I Suffer Not a Woman

Did Paul forbid women to exercise leadership and teaching gifts or was he dealing with a particular error in the church? In this fascinating look at 1 Timothy 2:11-15, the Kroegers argue that Paul was dealing with a specific problem, a myth taught almost exclusively by women, that was sweeping churches and was to become a foundation for gnosticism. They point to leaders such as Deborah and Lydia and examine a range of archaeological and textual evidence. Here is solid ground for Christians who affirm the authority of Scripture, yet struggle with Paul's apparent disbarment of women from leadership. Whether or not the reader accepts the Kroegers conclusions, this book is important reading for all who wish to be fully informed about the current arguments in the debate over women's ministry. The authors have opened windows to shed fresh light on one of New Testaments painfully puzzling passages. Their thorough research in the life and language of the Greco-Roman world combines with a clarity of expression and a sensitivity to theological issues that will commend their work to all who care about biblical authority and the ministries of Christian women. -David A Hubbard.

Solid scriptural evidence and a close look at historical context refute the traditional interpretation used to bar women from leadership.Read less