Jul
06
2012
Complementarianism for Dummies
Last week a reporter asked me to define “complementarianism.” She didn’t know what it meant. And that’s not entirely surprising.
“Complementarity” is a word that doesn’t appear in the Bible, but is used by people to summarize a biblical concept. It’s like the word “Trinity.” The Bible never uses the word “Trinity.” But it’s undeniable that it points to a Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Though the concept of male-female complementarity is present from Genesis through Revelation, the label “complementarian” has only been in use for about 25 years. It was coined by a group of scholars who got together to try and come up with a word to describe someone who ascribes to the historic, biblical idea that male and female are equal, but different. The need for such a label arose in response to the proposition that equality means role-interchangeability (egalitarianism)—a concept that was first forwarded and popularized in Evangelical circles in the 1970s and 80s by “Biblical Feminists.”
I’ve read several posts on the internet lately from people who misunderstand and/or misrepresent the complementarian view. I was at the meeting, 25 years ago, where the word “complementarian” was chosen. So I think I have a good grasp on the word’s definition.
In this post I want to boil it down for you. In emulation of the popular “for Dummies” series of instructional books, I’ll give you a “Complementarianism for Dummies” primer on the intended meaning of the word.
You can read the whole thing here.
20 Comments
Her comments are closed, so I’ll comment here… I’m having difficulty reconciling these 2 statements from item #2:
A. “Complementarians believe that the Bible’s principles supersede tradition. They can be applied in every time and culture.”
B. “Culture has changed. What complementarity looks like now is different than what it looked like sixty or seventy years ago.”
Simple distinction, James.
Compelementarity can be applied in every context, but its application looks different today than it did in 1960. In 1960, it likely meant much time hanging laundry and ironing junior’s shirts. Today it likely means more time shuttling kids to soccer practice and answering emails on the iPhone. Regardless of the year on the calendar, though, it means embracing a feminine identity that differs from a masculine one.
[...] Justin Taylor) Rate this:Share this:FacebookTwitterLinkedInEmailPrintMoreDiggRedditStumbleUponLike this:LikeBe [...]
Wow
25 years later and still – Folks don’t know what this “made up word” means.
Mary Kassian says…
“I’ve read several posts on the internet lately from people who misunderstand and/or misrepresent the complementarian view. I was at the meeting, 25 years ago, where the word “complementarian” was chosen. So I think I have a good grasp on the word’s definition.”
Maybe they could have chosen a better word – Or – At least a better definition. ;-)
IMO – Mary does get it correct with the “Title” of her imaginary book… With one little addition…
“Complementarianism – is – for Dummies”
JJ, I wouldn’t say that complimentarianism is for dummies. However, I have often thought that complementarianism is subscribed to by those who want/need defined structures.
There is another theme in Scripture that supports the egalitarian view. Call it a ‘tension’ between the two points of view. We could also say ‘ambiguity’ holds the two in check, but some people feel ambiguity hints of falsehood, or a lack of clarity.
Ambiguity need not signify falsehood, but rather two truths held in check. Some truths cannot be defined in black or white. The western mind seeks black/white answers, not so the eastern mind (let’s assume half the world’s population). Those who are uncomfortable with this tension will gravitate toward black/white definitions, such as hierarchical and organizational structures. Those who find truth emanating from mystery and ‘disruptive’ concepts have no problem with less defined systems or codes – in fact they are suffocated by the other. In other words, we don’t all think alike and we don’t all approach life the same way.
Being an egalitarianism, I have a problem with new wine being poured into the old wineskin of patriarchal dominion. But, that doesn’t mean those who hold to a complementarian point of view are less intelligent than someone like you or me. And I don’t think you believe that they are less intelligent. But, kudos to your amusing title.
Marisme
Enjoyed your comments…
“Call it a ‘tension’ between the two points of view.”
“I have a problem with new wine being poured into the old wineskin of patriarchal dominion.”
And relieved you were able to see the humor intended for the “Title.” ;-)
I’m kinda new to this Comp – Egal debate. Only heard about it a 3-4 years ago when I entered the world of the internet. And yes – There are scriptures to back up both points of view.
It seems to be a dispute about who is entitled to have important sounding “Titles” NOT found in the Bible – And the – Power – Profit – Prestige – Honor – Glory – Recognition – Reputation – that come with those “Titles” invented by “The Religious System”of our day.
So, for me, I’m neither Comp, nor Egal. Much to confusing for simple unedjumacted me.
I’m inventing another option. Like Mary said in the article – “a word that doesn’t appear in the Bible, but is used by people to summarize a biblical concept.”
I’m inventing, making up, a new Word like the Comps did – “To summarize a biblical concept.” ;-)
AllOneServantarianism… :-)
Believers are – All – bretheran. Mat 23:8.
