Why Women Should Not Be Pastors

The pastors present a defense of complementarianism, arguing that Scripture consistently restricts the office of elder, bishop, or pastor—understood as the highest leadership role in the church—to men, based on the order of creation, the qualifications in 1 Timothy 3, and the context of 1 Timothy 2:11–14. They critique egalitarianism not only as a theological misreading of key passages but as a cultural phenomenon influenced by modern ideologies like DEI and critical race theory, which they view as distorting biblical authority and ecclesial structure. Their conversation emphasizes that while women are affirmed as equal in worth and gifted in ministry, the pastoral office carries unique responsibilities rooted in biblical hierarchy, and the term 'pastor' must be understood in continuity with the New Testament offices of elder and overseer.

The pastors firmly and unambiguously state Athol Baptist's doctrinal position: only men may serve as elders, bishops, or pastors, and women are encouraged to lead in all other areas of service and teaching.

DISCLAIMER
The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the respective speakers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions, policies, or doctrines of Athol Baptist Church and its members.