Gender Roles and Patriarchy in the Church

Gender Stereotypes

100

Where did gender stereotypes begin

They begin from the Bible, from Adam and Eve in the Genesis story.

200

How do gender stereotypes affect the Church and more?

• The stereotypes have restricted leadership roles for women as men were seen as more suitable for leadership rather than women.

• Gender stereotypes affect gender roles, especially in marriage and family, where men are expected to be breadwinners and the patriarchs.

• Women are expected to take care of children and have the caregiving role. 

300

What is Gender sterotypes in the church like today

Currently, the Church is more inclusive and more accepting of women obtaining leadership roles.

Some women in Church broke away from gender stereotypes from the past by obtaining leadership roles such as the clergy and more.

Masculine Nature

100

What did Martin Luther say about women equality

• Protestant Reformation

Martin Luther: “If the woman had not been deceived by the snake, she would have been equal to Adam in everything” (Luther, 1535)”

200

Current events of Masculine Nature of the church

• Deeply rooted sexism in churches

• Control and subordination of women by stereotypes

300

Solutions to the masculine nature of the church

• Emphasis and clarity of verses - Little room for misinterpretation

• Expansion and redefinition of roles

• Higher education

Gender Inequality

100

What is Gender Inequality

Gender inequality refers to the difference in how people are treated and viewed based on their gender, often affecting one’s rights, status and opportunities.

200

Two key issues affecting gender inequality

Exclusion from Leadership Roles

Harassment and Abuse

300

Two solutions to gender inequality in the church

Promote Leadership Opportunities

Policy Reforms

Encourage Grassroots Movements