Do they have a secret agenda?
Ashley Wilkerson, serving as the senior co-pastor alongside her husband JonFulton Wilkerson at Pacific Coast Church in Tacoma, Washington, stirred controversy when she suggested that historical alterations might have been made by Bible translators to downplay evidence of women serving as apostles, deacons, and pastors in the early church.
The discussion around Wilkerson’s remarks initiated with a video clip shared online last month, taken from a sermon she delivered at a women’s conference hosted by Trinity Church Miami, titled “Lead Like a Woman.”
In the excerpt, Wilkerson highlighted several female figures from early Christian history, asserting that some may have had their identities obscured in Scripture due to societal biases. She encouraged her audience to delve deeper into the historical context, emphasizing the importance of critically examining cultural influences on interpretation.
In response, Pastor Carl A. Hargrove, an associate professor at The Master’s Seminary, criticized Wilkerson’s assertions, dismissing them as unfounded and driven by an agenda diverging from biblical teachings.
Hargrove contended that there is no evidence to support Wilkerson’s claims of deliberate name changes or the existence of women apostles. He reiterated the traditional interpretation of certain biblical passages, such as 1 Timothy 2, which he believes delineates specific roles for men and women in ministry.
The role of women in religious leadership has been a longstanding subject of debate within Christianity, with various denominations holding differing views on the matter. While some, like the Southern Baptist Convention, restrict women from serving in pastoral roles, others, including Wilkerson’s Assemblies of God denomination, advocate for the inclusion of women in leadership positions.
Wilkerson defended her position, aligning it with the Evangelical tradition of the Assemblies of God and drawing inspiration from scholars like Beth Allison Barr, who challenge traditional interpretations of biblical womanhood. She emphasized the need for individuals to conduct their own research into the history of biblical translations to discern the truth.
The conversation also touched on specific biblical figures, such as Phoebe and Junia, whose roles as deacons and apostles, respectively, have been subject to scrutiny and reinterpretation over time. Scholars like Eldon Jay Epp have highlighted discrepancies in the translation and interpretation of their names, underscoring the complexity of understanding historical contexts.
Ultimately, the debate surrounding women in ministry reflects broader discussions within Christianity about the interpretation of scripture, cultural influences, and the evolving role of women in religious leadership. Wilkerson’s advocacy for a more inclusive approach to understanding biblical narratives echoes sentiments expressed by many who seek to challenge traditional norms and promote gender equality within the church.