This novel gave me a lot to think about. The history of the witch hunts is not so long ago and it still goes on in many countries today, just with a different face and name.
In this novel a double murder takes place in a small German village in 1538. The priest decides to call in an Inquisitor, and pardon my language, but then all hell breaks loose. A witch hunt pursues and many innocents are accused.
All women.
As it was taught, women, through Eve, were the source of all evil and temptation.
And someone must pay for the sins committed by men, who are believed to be bewitched by women.
So the witch hunt begins.
In the authors afterwards under the subtitle 'Gender Roles and the Church' she writes:
"According to medieval religious belief, evil existed outside of men and inside of women. This theory was the backbone of witch hunts. When the Age of Enlightenment swept through Europe, these theories about witchcraft and women's nature were discredited - and the church lost its credibility too. This is why teaching about gender differences and gender roles must be undertaken with extreme care and extreme attention to the Scriptures. We must be careful never to put words into God's mouth.
The reality is that no one understands the complete truth about men and women, our chemistry together, and how each gender is a unique reflection of the divine nature of God. But we do know this - when we finally see God's face in heaven, we will fully understand ourselves, each other, and God."
"Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror, then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known." 1 Cor. 13:12
In God's eyes men and women are equal. Equally sinful, equally offered the gift of grace.
All those who come to Him are set free in Him. We do not have to pay for our own sins, nor someone pay for anothers sins. Christ paid the price for us all. This is a truth that many medieval people did not understand or know because the Word of God was keep hidden from them. And that's when historically, superstition has abounded.
Unfortunately, we still see this today in many countries around the world and this is why it is so important we get Bibles to them.
To share the Truth. The truth that they are beloved by God...equally.
I'm sharing two organizations which not only distribute Bibles to people who don't have a way to get one, but also support and help women who have been persecuted... for just being women.
You can help and make a difference.
Firstly, is Open Doors an organization that was started by Brother Andrew of Holland. you can read my thoughts on his book 'God's Smuggler' HERE. Open Doors is an amazing organization that has brought many Bibles to those who may never have had a chance to read one otherwise.
Open Doors International
Secondly, is The Voice of the Martyrs an organization that helps the persecuted church throughout the world. This organization was started by Richard Wurmbrand, a Romanian pastor who was persecuted for speaking out against Communism in the 1960's. The Voice of the Martyrs also hands out Bibles as well as stands up for women.
The Voice of the Martyrs
These kinds of books are not meant to be read and forgotten. They are meant to urge us on to do something. So check out these sites and see what they are doing to help. You may find yourself called to help too. : )
Buy it HERE on Amazon
I like your assessment of the book , These kinds of books are not meant to be read and forgotten. They are meant to urge us on to do something. I just recently read one that I could put in that category, a true story, one that gives freedom. I will have to check this one out, Always on the look for books for my grand daughter.
ReplyDeleteI'm adding this to my to-read pile. :-) Glad to see VOM on your list - such an excellent ministry!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a great book! Happy to be your neighbor on the #RaRaLinkup today!!
ReplyDeleteI love how you took this fiction book and relayed your thoughts about it through scripture!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a great mix of history and Christianity! I like what the author has to say about meeting God in heaven and how then, we will fully understand and see ourselves as He sees us! Your neighbor at #TellHisStory and #threewordWednesday.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for your evaluation of this book. I appreciate a good review from an informed reader.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a really great book, I will most definitely have to check it out! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI would have never known about this book had I not read your post. It sounds like a really interesting read. Sharing ministries that are working today brings a modern-day relevance to this story set in the 1500's. Visiting you from #ThreeWordWed.
ReplyDeleteOh wow, It's an intriguing read.
ReplyDeleteWow...the statement about how only sin resided in women when the Bible clearly states all (men and women) have sinned...thanks for a thoughtful review.
ReplyDeleteThanks ladies for stopping by! If you get a chance to read this novel I hope it you enjoy the intiging read. : )
ReplyDeleteWonderful review again Cathy, thank you so much for sharing it with #theCozyReadingSpot It is important that we not just read these books but act. you are so right
ReplyDeleteMarissa
"The reality is that no one understands the complete truth about men and women, our chemistry together, and how each gender is a unique reflection of the divine nature of God. But we do know this - when we finally see God's face in heaven, we will fully understand ourselves, each other, and God." - What a powerful thought for the issues that trouble us these days!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for sharing this extremely thoughtful review at Booknificent Thursday this week!
Tina