“There is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.”
The conversation about the relationship between women and men and their roles in the Christian life and the church has evolved, but the topic continues to inspire debate and disagreement.
The third edition of this groundbreaking work brings together scholars firmly committed to the authority of Scripture to explore historical, biblical, theological, cultural, and practical aspects of this discussion. This fresh, positive defense of gender equality is at once scholarly and practical, irenic yet spirited, up-to-date, and cognizant of opposing positions. In this edition, readers will find both revised essays and new essays on biblical equality in relation to several issues, including the image of God, the analogy of slavery, same-sex marriage, abortion, domestic abuse, race, and human flourishing.
Discover for yourself God’s vision for gender equality.
Editorial Reviews
No book has been more influential for me in articulating themes from texts in the Bible than Discovering Biblical Equality. The original book anticipated much of what developed in complementarianism, and this new third edition responds to the most recent challenges. There are new chapters on fresh themes by new authors. Students and pastors alike will find experts expounding Scripture and demonstrating the Spirit’s unleashing of gifts among women and men alike.
Scot McKnight, professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary
Addressing the questions often asked, as well as introducing those that should be asked, Discovering Biblical Equality covers the terrain with lucidity, verve, and graciousness. The authors give voice to that which stirs the hearts of so many: the singular commitment to the authority of Scripture and the imago Dei in all humans. They do so by laying out their deep exegetical and theological reasoning so that others can assess the logic for themselves. I am excited to recommend this volume to all who wonder about the biblical foundations for equality.
Amy Peeler, associate professor of New Testament, Wheaton College and Graduate School
This is a wonderfully thoughtful study that combines a multitude of voices on a topic that continues to trouble churches worldwide. It demonstrates uncompromising respect for the holy Scriptures and a determination to reconcile the genders and celebrate the fullness of their humanity.
Myrto Theocharous, professor of Hebrew and Old Testament at Greek Bible College, Athens, Greece
The earlier editions of Discovering Biblical Equality were foundational for my understanding of men and women in the Bible. This third edition retains the best of what came before and adds lots of fresh materials to strengthen the case for biblical equality and mutuality. This continues to be the best all-in-one resource for understanding a Christian theology of women in ministry, family, and society.
Nijay K. Gupta, professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary
Having found the earlier editions of Discovering Biblical Equality to be extremely helpful resources in supplementing conversations within the church and the academy concerning our shared human identity in Christ Jesus, we say ‘welcome’ and ‘well done’ to this revised edition. With new essays from fresh (particularly female) voices and a slightly renewed format, this volume continues to address historical and present concerns in wise, irenic, knowledgeable ways. Hence it continues to help us discover the gift of life together as God’s coequal image-bearing children. A truly wonderful ‘upgrade’!
Cherith Fee Nordling, associate professor at the Robert E. Webber Institute for Worship Studies, Regent College, Vancouver, and author of Knowing God by Name
