FOREWORD BY DEAN E. ARNOLD

Discriminatory practices that impair community life among Christians are frequently denounced by authors in quest of biblical equality. This book takes the thoughtful reader a step further. It identifies the root cause of such practices as the systemic curse of the patriarchal rule that resulted from the fall. Not only does this work provide us with a careful analysis of the nature and workings of patriarchy, but it also presents a vibrant challenge to repudiate the legacy of sin and to uphold the standards of redemption in Christ's new community. Gilbert Bilezikian, Professor Emeritus, Wheaton College

In addressing head on the topic of patriarchy, Del Birkey has uncovered some challenging materials that bear on the gender issues in the Catholic, Orthodox, and Evangelical church traditions. The patriarchal system is squarely confronted and exposed to full view with its manifest consequences for male-female relations. I warmly recommend this book to all concerned to understand what patriarchy is, and how it may express itself harmfully in the modern Christian family and church. Alan Johnson, Emeritus Professor of New Testament and Christian Ethics, Wheaton College and Graduate School

Many Christians believe that male dominance is dictated by the Bible. In his provocative new book, Del Birkey challenges this oft-held assumption, critiquing the debilitating battle between Scripture and tradition. Patriarchy is the inevitable theological result of the biblical Fall, Birkey argues, leading to devaluation of and violence against women worldwide. As a fallen system, patriarchy cannot be a legitimate component of biblical Christianity.

Filled with compelling historical and scriptural evidence, The Fall of Patriarchy is a must-read for everyone who has decried the scandal of patriarchal power in Christian ministry today.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Del Birkey, D.Min., served in pastoral, evangelistic, and teaching ministries both in churches and as visiting seminary professor. He is author of The House Church: A Model for Renewing the Church.

FENESTRA BOOKS 2005
PAPERBACK, 392 PGS