Dr. Andrew Bauman, founder of the Christian Counseling Center and expert in sexual health and trauma, discusses how men can take an active role in protecting women. He shares findings from his research with over 2,800 Christian women, challenging traditional interpretations of scripture regarding female roles. The conversation tackles the misuse of forgiveness and modesty in religious contexts, and emphasizes the need for men to advocate for women's rights and create safer church environments. Bauman stresses the importance of equality and transformative masculinity.
Dr. Andrew Bauman emphasizes the need for men to confront sexism within church environments and advocate for women's empowerment and safety.
Research indicates that 82% of women in church communities believe sexism influences their environments, highlighting the urgent need for change.
Deep dives
Origin Story of Advocacy
The speaker shares a personal narrative that drives his commitment to addressing sexism and abuse within the church. Growing up with a father who was a prominent pastor but also led a secretive double life catalyzed his understanding of the psychological impact of such betrayal on his family. This experience set the foundation for his recognition of his own unhealthy patterns, eventually leading him to pivot from being a pastor to becoming a therapist. His dedication to advocacy stems from the desire to ensure that the painful experiences of his mother and other women are acknowledged and addressed within faith communities.
Widespread Sexism in Churches
Research conducted among over 2,800 women employed in church communities reveals alarming statistics on sexism and its pervasive nature. A significant 82% of women reported believing that sexism influences their church environments, with many recounting disturbing personal experiences, such as inappropriate jokes and discriminatory practices. The majority of women felt that the church environment often places the burden of modesty on them rather than addressing the underlying issues of male behavior. Such findings illustrate the urgent need for churches to reevaluate their approach to gender dynamics and the treatment of women within their ministries.
Misinterpretation of Scripture
The discussion highlights the damaging effects of misinterpretations of biblical texts regarding women's roles in the church. The speaker argues that specific verses historically used to justify women's silence and subordination have often been misconstrued, stripping them of their true meanings. By reframing the context of these scriptures, such as redefining terms that were previously understood as silence into meanings that promote respectful engagement and learning, a case is made for the essential roles women played in early Christian communities. This reevaluation calls for a shift from patriarchal interpretations towards an understanding that promotes equality and partnership.
Men's Role in Advocating for Women
The conversation emphasizes the critical responsibility men hold in advocating for change within church structures. Men, especially those in leadership, are encouraged to confront their own internal struggles with sexism and to create safer environments for women. By engaging in proper training, open dialogues, and ensuring representation of women in leadership, churches can begin to dismantle the existing power structures that perpetuate abuse and discrimination. The dialogue insists that true masculinity involves supporting and empowering women rather than upholding harmful traditions that have long oppressed them.
How can men protect women instead of complying with sexism and abuse? Dr. Andrew Bauman shares the results of his research with over 2,800 Christian women, and what men need to hear in order to advocate for change in our churches and communities.
Dr. Andrew J. Bauman is the founder and director of the Christian Counseling Center: For Sexual Health & Trauma (CCC) and has served as a mental health counselor. Also formerly a pastor, Andrew now works with men and women to bring healing and wholeness to their sexual and spiritual lives.