This biblical and theological study offers an accessible examination of the key texts of Scripture pertinent to understanding female roles, affirming full equality of the sexes in family and church. The book advocates an interpretive method that sees God's revelation of himself and his will as progressive. Using a creation-fall-redemption hermeneutical model, Beyond Sex Roles leads readers in developing a coherent method of interpretation for understanding the roles of women in church and family.
Gilbert Bilezikian deliberately avoids using scholarly jargon and complex argumentation in the main text of the book to encourage readers to interact with the biblical research. The aim is for nonspecialized readers to be able to follow his discussion step-by-step, evaluate arguments, consider alternative views, and arrive at independent conclusions. This classic work on the egalitarian viewpoint will be a useful guide in undergraduate courses on gender and church life.
The third edition contains an updated bibliography and the text has been revised throughout.
Author Information: Gilbert Bilezikian (ThD, Boston University) is professor of biblical studies emeritus at Wheaton College. He is a charter member and elder at Willow Creek Community Church and the author of a number of books, including Community 101.
