Expert: Elder Greg Madden - 2/2/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi,I am a potential credential holder with the Assemblies of God. I have read the A/G's standpoint on women in ministry, it says that, "we must continue to be open to the full use of women's gifts in ministry and spiritual leadership". Does this mean a woman can be a senior pastor and if so, why is it so rare? Thank you Susy

ANSWER: Ms Susy,

First let me apologize for not giving you an adequate answer to your questions. Though I did give you (as you noted) several specific cases of woman in ministry. If you will note by these women listed in scriptures who were in the ministry, none of them were senior pastors. Your questions was "Does this mean a woman can be a senior pastor and if so, why is it so rare?" I feel that I gave you more than an adequate answer to both of these questions.

Many women are listed operating in ministry positions within the Bible (this is clear). But there is not one who is specifically listed as a "senior pastor".

Then you asked me why it is such a rare case for women to be senior pastors. I did answer you as to why this is the case.

Ms Susy, from your response it seems to me that you were expecting me to somehow prove that woman were listed as senior pastors in the Bible (which there is not one). Then when I did not, you criticize me for giving you a "baptist" answer (which by the way, I am not baptist). So with all do respect, please do not criticize me for giving you the answers to your questions.

Please forgive me for any misunderstanding. I hope and pray that the Lord will continue to use you in His kingdom.

Elder Greg Madden
http://www.forministry.com/USOKPENTEMMM1



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Dear Mr. Madden, I apologize for coming across as critical. I was looking for an Assembly of God view, which is why I particularly selected this site. I was also looking for something concrete to present to a class to help more clearly define this subject of much debate amongst the students in an Assemblies of God educational facility. I appreciate your effort in answering my question-thank you and God Bless, Susy

ANSWER: Ms Susy,

You are welcome. And as I said before , it is I who apologize for not giving you the answers you were seeking. If you don't mind me asking, what type of "class" is it you are teaching? Just curious.

Elder Greg

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Dear Mr. Madden,
The class I am taking is taught at a Bible College. It is a credentialling class for the Assemblies of God which goes through its history,beliefs and politics. Thank You Susy

Answer
Ms Susy,

Thank you. I will be praying for you and your continued work in the ministry. I do encourage you to follow the Lord, and wherever His Spirit leads you. Remember, it is God who has placed the call upon your life, not man. And if where He guides, He also provides!

Please feel free to contact me again if you should have any further questions.

Elder Greg Madden
http://www.forministry.com/USOKPENTEMMM1