Jesus Feminist by Sarah Bessey - A Review

 Jesus Feminist by Sarah Bessey was a book that was recommended to me by a friend. I found this book interesting, enjoyable, and encouraging. At a time when I find myself questioning my place within the church and discouraged by the way women are often treated by leaders and followers in the church, this book acts as a bit of a balm to the wounded soul.

The word “feminist” gets a bad rep these days. Too much of a stigma is attached to the word these days. Heck, I had a few people question me when they saw the title of the book I was reading, saying “What are you reading? Looks like trash to me.” I’d like to plead this book’s case, please don’t disregard it based on the title. This is a good book, one that’s definitely worth the read. In Jesus Feminist, Bessey offers a freedom call for all who want to realize their gifts and potential in the kingdom of God. Bessey uses a thoughtful review of biblical teaching and church practices to share how following Jesus made a feminist out of her.

Many people like to refer to a few verses, taken out of context, written by Paul to make their case against women having any sort of leadership role in the church. Some go as far as to suggest that we should be completely silent in the church….. Yes, it’s 2018 and people still believe that. But as Bessey points out, Jesus spoke to women directly, instead of through their male-headship standards and contrary to the order of the day. She uses superb examples of Jesus engaging, interacting, and working through/with women. The Samaritan woman at the well, Mary Magdalene being the first witness to Jesus’ resurrection, and Mary and Martha being a select few. Bessey backs up her claims with biblical and sound theological evidence.

I very much enjoyed reading Jesus Feminist and found it incredibly encouraging. This book encouraged me to press on and stand my ground. I would recommend this to all Christian women. It’s a good read.
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I give it a 7/10.