Ordained Inequality: How a Quiet Movement Redefined Women’s Roles in Christianity.

“Women should be silent.” “I do not permit a woman to teach.” “Wives, submit…” Three verses. One doctrine. End of discussion—or is it? In this episode, we reexamine Paul’s most controversial words on women. What did he actually mean? And why do his actions tell a different story? Because Paul didn’t silence women. He partnered with them. And Jesus? He sent them.

When complementarian leaders tied male authority to the Trinity itself, the fallout was fierce. This episode unpacks the rise of Eternal Subordination of the Son (ESS), the theological mutiny it sparked, and what’s really at stake when power rewrites doctrine. Because if the Son is eternally subordinate… is He still fully God?

“God’s design.” It sounds holy. But it became a leash. In this episode, we trace how a phrase meant to honor creation became a tool to control it—shaping churches, homes, and the women inside them. What if “God’s design” was never God’s at all?

What happens when theology doesn’t stay in the pulpit—but moves into the living room? In this episode, we follow complementarian doctrine from the page to the home, where “servant leadership” often translates into control, and submission becomes a spiritual mandate for silence. We examine how marriage books, sermons, and counseling models have used Scripture to justify hierarchy—and sometimes even excuse abuse. We’ll also unpack what Paul really meant in Ephesians 5, and how the gospel reframes power, not reinforces it. Because Christlike love doesn’t demand authority. It lays it down.

The discussion dives into the controversial remarks from prominent evangelical leaders, revealing their views on women's roles in the church. A notable incident at a pastor's conference highlights the contradictions in claiming equality while promoting silence. The podcast addresses the dangerous implications of certain theological teachings on female submission, especially concerning abuse. It also contrasts differing interpretations of scripture regarding women in leadership, advocating for a reevaluation of traditional gender roles within Christianity.

This discussion dives into the contentious True Woman Manifesto, unearthing how its theology impacts women's roles in Christianity. The speakers critically assess its claims of 'design' and 'submission,' revealing a hidden hierarchy that challenges true equality. With a focus on gender roles, they juxtapose complementarian and egalitarian perspectives, questioning whether this manifesto aligns with the gospel's vision for women. The insights provoke a thought-provoking look at authority, identity, and dignity in a faith context.

This discussion dives into the overlooked stories of women behind the Danvers Statement. They balance domesticity and influence while promoting traditional gender roles. The conversation critiques how women's professional identities are often diminished alongside their domestic responsibilities. It also challenges the traditional framing of womanhood in complementarian theology, advocating for women's agency and leadership within the Christian community. A thought-provoking exploration of gender dynamics in evangelicalism!

Why have so many Christians never heard a biblical case for women in ministry? Maybe it’s not because the arguments weren’t strong. Maybe they just weren’t… published. In this episode, we follow the paper trail—from locked editorial doors to selective bookstore shelves. We name the publishers. We expose the platforms. And we uncover how a small group of gatekeepers shaped what millions of Christians could read, hear, and believe. This isn’t just about theology. It’s about power, distribution, and whose voices got silenced before they ever had a chance to speak.

What happens when theology meets a printing press? In Episode 4 of Ordained Inequality, we pull back the curtain on the publishing empire that helped cement complementarianism into the evangelical bloodstream. From study Bibles to bestsellers, we trace how ideas once debated in academic corners became untouchable truth in the hands of everyday believers.

Before we dive into Episode 4, this bonus episode takes a step back to answer a bigger question: Why this podcast, and why now? Shannon Patterson offers a personal and pastoral reflection on the purpose behind Ordained Inequality—and the double standards that still silence women’s voices in the Church. It’s not about blame. It’s about giftedness. And it’s time we start asking better questions.