are obviously intended to be parallel. The critical item for our subject is number five. The
deacons must hold onto the faith. As seen above, the parallel item for the qualifications of the women is ‘Pistas
en pasin.’ The other six occurrences of this word in I Timothy are translated as referring to the act of believing
in the faith. Here, alone, it is consistently translated ‘faithful in all things’ referring to a character trait. Does not
the parallel nature of the two lists make dear that ‘believing in all things’ is what is intended? These women
engaged in activities directly related to the faith in the same way as the men. Deacons in Act 6 appear in Acts 7
and 8 as preachers of the word (cf. Stephen and Philip). Regarding ‘the women’ here in Timothy John
Chrysostom wrote.
Some have thought that this is said of women generally, but it is not so, for why should he introduce
anything about women to interfere with his subject. He is speaking to those who hold the office of
Deaconesses.
Above all, Priscilla was among those who Paul described as all of whom “worked hard” in the Lord. The term
Paul uses here, is descriptive of the toil in proclaiming the Gospel. It appears that during the thirteenth to
sixteenth centuries a name known by the church, East and West, to be female gradually became the name of a
man in the West. In the Middle East this shift of gender did not take place until the nineteenth century. The shift
in both cases was made without reference to any evidence.
We may now ask, is the title ‘apostle’ significant? In the New Testament this title was primarily applied to the
twelve. Paul, James, Barnabas and the two people in the text were also called apostles. From the shortness of
the list and the prominence of the first three names, it is clear that they were a highly selected group. In 1
Corinthians, the apostles head the list of church orders (12:29). As noted, the church is built on them (Eph. 2:20).
The title is best understood to have maintained its original meaning, which was an eye-witness to Jesus who had
received a direct commission from him.50
Thus, the title of apostle (as applied to Junia) cannot be seen as a casual reference to an insignificant early
Christian witness. With Chrysostom,51
the Early Fathers, Arabic and Syriac Christianity, and the Authorized
Version translators, we can affirm with full confidence that Junia (feminine) was an apostle.
Paul’s commendation of Phoebe; Romans 16:1-2 read ‘I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deaconess of the
church at Cenchreae, that you may receive her in the Lord as befits the Saints, and help her in whatever she may
require from you, for she has been a helper of many and of myself as well.’
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It is evident from the above statement that Phoebe, was a servant of the church in Cenchreae. The word
Deaconess would have meant either a Pastor or a servant. Whether as a Pastor or a deaconess, Phoebe served the
church so much to merit Paul’s commendation.
Paul, who found it unnecessary to still leave Priscilla and Aquila there, moved them on to the church at Ephesus
(Acts 18:18). She was also of such a tremendous spiritual and material help to the saints that Paul said of her
‘has been a helper of many and myself as well’. It is to be noted here, that Paul would never commend anyone
who did not impress him, especially on spiritual matters. Phoebe was a female minister of very high standing.
The same Paul who said woman should keep silent in churches also commended Phoebe for the work she was
doing at Cenchrea.
Other women greeted by Paul in Romans 16:6 are: Mary Tryphaen Tryphosa, and Persis, all of whom ‘worked
hard” in the Lord (vv 6, 12). The term Paul uses here, is descriptive of the Lord in proclaiming the Gospel (1
Corinthians 4:12; 15:10; Philippians 2:16; 1 Timothy 4:10). In Philippians 4:2, 3, Paul mentions two other
women, Evodia and Syntyche, as persons who have laboured side by side with him in the gospel.’
Appeal is often made to Paul’s reference to Junias (Rom 16:7) to defend the alleged leadership role women
fulfilled in the apostolic communities. The text reads: “Greet Andronicus and Junias, my kinsmen and fellow
prisoners; they are men of note among the apostles, and they were in Christ before me (Rom 16:7). Among a
long list of fellow workers, Paul here acknowledges two Jews who shared in his imprisonment. Their services
make them noteworthy “among the apostles”. Is Paul here characterizing a woman, Junias, as an “apostle”? If
so in what sense?
Lethia Scanzoni and Nancy Hardesty, view the case of Junias as a major example of the fact that ‘from the
beginning women participated fully and equally with men.’ In the leadership of the church, they write:
One woman ‘apostle’ is even mentioned in the Bible! Junia, saluted by Paul in Romans 16:7, is a common
Roman name for a woman, but since she is identified as an “apostle” many translators have assumed the name to
be a contraction for a much more common male one.58
This categorical conclusion is discredited by three important considerations. First, the name ´Iouvι v in the
Greek text grammatically could be the name of either a man or a woman. Thus, the grammatical form does not
permit a categorical conclusion in either direction. Second, it is possible that the passage does not identify
Andronicus and Junias as apostles at all, because the grammatical form of “men of note among the apostles” can
be translated equally well as “they are noted by the apostles.” The latter appears more plausible because, as John
Murray explains, they were Christians before Paul and, no doubt, were associated with the circle of apostles in
Judea if not in Jerusalem.
