derekmaul

World Cup Soccer and Women Preachers!

 Now Deborah, a prophet, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time. She held court under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites went up to her to have their disputes decided. – Judges 4:4-5

– Rebekah preaching in Wake Forest

Good morning, friends. There are a couple of things people have been asking me to comment on, so here we go.

First, the current “women in ministry” conversation, prompted by the latest “dig our heels in” resolutions in both the Southern Baptist Church and the PCA (Presbyterian Church in America).

I think the best I can say (other than referring readers to several relevant blog posts) is that the idea of making policy designed to limit God’s options is laughable. The Lord has chosen women to lead and to speak since Deborah became a judge, Lydia led a house-church, Junia was recognized as an apostle and God used Rebekah Maul to re-energize churches in Pensacola, Brandon and Wake Forest.

God is so much more creative and imaginative and innovative than the voices of a tired patriarchy holding onto power and control rather than holding out the word of life.

The World Cup:

A lot of you have asked me about the World Cup. Well, I have loved soccer since I was a small child. I played competitively as a teen, represented the southeast of England, did well on my college team and continued to play recreational soccer until I turned 40.

Recently, thanks to YouTube game summaries, I have been able to keep current with play in the English League.

The World Cup, played every four years, is essentially The Olympics of Soccer, bringing the world together in a spirit of intense competition, yes, but also a sense of mutual admiration as the cream of the world’s best talent are showcased.

Drama and controversy aside, I am seriously impressed at the high standard of play. Even the lower tier teams have shone admirably, making sure that not a single game is a cakewalk for a stronger opponent. The athleticism, the skill, the artistry and the imagination have all been on full display.

My “teams to watch” going forward are as follows:

  • France
  • Argentina
  • England
  • Spain
  • Brazil
  • and darkhorses Norway, Portugal and Belgium

Individuals to look out for are Messi (Argentina), Mbappé (France), Harry Kane (England), Haaland (Norway), Vinícius Júnior (Brazil), Dembélé (France) and Lamine Yamal (Spain).

This is some good stuff, y’all. Enjoy! – DEREK

3 comments

  1. Hear, hear! Yes, Rebekah’s ministry at WFPC, as well as, Pastor Liz Troyer’s, is all I need to know that God calls women to preach his word in positions of leadership. I would also travel thousands of miles to hear Mary Magdalene preach anywhere.

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  2. Thank you! Standing up for women ministers! We need more comments like that. More ministers like William sloane Coffin and his powerful sermons and messages. Where have these leaders gone?
    On another note, I wish organizations would ask donors why they have chosen this organization or that one to give their donation. People give for various reasons and this is all a meaningful part of that individual’s life story.

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