I decided to write this because of a piece I read by Mom-101 about feminism. Her blog was very passionate, and well written. The term, “feminist” has become a dirty word that has us picturing a man hating, lesbian who has hairy legs and armpits. Mom-101 would like to take back the word feminist, and I would too.
Titus 2:4-5, says the women should be workers in the home. Titus is emphasizing how important the woman’s job in the home actually is.
I do not think this particular scripture isolates her to the home and to that one job only.
I believe that taking Titus 2:4-5 and isolating it apart from the rest of scripture is dangerous; just as dangerous as a woman who calls herself a “feminist” when she is actually a man-hater. One question I have; what do those who focus exclusively on Titus 2, do with the Proverbs 31 woman, Jael with her tent peg, and Deborah the prophet and judge? We should interpret scripture in the light of what the whole Bible says. Jesus even broke down cultural barriers that were anti-feminist. In John chapter 4 Jesus speaks to the Samaritan woman at the well. At that time it was taboo for a man to speak to that kind of woman, much less a Jewish Rabbi. By speaking to her, Jesus tells the world that people are equal in Gods eyes.
Not only does she provide food for her family, and her servants, she also gives to the needy. She dresses her whole household in fine clothing of the best fabric. She sells clothing. Her house is decorated with the finest furnishings. She is strong and dignified, and she is so well prepared that she does not worry about tomorrow. Her family loves her.
It is dangerous to make a woman believe the only thing she can do is stay at home and cook and clean. Here in the real world, we need to be ready for what could lie ahead. I know that it is better for the children if a parent is able to be home with them,but what does one of these women do when her husband starts beating her? I knew a woman who stayed with a man for 30 years who was beating her in the head and giving her black eyes because her church believed it is worse for her to divorce and become independent than for her to be injured. Don’t misunderstand me, I think divorce is terrible, and I hated it, but don’t misunderstand God. God loves us and does not want us to be harmed, and He gave us the job as moms to protect our children too. We should not do what the “church” or religion tells us, we should do what God tells us.
I will tell the story of how we met here. When? I think soon. His mom is a feminist too. (In the good way) She irons underwear, creates lovely pottery, crochets afghans, cooks mean Greek food, Dutch apple pies, and can manage a Supermarket with both hands tied behind her back!
3 comments:
Great write-up. You go girl!
I am so honored that my post inspired you in some way. Thank you.
Mahalo!
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