Third, the term “apostle” is used in the New Testament in both a narrow and broad sense. In a narrow sense it
designates “the twelve” as when Mathias “was enrolled with the eleven apostles” (Acts 1:26) to replace Judas.
Because of this extensiveness, Paul had to labour to prove the legitimacy of his apostleship (I Corinthians 15:9-
11: 2 Corinthians 12:11-13; Galatians 1:1, 11:2-9). In a broad sense, the term “apostle means a “messenger”
someone sent out for a specific mission (2Cor 8:23; Phil 2:25). If Andronicus and Junias were apostles, most
probably it would be in the latter sense, since nowhere else are their names associated with the inner circle of the
apostles.
In the light of the foregoing considerations, we conclude that Paul’s reference to Junias lends support to the view
that she was a woman apostle. The name can refer equally well to a man, and whether the person is a man or a
woman, (he/she) was not an apostle in the narrow sense of the word.
Recommendations
Women in the contemporary church are challenged to be faithful servants of the Lord Jesus Christ who has
called them into the ministry of the church.
Therefore, if women are allowed to play their due roles in the ministry, the church will grow more spiritually,
numerically and financially. Owing to cultural misconceptions and misinterpretation of the Bible, women are
hindered from playing their God-given role in the church along side their male counterparts. The church will
enjoy more peace and a touch of compassion if Christian women are sincerely accepted and allowed to make
full use of the gifts God has given them.11
Lorry Lutz,( 2003 ) narrates a situation when women saved a hopeless situation in Somalia. After the
withdrawal of the peacekeeping troops there, the warlords renewed fighting and killing. The women of Somalia
formed peace committees made up of the elderly, respected women of each of the clans. According to Lutz, they
confronted the warlords reminding them that it was their children who were suffering, and their farmlands,
which could not be planted or harvested without a government structure, without an official head of state, these
committees become the negotiators for peace, the providers of food and the distribution network for what little
supplies get into country.
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This shows that God can use a woman to achieve certain things which men cannot achieve. If the church
recognizes the potentials and gifts of women, it will do well to overcome the unprofitable bias on gender, which
has undermined the growth and the general welfare of the church.12
The Somalia women cited above learned
that they could make an impact without guns or positions of power in the areas of life and death affecting other
homes and children. Perhaps nobody would have officially appointed them to form such committees at peace
times. Development workers have come to the same conclusion.13
Women tend to be more reliable, more
effective in implementing changes in their communities that will help their children and raise the standard of
life.14
The church will benefit from tapping the untapped resources of potentialities of women bias. The combination
of male and female working together represents the complete creation of God; when he looked at male and
female and saw that all He had made was very good (Genesis 1:31).15
Thus, if the church encourages men and
women to work together, they can combine their strength. Examples abound of women who have been used of
God immensely. In Philippians 4:3, Paul talks of some women who toiled along with him in spreading the good
news. He compared them with "Clement and the rest of his fellow workers whose names are in the Book of
Life.16
This shows that God uses males, as well as females. It should be noted that "the great commission does
not exempt anyone. Every Christian, whether male or female; should work together without restraint by every
possible means to become active witness, confessor, testifier or proclaimers of the good news of every creature."
The Lord Jesus Christ gave a woman (Mary Magdalene) the responsibility to deliver the report of his
resurrection to men (John 20:11-17). The story of a blind woman, Frances Jane Van Alstyne, who composed
Methodist Hymn 422 is an example of what God can do through women. Many more examples could be cited of
women with whom God has worked as single ladies or married women.
On the basis of that affirmation, these are the recommendations for women in the Methodist Church Nigeria.
The conference of Methodist Church Nigeria should undertake a study on the Christian Theology of the
human person in order to dispel all Biblical misconceptions that form the basis of opposition to women's
ordination.
Women should be recognized and integrated in the communion of love. To recognize that, to have
received the gift of the Holy Spirit and they are fully integrated into the community through their baptism, and
participation in the Eucharist.
That the collaboration of men and women is indispensable for evangelizing the world; and for
renewing the life of the church.
Women, in particular should be given special theological education which would increase their courage
and self confidence and enable them free themselves from the societal prejudice and negative stereotypic image
which they have come to accept.
There should be informed and serious discussion on the issue of the ordination of women at all levels;
such discussion should be carried out under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is essential therefore, that the
discussions be undertaken prayerfully that we may have God's grace and be open to his guidance rather than
being motivated by purely human considerations.
Church should work on demolishing blocks to women's full participation in church by exposing female
stereotypes and analyzing socio-economic roles that oppress women.
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