EDITOR – Response to Frank Horn’s latest letter – ‘Women’s emancipation begins at home and in worship’.
Allow me to first start my letter by seeking forgiveness from Mr Horn.
As a church leader I take responsibility for his faulty perception of the church’s teaching on women. It is with sadness that I concur that much of the church, has in the past, misconstrued the truth of God’s word, and as such has allowed many abuses to continue. Apartheid and women’s rights to name but two. It is indeed sad that many church leaders have allowed the cultural dynamics to overrun the clear teachings of scripture.
But there are at least two areas in which I strongly disagree with Mr Horn and am compelled to correct his false portrayal of the Christian doctrine.
Mr Horn, it is not possible for anyone to amend the Bible, no matter the needs of society. The Bible is a holy book that was written (breathed out) by God Himself. The scriptures have not been changed for over 2,000 years (speaking of the original autographs) and there is no authority to alter them in any form. It is this truth, of inspiration, that should drive all preachers of the word to the study so as to derive the truth of God’s Word, not their own messages which often lead people astray. Society may change over time, but the Word of God will last forever (Isaiah 4:8 and 1 Peter 1:15).
Secondly, Mr Horn the Bible never teaches that men are superior to women. In fact the Bible teaches that man and women were both created in the very image of God (Genesis 1:27). It further teaches that men and women are equal and are both heirs of Christ (Galatians 3:28). The equality of humanity is in fact a constant truth that is proclaimed within the pages of the Bible. The Bible does teach us that God has designed men and women to fulfil different roles particularly within marriage and the church, but these roles are never meant to create an idea of superiority or inferiority. It is actually man’s sinfulness that brings about an abuse of these roles (Gen 3:15-17), a sinfulness that resulted in God sending His own Son to die on the cross for our atonement.
Know that I am willing to discuss this matter more fully with you in person, allow me that opportunity so that I am able to correct all the wrong that some within the church have allowed to transpire.
PASTOR DES VENTER
Grace Baptist Church, Amanzimtoti
