When arguing for gender equality and justice, progressive Christians argue often cite the New Testament’s occasionally subversive positions on the matter. In their explanation, Jesus’ teachings alongside various texts relating to women in the New Testament are subtly dismantling the patriarchal constructs instituted in the Old Testament. Plenty of Bible passages can be strung together to support this case, but as I’ve sat with it, I’m not sure the framing is quite right.
By elevating the teachings of the New Testament above the Hebrew Bible, we give birth to a schizophrenic Deity who lacks the courage to subvert unjust systems. And worse, it can nurture a not-so-subtle anti-Semitism by claiming that Jews’ God-concept is morally unevolved, or worse, barbaric.
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