Believers are – All – One – body of Christ. 1 Cor 12:12-20.
Believers are – All – One – Servants of Christ – Servants of All. Eph 6:6, Mark 9:35.
Believers are – All – One – In Christ Jesus. Gal 3:8.
Ga 3:28
There is neither Jew nor Greek,
there is neither bond nor free,
there is neither male nor female:
for ye are *All* “ONE” in Christ Jesus.
Does this verse say – male and female – are equal? OR…
Does this verse say – male and female – do NOT exist?
For ye are *All* “ONE” in Christ Jesus.
there is neither – Male nor Female.
there is neither Complementarinism nor Egalitarianism,
there is neither Calvinism nor Arminianism,
there is neither Catholic nor Protestant,
there is neither leaders nor followers,
there is neither clergy nor laity,
there is neither pastors nor sheep,
and the list goes on…
AllOneServantarianism… :-)
And – “All” are taught by God.
John 6:45
It is written in the prophets, And they shall be “ALL” taught of God.
Deuteronomy 4:36
Out of heaven he made thee to “hear His voice,’
that “He might instruct thee:”
Of course,
1) the Bible doesn’t teach this
2) it inevitably leads to “there is neither orthodoxy nor heresy”
The comment section reeks of postmodern ridiculousness.
Maybe the reduction to black and white is ok, because, believe it or not, the Bible actually does claim some things to be right and some things to be wrong. It actually does take a stand on issues. Oh, the humanity!
Paul’s arguments about roles with men and women are grounded in creation. If creation is ambiguous, then pretty much all bets are off and like Dan said there, anything goes.
Jay, I did not say that nothing can be evaluated as black or white. Nor did I say that all things are black or white. What I was saying is that some people have a tough time being contented without labeling things as black or white, especially when there is evidence to support opposing views.
The propensity to label all things black or white is just as problematic as the temptation to label nothing as black or white. What we all need to do is be open to each others’ ideas and to test them against Scripture. Labels such as ‘postmodern ridiculousness’ doesn’t move us closer to truth.
As far as ambiguity goes, I find Jesus as both God and man is a prime example of ambiguous/mysterious truth – just as light can only be explained by defining it as both a wave and a particle.
(I find the dual nature of light especially interesting since Jesus is the ‘light of the world’ – and he is both God and man). And I believe with all my being that Jesus is both God and man – and the Savior of us all.
Finally, thank you for so clearly illustrating my initial premise. I, too, need to be careful not to ‘resemble my remarks’.
Maybe in approaching the wonders of God, we should humbly admit that we are all ‘dummies’ searching for truth.
Ahh…yes..the ‘ole “equal but different” argument. Women are equal to men but sooo different that they are denied the opportunity to “complement” them! How absurd!
Dan
Thanks for the addition to the list of things
that “Do NOT Exist ” for those who are in Christ Jesus.
“there is neither orthodoxy nor heresy”
I’ve always had a challenge trying to figure out the difference between “orthodoxy and heresy.” I mean, with so many of today’s “Male Religious Leaders” claiming “Orthodoxy” – And ALL these “Male Religious Leaders” seem to disagree about something and then proclaim – the others are teaching “heresy.”
Hmmm? Who determines who is teaching “The True” – “Orthodoxy?”
Have you noticed that there are now thousands of Denominations.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Christian_denominations
wikipedia claims 38,000 Denominations. Even if they are off by 90% – That’s 3800 Denominations.
Most were started by “Male Religious Leaders” who disagreed with “Their Male Religious Leaders.” Most claim to be “biblical” and they ALL disagree about something.
Seems to me these “Male Religious Leaders” have really messed things up for us
lowly sheepies trying to find Jesus.
I think I’ll stick with Jesus – He’s the best Teacher – And the best Shepherd – Yes???
And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold:
them also I must bring, and they shall “hear My voice; “
and there shall be “ONE” fold, and “ONE” shepherd.
John 10:16
One Fold – One Shepherd – One Voice – One Leader
{{{{{{ Jesus }}}}}}
JJ,
Which Jesus? The one who is fully God and fully Man, who takes away the sins of the world? Or the nice teacher?
If the former then apparently you do believe in a difference between orthodoxy and heresy despite your comments. If the latter then you’ve decided to strip the Bible of all it’s meaning and insert your own. If you don’t think it matters then you’ve already made a choice.
[...] "Complementarianism for Dummies". It is making the rounds and has been featured on Justin Taylor's blog and the True Woman website. In her blog post Kassian [...]
Dan
Yes – The Jesus I know, and who knows me…
“is fully God and fully Man, and takes away the sins of the world.”
