Resources:
Elyse Fitzpatrick's website
Elyse's Books
Leslie's Website
Leslie's Quick Start Guide

In this episode, Leslie Vernick talks with Elyse Fitzpatrick the author of over 25 books on Christian living. Elyse holds a master's degree in biblical counseling from Trinity Theological Seminary and is a popular conference speaker and grandmother to six.

Discussing 'Worthy: Celebrating the Value of Women':

Overview of Elyse's book 'Worthy.'
The book celebrates the value of women in the church and society.
The inspiration behind writing 'Worthy.'

Writing and Reception:

Elyse's experiences around 2019-2020 that led to writing the book.
Conversation with Paul Tripp and reading a blog post by Eric Shoemaker.
The unexpected pushback received from various groups, including church leaders.

Handling Pushback:

The surprising amount of resistance to the book's message.
Criticisms, including the apparent lack of focus on traditional gender roles.
Shock and discouragement faced, even being disinvited from conferences and losing publishing contracts.

The Biblical Value of Women:

Discussion on the value of women as depicted in the Bible.
Examples such as Hagar and the significance of her story in Genesis.

Cultural and Church Challenges:

Examination of the church’s fear of women having power.
The issue of power dynamics and the misuse of spiritual teachings to control.

Lessons from the Bible:

Biblical accounts demonstrating God's use and valuing of women.
Stories of women like Eve, Hagar, and Mary of Bethany.

Women as Co-laborers in Faith:

The importance of recognizing women as equal contributors to the faith.
Challenges women face in being seen as more than just traditional roles.

Jesus' Treatment of Women:

Examples from the New Testament showing Jesus' respect and care for women.
Stories of Jesus protecting and valuing women.

Resistance and Reconciliation:

Different responses to sin and accountability between David and Saul.
Importance of genuine repentance and the recognition of women's value in the community.