Women's Bible studies are a surprisingly controversial topic in Christian conversations. You'd think they would be a no-brainer, but instead it can be divisive and complicated.
In today's episode I address the elephant in the room when it comes to popular authors like Beth Moore and Sara Young and what place they should and shouldn't have in Bible based churches. I explain the problematic theology that pops up in women's groups around the country and also why it IS so attractive. We look at a list of suggested criteria for vetting a Bible study you might use and I have some tips for leaders too.
Suggested guidelines:
- Ask your pastor for suggestions and/or to vet the resource you are considering.
- Does the material frame the conversation around a theology of the cross? Or a theology of glory?
- What role does Scripture play? Is the Bible a book of rules or the story of our rescue?
- There should be law AND Gospel both. So something about sin and also something about Jesus saving us from that sin. What is the suggested answer to the sin problem? [red flags]
- Does author distinguish between passive righteousness and active righteousness?
- Does the study see Jesus as a coach? A magic helper? Or a Savior?
- What is the author’s view of the Means of Grace? Is the author anti-sacramental?
The links:
Lisa Cooper's paper - "An Evaluation of Beth Moore's The Patriarchs study in View of the Two Kinds of Righteousness"
Lisa's List - Evaluating Christian Women's Bible Studies
Oh I forgot to mention on the show that the CPH LifeLight studies are a good solid study of Scripture. Not gender-specific, just for all believers!
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Production Notes · music - Spoke in the Wheel by Electric Tangerine Audio at http://audiojungle.net/user/ElectricTangerine · Vocal Introduction by Kena Clark · Intro/Outro Production by Bradley Hofbauer