What About Women? by Deborah P. Brunt

Deborah has written a liberating and powerful book for women who have been called by God to minister in the church.

We might think we know God's mind on the issue but Deborah shows, through Peter's rooftop vision, that God sometimes shocks us, changing what we thought we knew to be His truth. She reveals the influence from Greek culture and the early church fathers on the attitude toward women. She also reveals the historical translation bias against the inclusion of women in many Bible passages. She advocates newer biblical translations, such as those translating anthropos as “human” rather than “man.” She also covers Paul's references to women and their ministries.

Deborah is bold in inviting us to take away the leadership grid we have placed over the New Testament. She says they are beliefs that are religious but not true. We cannot let a few verses blind us to the teaching of the entire New Testament.

Deborah pays particular attention to verses like to 1 Timothy 2:12, investigating the original Greek. Her insights are refreshing and liberating for women. And I wasn't aware of Paul's “snorting” in 1 Corinthians 14. (You have got to read the book to find out about this Greek word appearing in the text but not translated into English.)

Deborah writes, “If you're a woman, God does not think you are less able than men to follow him, to lead others or speak in his name.” She wants women to be encouraged. Being a woman does not disqualify you in God's eyes.

This is a powerful book. Her investigation into the Greek text of the biblical passages used to silence women is great. This book challenges the often held view of women in ministry. But anyone interested in what the Bible actually says about the topic will do well to read this book.

Deborah Brunt is from the Deep South and is a product of the conservative culture there. She and her husband currently live in the Memphis area. You can find out more about her at www.keytruths.com and follow her blog at http://keytruthsblog.wordpress.com/

Key Truths, 185 pages. You can take a look inside the book and find out where you can buy it here.

I received a complimentary digital galley of this book from the author for the purpose of this review.