Ruth and Esther: Women of Agency and Adventure

Bruce G Epperly

Jan 2016 · Topical Line Drives Book 21 · Energion Publications

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How does one read the literature of a patriarchal society in a 21st century context? Where can one find good role models for girls and women in the Bible? All too often these questions are answered by presenting the answers given by patriarchal society and not by looking for liberating, examples. It is all too easy to let God's message of setting the captives free ring forth, but directed to a limited audience. But Ruth and Esther provide strong counter-examples of women who had to struggle against the cultural norms in order to live and to do great things for their people. All too often these women are excluded from our studies or when included are portrayed as subordinate people. But Dr. Bruce Epperly, pastor, father, grandfather, and theology sees them as women of agency and adventure, resourceful and proactive women in patriarchal cultures. But despite being subject to the apparently arbitrary decisions of males with authority, both women were agents in their destiny fulfilling their vocations in their particular culture. If you are a Christian pastor or teacher, you owe it to those in your circle of influence to let them experience these two Bible books in new ways, to see them as liberating documents that let everyone know that God doesn't exclude them. From these women of agency and adventure, those who find themselves excluded from power can find encouragement to stand up and be the persons of agency and adventure that God created them to be, no matter what restrictions others have placed upon them.

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About the author

Bruce Epperly is an ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and United Church of Christ and the author of over 20 books, including Philippians: A Participatory Study Guide. He regularly lectures, leads workshops and retreats, and gives reiki trainings throughout the United States and Canada.

A graduate of Claremont Graduate University, Claremont, California, in 1980, Bruce has served as a faculty member at Central Michigan University, Georgetown University, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Wesley Theological Seminary, and Lancaster Theological Seminary. He also served as Senior Protestant Chaplain at Georgetown University. Currently, Bruce is the Visiting Professor of Process Studies at Claremont School of Theology.

Dr. Epperly lives in Centreville, MD with his wife and life partner, Kate, and is the parent of Matt Epperly and the grandparent of two young children.

Author web site: Bruce Epperly

Bruce Epperly is an ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and United Church of Christ and the author of over 20 books, including Philippians: A Participatory Study Guide. He regularly lectures, leads workshops and retreats, and gives reiki trainings throughout the United...

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