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by Kevin Pauley
There is a recurring theme throughout the course of history that finds its source in this initial act of rebellion. Our ancestress Eve longed for divinity and in reaching for that unattainable state, she plunged the whole world into darkness.
Semiramis (who was both Nimrod’s[1] mother and wife) was considered to be a goddess. Her veneration has continued for millennia, evolving her into numerous forms[2]. She sparked a whole series of mother and son, Madonna and child religions. She was called the “Mother of God” and the “Queen of Heaven.”
She was even venerated as the “Queen of Heaven” by the people of Israel. Jeremiah had to deal with her[3] and it was to her worship that the people turned when Solomon allowed apostasy to proliferate under his rule[4]. The worshippers of Diana rioted in Ephesus when Paul’s gospel message threatened the sale of her figurines[5] (which is oddly reminiscent of the sale of indulgences, statuary and scapula).
Today, many people choose to address God as “she” and do great harm to the Scriptures by twisting it to fit their gender-bending agenda.
We are told that a queenly figure that will dominate the world’s religious scene[6] toward the end of time and that this “harlot” will only find her demise at the hands of masterful traitor called the Antichrist[7].
“What are you saying?” You may ask. “Are you one of those who believe that women should be silent, barefoot and pregnant?” Not in the least. I thank God for the many wonderful examples of strong, godly female leaders ranging from Miriam[8] through Huldah[9], Deborah[10], Esther[11], Anna[12], Junia[13], Philip’s four daughters[14] and on to Priscilla[15].
What I AM saying is that women, in their desire to find equality, need to be careful to not progress beyond that goal to preeminence. They should not “authentein” (meaning rape or pillage) authority[16]. In true Christianity, there is no gender dominance[17]. Instead, there is mutual submission[18].
I am also saying that we need to accept God on His terms. We know that as a Spirit, He has no sexual organs. But if He chooses to present Himself as predominantly male, who are we to argue? Let’s not, in our overzealous drive for sexual equality, create a transsexual god.
[2] Ashtaroth, Aphrodite, Venus, Artemis, Diana, Athena, Minerva, Demeter, Ceres, Gaea, Terra, Hera, Juno, Hestia, Vesta and Rhea
[4] Judges 10:6 (also, Judges 2:13; 1 Samuel 7:3,4; 12:10; 1 Kings 11:5; 2 Kings 23:13)
[9] 2 Kings 22:11-14,20Kevin Pauley is a pastor and writer. He lives in Illinois with his wife, Lynn, their five children and two dogs. His internet address is Berea.
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