Why don't pastors ever talk about the degrading treatment of women in Scripture? Why would God have a different definition of adultery for a man than a woman in the Old Testament? Since the virgin birth is a core tenet of the Christian faith, why do the Gospels trace Christ's ancestry through Joseph rather than Mary? These and other questions are posed by Pauline Beer as she traces her journey to find dignity in light of God's apparent tolerance for female degradation.
After years of questioning divine justice and searching for answers, she presents a comprehensive look at a male-centered social system that has shaped history, Bible translations, and Christian theology. As she explores the sexual and religious dynamics of patriarchy, Beer reveals how gender imbalance has skewed our moral compass, restrained the free-flowing power of the Holy Spirit, and impeded our understanding of the gospel. Her journey ultimately leads to a vision of hope for a reformation that will equip the church to address people's deepest needs and reveal the gospel in a glorious, new light.
"Thoroughly relatable and biblically insightful, the Ultimate Reformation unmasks the manifold ways Scripture and human flourishing are undermined by male authority portrayed as God's ideal. Author Pauline Beer leaves no stone unturned in exposing Christian patriarchy as the ultimate heresy."
-Mimi Haddad, PhD., President of CBE International
"The Ultimate Reformation by Pauline R. Beer is a powerful, eye-opening read that dives deep into the traditional patriarchal attitudes in Christianity and how they shape our views on gender. Beer doesn't hold back - she's calling out the need for a major overhaul in how we interpret the Bible, pushing for a perspective that respects and values everyone, regardless of gender. This book challenged me and the personal biases I have brought into interpreting Scripture. ... It's not just a critique; it's a call to action for anyone who believes it's time for a change."
-Mark Wilson, Lead Pastor of Hope Missionary Church, Bluffton, Indiana