And the Bible is the standard I look to when “mere fallible humans” invent words,
(Complimentarianism) that are NOT found in the Bible.
I NO longer have much trust, or faith, in todays so-called “Male Religious Leaders.”
After seeing them start thousands of Denominations and promote different “orthodoxy.”
And watching “Male Religious Leaders.” mis-using the Bible for their advantage.
To maintain control – To Gain – Power – Profit – Prestige… ALL things Jesus spoke against.
Ps 118:8-9 KJV
It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man.
It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes.
Jer 17:5 KJV
Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man,
and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD
And why – after 25 years – is Mary still trying to explain Complimentarianism?
Maybe – because – it is extra-biblical? Something added? And NOT what Jesus had in mind?
Complimentarianism says – Women are NOT to teach men – BUT…
Seems the most important message, the most important teaching, ever given to man-kind…
***He Is Risen***
Was given by Jesus to at least five women to deliver to the “Male Apostles.” Lk 24:2-11 KJV
When they do NOT believe the women Jesus upbraids the “Male Apostles.” Mk 16:9-14 KJV
Jer 50:6 KJV
*My people* hath been *lost sheep:*
“their shepherds” have caused them “to go astray”
1Pe 2:25 KJV
For ye were as *sheep going astray;*
but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.
{{{{{{ Jesus }}}}}}
I find it difficult to understand that brothers and sisters passionately post comments on an issue with no effort to be objective at all. Br Justin just explained what complementarity ought to mean. The need to reflect on the gender and church ministry came in as a necessary response to the emergence of “Evangelical Feminism” in order to correct and expose what they considered a dangerous heresy at that time. He believes that response is founded on timeless (or universal) biblical principles that should design gender roles in God’s work for through the Church in this fallen world. I believe the move was correct, some details might still need some sharpening and the name given to it as well.
Excellent post, Jimmy Justice!
Victorious
Seems to me, this Comp – Egal thing is about – Who gets the Power – Profit – Prestige?
And It only shows up in “Todays Religious System” – The 501 (c) 3, non-profit, tax $ deductible,
Religious $ Corporations – Which is NOT “the Church of God” found in the Bible.
Should believers call a Corporation – “the Chrch of God?” AAAARRRRGGGHHH!!! ;-)
Where I live in “The body of Christ” – this gender issue – “Comp VS Egal”- does NOT exist.
“Disciples of Christ” do NOT exercise, or assume authority over any of “His Disciples”Mark 10:42
In Christ we are “ONE.” “The Church” is “the body” of Christ. NOT a building, an organization,
an institution or a corporation. Keeping to “The Traditions of men” is not the point.
Where I live in “The body of Christ” it’s about – Who knows Jesus? Who is Hearing “His Voice?” Who has a living Christ within? Who has the Spirit of God dwelling in them? Who has been taught by God? Who has a revelation from God? Who is exhibiting “the Fruit of the Spirit?” Who is moving in the “Gifts of the Spirit?” Male or Female.
This is what’s important. ALL can “hear from God.” ALL can, and are expected to, participate.
1 Cor 14:26
How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, **every one of you**
hath a psalm, **hath a doctrine,** hath a tongue, **hath a revelation,** hath an interpretation.
Let all things be done unto edifying.
It’s NOT about “Who” does the teaching, But, “Who” has a revelation from God, male or female.
It’s about recognizing and decearning the Spirit that dwells within the person.
The Spirit of God? Or, the Spirit of the world? Or, ….
1Cor 2:12
Now we have received, not **the spirit of the world,** but the spirit which is of God;
that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
1Cor 3:16
Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?
When it’s the same “Spirit of God” dwelling in male and female – does gender matter?
In, Jesus, He is the head of the body, (the ekklesia, the called out ones) “the Church.”
We are all ”ONE” body. We are all “ONE” in Christ.
John 6:45
It is written in the prophets, And they shall be ALL taught of God.
Deuteronomy 4:36
Out of heaven he made thee to **hear His voice,**
that *He might instruct thee*
Jimmy Justice,
Once again an excellent post. I was beginning to despair there was any church on the face of the earth that didn’t slice and dice the gospel into a male/female legal book.
Why do you suppose comps can’t see the unscriptural, erroneous bondage they create when they deny half of the body of Christ the freedom to function in the gifts of the Holy Spirit?
It doesn’t take a degree to see it, after all.
[...] Complementarianism for Dummies. Mary Kassian, a well-respected author and women’s speaker, has given a short definition to what an often misunderstood term means: Complementarianism. [...]
Complementarianism–where men and women in the Church, marriage, and society are “equal, but different”
Sounds a whole lot like the “separate but equal” doctrine used to control our African American brothers and sisters in the South a few generations ago.