I ran across this article today regarding our former President Carter, and how he feels that faiths have been doing women (in some sectors of course) a disservice. That they are using cherry picked scripture to keep them in a inferior position, and he feels its against scripture.
The words of God do not justify cruelty to women, and when I read that I almost fell off my chair today.
He seemed have joined an organization called The Elders, and they wish to speak about things that seem more like 'tradition' or 'culture' than truth when it comes to issues like women's rights in this aspect. I was floored when I came across this. Churches for the most part don't wish to acknowledge this is happening, and here comes a gentleman that is willing to bring the truth into the light!
He also has decided after MANY years to leave the Baptist church over their view of women in scripture.
I have been a practising Christian all my life and a deacon and Bible teacher for many years. My faith is a source of strength and comfort to me, as religious beliefs are to hundreds of millions of people around the world.
So my decision to sever my ties with the Southern Baptist Convention, after six decades, was painful and difficult. It was, however, an unavoidable decision when th e convention's leaders, quoting a few carefully selected Bible verses and claiming that Eve was created second to Adam and was responsible for original sin, ordained that women must be "subservient" to their husbands and prohibited from serving as deacons, pastors or chaplains in the military service. This was in conflict with my belief - confirmed in the holy scriptures - that we are all equal in the eyes of God.
This view that women are somehow inferior to men is not restricted to one religion or belief. It is widespread. Women are prevented from playing a full and equal role in many faiths.
Nor, tragically, does its influence stop at the walls of the church, mosque, synagogue or temple. This discrimination, unjustifiably attributed to a Higher Authority, has provided a reason or excuse for the deprivation of women's equal rights across the world for centuries. The male interpretations of religious texts and the way they interact with, and reinforce, traditional practices justify some of the most pervasive, persistent, flagrant and damaging examples of human rights abuses.
At their most repugnant, the belief that women must be subjugated to the wishes of men excuses slavery, violence, forced prostitution, genital mutilation and national laws that omit rape as a crime. But it also costs many millions of girls and women control over their own bodies and lives, and continues to deny them fair access to education, health, employment and influence within their own communities.
Part of the statement from this organization was as follows:
Religion and tradition are a great force for peace and progress around the world.
However, as Elders, we believe that the justification of discrimination against women and girls on grounds of religion or tradition, as if it were prescribed by a higher authority, is unacceptable.
We believe that women and girls share equal rights with men and boys in all aspects of life.
We call upon all leaders to promote and protect equal rights for women and girls.
We especially call on religious and traditional leaders to set an example and change all discriminatory practices within their own religions and traditions.
The Elders are fully committed to the realisation of equality and empowerment of all women and girls.
I applaud Past President Carter's Stand on this issue!
I have heard almost ALL my life about how the teachings of the role women do not equal 'less than', but to me actions speak louder than words! That is NOT to say that men of all faiths act or believe this way, but to say there isn't many? That's hardly the truth! It takes men like President Carter that are willing to speak up, and take the critism about this that will make a difference for all.
It may also change the roles of men in a good and healthy way. It will encourage more men that do serve their roles within the family in a biblical way to stand up and speak up against the ones that push the 'tryant' ways of others. No one wishes to rock the boat, but maybe now the issue can be discussed.
If we can open this door, and speak of the injustice that is done in the realm of women? What is to stop the conversation from contining on to Sexual abuse among other things. You won't have to worry about people accusing you of 'slandering a man of God' when you dare speak a word. WOW maybe common sense can be used, and uglies can be faced instead of hidden.
I have no doubt there will be either silence or a major uproar over his stand. I started a thread at Crosswalk's Ibelieve forum in their 'current event' section. I have to seriously wonder if anyone will have the courage to even talk about this.
Carter Speaks out about Treatment of women of faith, and how it encourages domestic violence! What a man of GOD!
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