Come Out from Behind Those Skirts: An open letter to Frank James...

February 16, 2006

Dr. Frank A. James III
President and Professor of Historical Theology
Reformed Theological Seminary--Orlando

Dear Mr. James,

I suspect Tim and I have both considered asking our wives to answer the egalitarian arguments of your wife, Carolyn, on these pages. It would appear more seemly and, let me assure you, they could do so competently.

But here's the rub: we don't believe in godly wives serving as their husbands' warriors. Over the eighteen years my wife and I have been in pastoral ministry we have mutually sought to keep Cheryl free from the bruising fray of intrachurch disputes and doctrinal battles. At times, this could lead to surprising incongruities... for instance, Cheryl might be taking dinner to a family where the wife was hospitalized and the husband was seeking to have me fired from my job.

Yet God has blessed this division of labor. Cheryl is loved by many who won't give me the time of day. And that's the way it should be. She's not ignorant of the battles, nor is she uncommitted to truth. But she is above the battle and beyond it: she's not a warrior, she's a woman, a mother, a wife.

The Bible does not declare wolves to be of a singular sex. Wolves can be male or female. And, as a shepherd, I must respond to wolves without regard to sex.

But I would rather deal with the male of the pack. Are you that in your home? I trust you are, that Mrs. James is not fighting these battles against your wishes, that you are indeed man of your house with Mrs. James in submission to you as a worthy daughter of Sarah. After all, you call her your "favorite theologian." Surely this implies your support and approval of her teaching.

If this is so, then do us both the favor of taking up the sword (or pen) from her hand. Come into the open and boldly proclaim as a leader within the PCA the teachings now primarily associated with your wife. Neither Tim nor I--nor any other committed biblicist in the area of manhood and womanhood--have the slightest desire to engage Mrs. James when we could and should be facing you.

Further, we know from personal experience how deeply stressful theological battle can be and we would not wish such strain on any woman or any marriage where a man is willing to fight on behalf of his wife.

Perhaps you fear the implications for your job or status within the PCA of taking your wife's place in this debate. Brother, may I gently say, that's the price both of us risk in taking a stand as men.

Finally, if Mrs. James is not in submission to you in these areas, simply say the word and we will leave her to you and speak no more.

Sincerely in Christ,

David Bayly