For the past couple of years I have been following Kris Vallotton and have been really fascinated by his teachings—particularly his teachings on women in church leadership. Last month, I had the privilege of connecting with Kris and his wife, Kathy, at Bethel’s Prophetic Conference 2016. We discussed the idea of doing a blog swap, and here it is. I hope you enjoy the insights Kris brings.
Women Leaders in the Church by Kris Vallotton
In a recent interview with America Magazine, the Pope spoke of his concern for women to find their proper role in the church. He said, “Women are asking deep questions that must be addressed. The church cannot be herself without the woman and her role.”
I agree with the Pope. I have an amazing wife, two daughters, a daughter-in-law and three granddaughters that wake up every day to a world of discrimination simply because of their gender. But the most troubling aspect of this oppression is that the church is often found leading it! Many believers have developed a theology that proactively uses the Bible to disqualify women from the most formidable roles of leadership, especially in the church. I am appalled by the number of Christian leaders who are convinced that women are not as qualified, called and/or gifted to lead as men are.
The argument for disempowering women is illogical, and unscriptural. For instance, if the devil’s mission is to kill, steal and destroy, then consider this: Men commit more than 80 percent of all crimes in the world! In America alone, 93 percent of all prisoners are men, while women commit only .04 percent of all violent crimes. That’s right, men are also responsible for starting most wars, committing the worst atrocities ever chronicled and have incited nearly every genocide in the history of the planet. Think about this: It was Hitler who slaughtered the Jews, men who massacred the Native Americans and men who enslaved the Negro. Men account for most rapes, serial killings and thefts. And it was men who put Jesus on the cross. There wasn’t a single female involved in the crucifixion! As a matter of fact, Pilate’s own wife tried to talk her husband out of crucifying Jesus. Now, don’t get me wrong. I am not saying that women are innocent of wrongdoing. NO! I am simply pointing out the fact that men are at least five times more likely to help the devil carry out his dirty work.
