Voxology

Reclaiming the Church for Everyone: Gender Roles, Power, and Faith in Practice - w/ Bonnie Lewis


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How do we navigate leadership, equality, and calling in a church culture still divided over gender roles? This powerful and refreshing conversation between Mike Erre, Andy Lara, and returning guest Bonnie Lewis dives straight into one of the most pressing theological and cultural issues in American Christianity: the role of women in the church.

Without rehashing old debates, this episode leans into lived experiences, thoughtful critique, and honest reflection on what it means to be a follower of Jesus—regardless of gender. From examining the complementarian and egalitarian theological frameworks to unpacking common misconceptions, societal influences, and church dynamics, the team asks what it really looks like to reflect the image of God together in community.

Key Takeaways: • Complementarianism vs. Egalitarianism – A breakdown of the two dominant theological camps and how their interpretations impact women's roles in the church. • Power and Participation in Church Culture – Exploring how gender disparities in leadership can distort a church's mission and missional effectiveness. • Why the 'Feminization of the Church' Misses the Mark – A critique of evangelical rhetoric that positions masculinity as corrective rather than collaborative. • Deconstructing Binary Thinking – Allowing space for spiritual nuance beyond either/or assumptions about gender, power, and faithfulness. • Modeling Equity Through Leadership – The power of churches affirming women's voices not only in theory but also in actual leadership practice and platform.

Guest Highlight: Bonnie Lewis – A theologian, teacher, and host of the "Find the Blue" podcast, Bonnie shares her personal journey through seminary, ministry roadblocks, and finding her voice both within and beyond institutional church settings. Her reflections offer clarity, courage, and a vision for a more inclusive and biblical understanding of spiritual leadership.

Resources Mentioned: • Bonnie's Website + Podcast – findtheblue.com • Scott McKnight – The Blue Parakeet • N.T. Wright – Article on Women in Ministry • Gordon Fee – New Testament scholar and egalitarian voice • Craig Keener – Egalitarian theologian • Ray Anderson – Theological works on personhood and ministry • "Four Views on Women in Ministry" – Counterpoints Book Series • Rachel Held Evans, Jen Hatmaker, Jo Saxton – Women leaders and writers discussed • Find the Blue Podcast on Apple Podcasts

Join us in continuing this conversation on theological integrity, justice, and equity within the church. Send your comments or questions to [email protected], and be sure to share this episode with anyone exploring what equality in the church truly looks like.

Subscribe, leave us a review, and follow us on social media to stay connected!

Watch us on YouTube: VOXOLOGY TV Our Merch Store: Etsy Shop Support us on Patreon Follow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast Engage on Facebook Learn more at voxologypodcast.com

Music by Timothy John Stafford – Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

As always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to [email protected], and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram.

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Music in this episode by Timothy John Stafford

Instagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

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VoxologyBy Mike Erre and Tim Stafford

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