Women in the Maze: Questions and Answers on Biblical Equality

And so is the word of God, which she painstakingly explores. Ruth Tucker is a woman who has fearlessly and thoroughly studied the Word of God and what it has to say about women. The result is this book, which wonderfully and wittily answers so many questions that women are afraid to ask about our places in God's plan. The chapters themselves are phrased as the questions that are so often posed in regards to women. Tucker not only explores the meaning of Biblical passages in original Greek, but also the rather simple meanings of the passages in English. You may be surprised to see how easily people have twisted passages to make them seem repressive to women, when in fact they are quite clearly the opposite when viewed the correct way. Tucker also points out how easily people with agendas cherry pick different parts of Scripture and even blatantly write off some commandments as cultural while simultenously uplifting others, sometimes just a few sentences later, as meant for all time! (For example, note how so many have written off Peter's admonishment for women not to wear jewelry or braids as "cultural, just meant for the times", whereas Paul's declaration that he didn't allow women to preach has been given enough significance to deny women ministry for all time!) Tucker carefully examines the tenses used in Biblical phrases to determine whether or not certain commandments really were meant for all time. She also, to my great delight, reveals the true meaning of a wife as "helper" and even points out that husbands are often helpers, too; the role of helper is quite interchangeable and easily applies to both spouses. I highly recommend this book to any, especially a woman who struggles to know her identity. Tucker is a smart, vibrant woman who presents the truth of Scripture in ways that are wonderfully clear and easy to understand. Thank you, Ruth, for helping lead us out of the maze :)

I wholeheartedly recommend this book! Not only for women, but for men, too. As an evangelical believer, I found myself truly challenged and rethinking many things I've always believed without question. I was fascinated, encouraged, perplexed and excited after reading it! I wish every Christian I know would read this book!

This book powerfully shaped my view of gende