The strength of A Woman's Place lies in the women who participated in the production of this volume. These women reveal a genuine love for their church. Their writings evidence the tremendous ways in which God's Spirit moves among women in kingdom building.
The 14 authors of A Woman's Place are women who want change; women who believe they can influence the church in bringing it about; women who assume that prejudices exist; and women who desire fulfillment and honest recognition without reference to gender.
Having read the book three times, I believe in its positive contribution. The first book of its kind to be produced by a group of Seventh-day Adventist women, it deserves a fair hearing of its careful analysis and scholarship.
The writers appeal to us to look beyond gender stereotypes. They explore such subjects as the theology of women, philosophical concerns, statistical studies, historical data, and sociological implications. Some chapters include life sketches of women achievers. Others discuss the role of Ellen White. Some writers also offer new and workable strategies for the church and its female members.
The authors claim Jesus as a model for both men and women, seeing in Him a life not bound by stereotypes. They show how Christ successfully operated a hierarchy among equals. We find the Spirit of the gospel reflected in mutual interdependence and appreciation for the special gifts God gave us. This, they say, presupposes mutual submission, resolving the problem of headship and subordination. The authors contend that at Creation God gave authority to both men and women to take care of the earth.
One writer asserts that both male and female are needed to give an accurate image of God. She shows how God often uses feminine terms and figures to describe His character. Only with the creation of woman does man become complete and God can say of His creation that it is "very good." She makes a courageous and persuasive appeal for masculine/feminine people, suggesting that Jesus was the perfect combination of the finest human qualities and virtues.
Another author gives a fascinating explanation of Paul's statements restricting women (1 Cor. 14:33-35; 1 Tim. 2:11-15). She argues that Paul should not be understood as stating an eternal law. Paul's statements are best discerned as applications of the law in the unique setting of the Greek congregations.
Ordination does not appear as a primary issue in A Woman's Place. But the reader expects the idea to emerge, and it does subtly! However, the writers handle the issue of the ordination of women professionally and ethically. Therefore, the value of this book does not stand or fall upon this point.
Some readers might be offended by certain terms, or they could suggest that the findings have little significance. They may even feel this reviewer is biased!
Those who view this as just another book, need to read it carefully. Much more than a book, A Woman's Place speaks with a united voice to the church, giving a message that needs rapt attention!
