Diminished Capacity

In an age of equal rights, it is sometimes difficult to see the Bible as a friend of women. Although some texts treat husbands and wives as equals (1 Corinthians 7:4), other passages view women a the "weaker vessel" (1 Peter 3:7) and place them in a supporting role rather than a leading role (Ephesians 5:22-25). In another time and place, the Bible's approach to gender looked different. Ina patriarchal world, daughters ad wives were viewed as property. In such a setting the Scriptures elevated the status of women.

But, today the suggestion that a woman should submit seems backward and even unAmerican. What if a wife has better judgment than her husband? What if she is more gifted in making and managing money, hanging wallpaper, or fixing things around the house?

Conditions of diminished capacity

As a rule, we don't question a woman's leadership if her husband loses his ability to protect and provide for his family. Few will criticize a wife for stepping up to the challenge if her husband is:

* Physically disabled.
* Diagnosed with a debilitating mental or emotional condition.
* Morally entangled in an addiction that blinds him to the needs of his family.

Some, however, have missed the extent to which such lost capacity is a significant factor in the Bible's approach to men and women........