Women have great value in the Body of Christ
Women are among the greatest blessings God has given to His church. Scripture teaches that women are full heirs of the grace of life (1 Pet. 3:7), equal recipients of Christ’s saving work (Gal. 3:28), and full partakers of the Holy Spirit and His gifts (Acts 2:17; 1 Cor. 12:4–6, 12–13; 1 Pet. 4:10–11). Throughout the world and throughout history, women have exalted Christ in countless ways, strengthening His church through their faith, wisdom, and service.
The New Testament highlights the vital role women played in the ministry of Jesus (Matt. 27:55–56; 28:1–10; Luke 8:1–3) and in the life of the early church (Titus 2:3; 2 Tim. 1:5; Acts 18:26). In the same way, men and women in Neighborhood Church share many responsibilities and serve side by side in the work of the Gospel, and we are grateful for the many ways women strengthen our church family through their gifts and service.
Men and Women have some distinct roles in the church
At the same time, because we desire to follow God’s Word in all matters of faith and practice, we look to Scripture for guidance regarding the roles of men and women in the church. Alongside the many affirmations of both men and women, Scripture also gives direction for how certain responsibilities are to be carried out. In particular, the New Testament entrusts the governance of the church and the authoritative teaching of adult men in the gathered assembly to qualified men (1 Tim. 3:1–7; 5:17; Titus 1:5–9).
Equal roles, even where roles differ
Just as God assigned specific responsibilities within the worship of Israel (Num. 3:5–11; Ex. 29:9) without diminishing the worth of those who served in different ways, so His New Testament design does not lessen the value or dignity of anyone in the church. Differences in gifts (1 Cor. 12:12–30) or distinctions in roles do not imply differences in importance. Scripture consistently affirms the equal worth of every member of Christ’s body.
Diversity of roles and gifts are designed by God for the blessing of His people
At Neighborhood Church, we rejoice in the many gifted women who serve Christ with faithfulness and grace. Because the body of Christ is made up of men and women with diverse gifts, we gladly affirm with the Apostle Paul that no member is unnecessary (1 Cor. 12:15–16), and no one can flourish apart from the contributions of others (1 Cor. 12:21–22).
Our church family is deeply enriched by the presence, wisdom, and service of women. Both men and women would be spiritually impoverished without the gracious work of God through the women of our congregation. We are confident that when we embrace God’s design with humility and joy, Christ is exalted and His people experience both unity and blessing.
If you’d like a fuller explanation of our understanding of this issue, a longer version of this document is available from our church office.