Affirming Women in Leadership: Dismantling Patriarchy with Scripture and Conviction - w/ Bonnie Lewis

Episode • Sep 14, 2016 • 52m

How biblical justice, equality, and the true story of Genesis reframe the conversation around women in ministry in the church. Mike Erre and theology teacher Bonnie Lewis kick off a new multi-part conversation on the role of women in Christian leadership, diving deep into Bonnie’s personal journey, cultural preconceptions, and ultimately how scripture affirms her calling. This is not a culture war issue—it’s a gospel issue.

Mike and Bonnie begin by naming the “three ghosts” that haunt the women in ministry debate: the Usurper, the Temptress, and the Child—destructive labels that still shape how many churches treat women who lead. They unpack the theological, pastoral, and gendered barriers still in place within conservative evangelicalism and share how their views shifted not because of culture, but because of the Bible itself.

Key Takeaways: • Reading Genesis with Fresh Eyes – The Hebrew word “ezer” (helper) used to describe Eve is a term also applied to God, radically reframing assumptions about female subordination. • Jesus’ Countercultural Invitation – Mike and Bonnie explore New Testament stories like Mary and Martha to demonstrate how Jesus consistently welcomed women into discipleship and leadership. • Paul’s Contextual Commandments – Rather than timeless prohibitions, Paul’s words in 1 Timothy and 1 Corinthians are reexamined as culturally specific instructions for gospel clarity. • The Holy Spirit’s Work in Women – How affirming women’s full participation in ministry doesn’t dilute the gospel—it reflects its power to restore what’s been broken by patriarchy. • Restoring the Church’s Witness – Addressing how inconsistency in honoring women in church undermines justice the church claims to advocate for in the wider world.

Guest Highlight: Bonnie Lewis – Founder of the "Find the Blue" podcast and Fuller Seminary graduate with a Master’s in Theology, Bonnie shares her journey of moving from silence to conviction. A gifted communicator and passionate theologian, she brings both grace and clarity to this vital topic.

Resources Mentioned: • Find Bonnie’s Podcast: Find the Blue • Article: “Three Ghosts That Haunt the Church” – [Link] • Scripture Refs: Genesis 1–3, 1 Corinthians 14, 1 Timothy 2, Acts 2, Luke 10 (Mary & Martha) • Watch/Listen to the Sermon on Mary and Martha – Search “EV Free Fullerton Luke 10 Mary and Martha”

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Music by Timothy John Stafford – Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

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We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV.

Our Merch Store! ETSY

Learn more about the Voxology Podcast

Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify

Support the Voxology Podcast on Patreon

The Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology Radio

Follow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerre

Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

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