Christians for
Biblical Equality

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Christians for Biblical Equality (CBE) comprises churches and individual members who believe that the Bible, properly interpreted, teaches the fundamental equality of believers of all racial and ethnic groups and all economic classes, based on the teachings of scripture as reflected in Galatians 3:28: There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Men, Women and God: Christians for Biblical Equality was the name chosen at the group’s founding in the fall of 1987, when it was affiliated with Men, Women and God, International, based at the London Institute for Contemporary Christianity. The name was shortened to Christians for Biblical Equality when it was incorporated in January 1988. A strategic plan adopted by Board of Directors in October 2000 includes four objectives: (1) to promote egalitarian scholarship; (2) to popularize the message; (3) to produce greater market penetration; and (4) to establish a financially sound organization.

The first major project of Christians for Biblical Equality was the creation of a statement, "Men, Women, and Biblical Equality". It is an overview of the biblical teachings that support women’s full participation in all levels of ministry, as well as mutuality in marriage. The statement was widely published in 1990 in such national forums as Christianity Today and Leadership. This statement has been translated and disseminated into 15 languages.

A major facet of the CBE’s ministry has been its national conferences. These three-day events, consisting of plenary sessions and workshops, have been a significant means of inspiration and education.

Christians for Biblical Equality produces two quarterly publications to which many academic institutions and churches subscribe: Mutuality, a newsmagazine featuring current events and personal stories, and Priscilla Papers, a scholarly journal for serious Bible students. A book service distributes resources that offer a scriptural basis for biblical equality; the annual catalog continues to grow. A website introduces people daily to CBE and its articles, book sales, conference registrations and membership.

CBE members receive Mutuality and Priscilla Papers and reduced rates at the book service and conferences. There are three membership tracks — Individual, Chapter and Church. Churches serve as egalitarian havens for those who wish to worship and serve without gender discrimination. Chapters provide support and grassroots outreach and education across the globe; programming varies according to local needs and interests.

While CBE’s membership draws heavily from Southern Baptists, it also includes members from some 100 other traditions, including Roman Catholic, Orthodox, mainline Protestant, Pentecostal and nondenominational churches.

Mimi Haddad, President

For additional information: www.cbeinternational.org,