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In some Christian circles female ministers are an anomaly, in others it is very common.  No matter which circle you are in, there are several misconceptions about women in ministry.

Myth #1: Our Husband is Not the Leader of Our Home.  Though Christian marriage in the 21^st century has progressed to more of what the bible speaks of when it comes to husbands and wives relating to each other (that women are not just to submit to their husbands, but husbands are supposed to love their wives as Christ loved the Church), there is often a misconception that as a female pastor we “wear the pants”. This is false.  Our marriages have more of an equal playing field today, but our husbands still lead us.  I like how my friend Julie (an executive pastor in Colorado) puts it, “I am 49% and my husband is 51%.”  They have mutual respect for one another, but she comes under her husband’s protection- no matter how fancy her pastoral position is.

Myth #2: We Are Radical Feminists:  We may want opportunity just like our male cohorts, but that doesn’t mean we want to control men.

If you study true radical 21^st century feminism you will find it is both oppressive and debilitating to how God has created men and women to be.  God created both sexes to be His image bearers and use us both to point people to the Gospel.

Myth #3:  Churches That Allow Female Pastors Are Okay Homosexuality:  Many tend to compare allowing women to lead to homosexuality. This is like comparing apples to oranges. The bible teaches that women CAN teach and lead.  Paul does, however, condemn the act of homosexuality.  Again, apples and oranges.

PS-  We are ALWAYS to show love and compassion to those who have same-sex attraction.  Loving people as ministers is about pointing all people to Jesus through being patient, kind, humble, and rejoicing in truth. 

Myth #4: Married Leaders Have No Needs: Often when a married female is in leadership, there is a misconception that she lacks for nothing because her husband works.  Just like any other working individual, an exchange of value needs to be made. She needs to be compensated financially for her value no matter her family budget. This includes salary as a staff member at church and as a guest speaker at your church service or conference.

PS- I’ve often heard this from male pastors too. Just because a pastor’s wife decides to get a job after being a stay-at-home mom for years doesn’t mean he should get a pay-cut or not receive raises.

Myth #5: We All Want to Be Christian Famous: We are not looking to be Christine Caine, Lisa Bevere or Beth Moore. In fact, we’d appreciate it if you didn’t compare us to them or expect that amount of caliber.  As awesome as they are, we do not want to be in their shadow, nor have the pressure that comes along with it. Many of us just want opportunity.  Opportunity to shepherd, lead bible studies, or be invited to preach on a Sunday outside of Mother’s Day.  

What about you?  Have you believed any of these myths?  Are there any myths you have believed about women in ministry that are not listed?  Leave them in the comments below, I’d love to read them!

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