Many people in history have twisted Scripture to fit their own ideas - perverse or otherwise. Salem, Massachusetts in 1692 is a prime illustration of this fact. Twenty people were killed because of a feared association with witchcraft. We've recently seen an example of this in the news with the supposed "Rapture" on May 21, 2011. There is nothing that people are more willing to believe than the Bible, even if it's merely someone's interpretation. And Scripture has been used, time and time again, to abuse and mistreat women.
In my opinion, this is one of the greatest injustices blamed on God's Word, but I can see how it can be confusing. There are many instances in the Bible in which women seem to matter less and be valued less than men. Those who tyrannize women use verses like I Peter 3:7 (wherein women are described as the weaker vessels) to justify their mistreatment of the women in their lives.
I have always felt that this is a gross misinterpretation of God's love, but I never knew how I could prove it. I was in a bookstore a year ago when I came across a version of the Torah that included commentary by a Jewish scholar. It suddenly dawned on me: how could I possibly comprehend a book that wasn't written for me!
Now, before everyone complains that the Bible is for all believers at all times (which I know!), let me clarify. The Old Testament was penned by Jewish men for the people of Israel. Although God knew that it would one day become the definitive book for Jesus-followers, those men didn't. It is full of the history, culture, and traditions of the Jewish people. How can I understand that with my thoroughly modern, Western mindset? This scholar would have much more insight into the Jewish culture than I ever could.
That day, I began a journey of discovery that still continues. I don't know how many people read this blog, but I'd like to share my findings with you. I can't promise you that I'll understand everything in the Bible. I can't promise that everything I say will be correct. And I can't promise that everything I say is from the Lord. I can only give you my opinions, thoughts, and views.
This is the beginning of a series I'd like to call "God's Daughters."
Hi there!
ReplyDeleteIt's been a while since I've visited your blog, and I was happy to see several new posts. Yay! It's always such a treat to read your writing and to hear what's going on in your spiritual journey.
I, too, struggled with this issue. Especially the "wives be submissive to your husband" scripture. But it wasn't until I really understood that being submissive meant to be under the mission of your husband. And your husband's mission is to love his wife as Christ loved his Church. How did Christ love his Church? He laid down his life for us. It was a self-sacrificing love. Personally, I can get on board with that as a wife!
Is that scripture widely understood? I think not. But, as you wisely point out, history is full of people who cherry-pick scripture for their own evil intent. I can't say that I've never been one of them. In my view, Scripture is best understood through the lens of personal humility and love for others.
The Lord tells us to ask for Wisdom...and I pray for it every.single.day. Apparently, you've been praying for the same thing, because there's plenty of it here at Girl with God.
Erin, I feel excited to hear about your journey of discovery. I want to hear more about what you are learning and thinking about! :)
ReplyDeleteCathleen,
ReplyDeleteThank you SO much! I absolutely agree with what you said about that particular verse. I think it's silly that so many people head straight for that verse, but they completely miss the verse right before it: "Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ" (Ephesians 5:21). The following verses are not placing one marriage partner over another but simply relating in what ways we are to submit to each other.
Personally, I feel as you do. If a man is willing to lay his life down for me and love me as Christ loves the church, how could I object to doing what I am called to do? I know that all of us are imperfect and will not do what we should 100% of the time, but it's a nice thing to dream about. :)
Joseph,
I'm working on another post, and I'll make sure to let you know when it's up!