Published on April 1, 2024, 12:05 am

In a recent sermon, Ashley Wilkerson, who claims to be the pastor of Pacific Coast Church, made an astonishing argument – that the early Christian church was rife with female apostles but their identities and contributions were hidden in Scriptures by tampering with their names. Singular as this contention seems, it lacks validity when analyzed from the perspective of adherence to scriptural authenticity, historical scrutiny and traditional comprehension.

The role of an apostle as delineated in the New Testament is a profound one, assigned directly by Jesus Christ or manifested through divine calling such as experienced by Paul. The primary functions included witnessing Jesus’ resurrection and teaching with authority endowed upon by Christ. The notion of wholesale editing of Scripture to erase women from these roles appears baseless and absurd, considering this office is divinely appointed and not subject to human interference.

Moreover, historical evidence contradicts Wilkerson’s assertion about shifting narratives concerning women’s roles within early Christianity. Preservation of biblical texts over centuries involved meticulous processes driven by deep respect for divine inspiration encapsulated within them. Allegations about intentional misrepresentation of apostolic genders and names do not align with available evidences nor does it impart credibility. The consistency maintained within these sacred manuscripts has been accredited by numerous scholars debunking any theory surrounding conspiratorial alterations.

Overlooking the significant roles played by women figures in scriptures depicts ignorance towards their notable contributions. Women like Phoebe and Priscilla played instrumental roles in shaping up the early Christian church. These roles don’t necessitate redefining Scriptures or intricate manipulation.

Wilkerson’s claim becomes problematic not in acknowledging women’s contribution but implying deliberate manipulations undermining the sanctity and providential preservation of biblical text itself. Such assertions create a divisive narrative straying away from gospel truth. Individuals perpetuating misleading ideas that jeopardize the integrity of God’s word should be identified for precautionary measures.

Turning our attention to more current affairs, Rachel Gilson, a self-proclaimed same-sex attracted woman who made an appearance at the Southern Baptist Convention’s women’s conference in 2023 recently featured in a promotional video produced by Preston Sprinkle’s Center for Faith, Sexuality, and Gender. In another instance, following the leak of Supreme Court’s verdict on Roe v. Wade by Politico, Karen Swallow Prior, ex-professor at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary voiced her displeasure against President Trump through social media channels.

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