I have learned from my study of theology at Tyndale University that if someone starts off with “The Bible clearly states,” then they are probably going to talk about something that the bible does not clearly state. I’m not saying that the Bible is not our source of dogma, doctrine and belief. We humans simply have tendency to form an opinion and then search for key verses that support our opinion. This is especially true when it comes to modern perspectives on gender equity, as many of us have been told that the Bible states that gender equity and women’s roles are limited. However, when we look at the full scope of the Bible, we see this is not the case.

When I talk about gender, I use the academic definition of the social construction and expected roles we place on people based on cultural differences rather than biological ones, and gender equity as the fair treatment of all genders according to their respective needs and circumstances.

The argument in support of gender equity in the Bible isn’t found in a single chapter or verse; it’s more of a conversation. We must wrestle with complexity, and at the same time, to hold ancient texts in dialogue with contemporary understandings of fairness and dignity. The struggle for gender equity in the church and society today is not a rebellion against the Bible—it is a fulfillment of its deepest truths. A faithful reading of scripture requires context, compassion, and courage.

The lives of biblical women prove that gender was never a barrier to purpose. Deborah led Israel as a judge and prophet with wisdom and power (see Judges 4). Esther negotiated with a king and changed the course of history. Mary Magdalene stood beside Jesus at the cross and was chosen to announce the resurrection—the most vital moment in Christianity (see John 20). These women are not exceptions to the rule; they are the rule quietly woven into the fabric of scripture.

Jesus himself modeled radical inclusivity. In a time when women were socially silenced, he listened, healed, taught, and empowered them. He spoke to the Samaritan woman (see John 4), defended Mary of Bethany’s theological insight (see Luke 10:38-42), and welcomed female disciples (see Luke 8:1-3). His interactions were not accidental—they were intentional affirmations that gender did not determine spiritual worth.

 Even the Apostle Paul, often cited in debates on gender roles, asserts in Galatians 3:28, “There is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” This is not merely symbolic unity—it is a declaration that the social hierarchies of gender have no place in the spiritual family of God.

To walk in biblical truth is to advocate for equity. Not just because it’s culturally progressive, but because it’s spiritually necessary. The God of scripture is the God of justice, of mercy, and of mutual love. Gender equity is not a departure from faith—it is a deeper journey into it.

The Salvation Army, with our Methodist background, has long stood as a beacon of justice, compassion, and spiritual conviction. From its earliest days, it has championed the full inclusion of women in ministry and leadership—not as a concession to modernity, but as a faithful response to biblical truth. The Bible affirms the equal worth and calling of all people. Genesis 1:27 declares that both male and female are created in the image of God—a foundational truth that underpins the Army’s belief in shared leadership. This divine equality was echoed by Catherine Booth, co-founder of The Salvation Army, who boldly preached that “women must be treated as equal with men in all the intellectual and social relationships in life.” Her theology was not radical—it was biblical. Gender equity is not only consistent with scripture; it is central to the Army’s mission of “saving souls, growing saints, and serving suffering humanity.”

As a man and soldier in The Salvation Army, I see my role as an ally and advocate for our Salvationist theology of gender equity. As we work towards a more equitable future for women and men, living out the original vision for leadership in our movement, even little things can make a big difference, like encouraging lay women to take on leadership roles in the church, identifying a woman officer by her rank rather than her marital status, or speaking against gender stereotypes or injustices when you see them in real time.  

In a world grappling with inequality in all forms, The Salvation Army must continue to lead by example. Gender equity is not a trend; it is a witness as it reflects the heart of God and the values of the Kingdom. As Salvationists, we are called to be prophetic voices, lifting those who have been silenced and creating space for mutual flourishing.