When I started my podcast, I based my decision of who to invite on my show often by a book I read. Such was the case with Carolyn Custis James. I was thrilled when she agreed to be my first featured expert. I became a fan when I read her book, Half the Church: Recapturing God’s Global Vision for Women.

A Must-Read for Women and Men Alike

Carolyn Custis James' Half the Church is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of God’s vision for women within the church and the world. With a deeply motivational and scholarly approach, James challenges long-held beliefs about women’s roles, arguing that they extend far beyond marriage and motherhood. Her examination of the Hebrew term ezer redefines the role of women—not as mere helpers to men, but as essential contributors to God’s kingdom.

Breaking Free from Traditional Constraints

One of the most striking aspects of this book is how it encourages single women to find purpose in serving God outside of marriage and motherhood. James boldly addresses the ways in which the church has often limited women’s worth to their familial roles, leaving many feeling sidelined once they are no longer raising children or if they never marry at all. She calls readers to embrace their full potential, reminding them that women are half the church and should be fully engaged in its mission.

A Call to Address Global Injustice

Beyond individual purpose, Half the Church highlights the suffering of women worldwide, from oppression and discrimination to violence and injustice. James critiques the church’s passive stance on these issues, urging believers to take an active role in fighting for women’s rights and dignity across the globe. Her message is clear: the church cannot afford to ignore these pressing concerns, as women’s struggles are central to God’s mission of justice and restoration.

A Fresh Theological Perspective

Rather than taking a firm stance on the complementarian vs. egalitarian debate, James instead focuses on God’s original design for men and women to work in unity. She draws parallels between this oneness and the Trinitarian relationship, offering a compelling argument for mutual partnership rather than hierarchy. This approach makes her book accessible and relevant to readers on both sides of the theological spectrum.

Transformational and Inspiring

James’ writing is both scholarly and deeply personal, making this book a transformative read. It challenges outdated perspectives, calls for action, and equips women to step into their God-given purpose with confidence. As someone who has read many books on women in the church, I can confidently say that this one stands out as a must-read for both women and men.

Final Thoughts: Read, Be Inspired, and Act

Half the Church is more than just a book—it is a call to action. Whether single, married, young, or old, women will find encouragement and purpose within its pages. Men, too, will benefit from reading it, gaining a deeper understanding of the value and role of women in God’s kingdom. If you are looking for a book that will challenge, inspire, and equip you, this is the one. Read it. Be inspired. Love. Act.

To enjoy the episode on the Your Radical Truth Podcast, go to https://yourradicaltruth.com/001-carolyn-custis-james/