Luther's Restoration of the Status of Women

Abstract

Within the circles of the Wisconsin Synod, the status of women in the church is a subject of regular discussion. From generation to generation, the question of the roles that women play in the church continues to be discussed. Articles are written, doctrinal statements are formulated, and yet the question persists. The point in question in this ongoing dialogue has less to do with what is expected of women and more to do with what a woman’s status is in the church and the world. Martin Luther fought an uphill battle at the end of the medieval period to reestablish the real status of women in God’s eyes. Many cultural practices in the Middle Ages demonstrated that women had a lower social status. Throughout his life and ministry, Luther challenged the status quo for women and gave them back their standing before God in the process. There is much that can be taken from Luther and applied to current discussions if he is allowed to speak.