Summary Points from the Series of Devotions

1. Recognise gender differences are immutable and God – given gifts and so an object of thanks and praise.

2. These differences mirror the diversity in the trinity and exist for mutual complementarity and intimacy.  “Otherness” is a realm of blessing.

3. This realm was discarded in the Fall because humanity abandoned its God – given roles vertically and horizontally.

4. What was given by God in creation and lost in the Fall is not immediately accessible to humanity, e.g. by secular therapies as all are influenced by the power of evil and idolatry.

5. True intimacy is restored in all its dimensions by Jesus, who alone is completely faithful relationally to the Father and in all his human relationships.

6. At the cross Jesus takes into himself the fullness of relational breakdown and destroys its power; this is because he overcomes shame, guilt and fear.

7. Jesus in his resurrection, ascension and the gift of the Spirit restores true relationality to humanity.  This is particularly so in that the church is his bride (this includes men).  All the principles of communication, intimacy, authority and subordination are learned by relating to Christ who lives within the believer.

8. In Jesus all culture and gender stereotypes are broken down.

9. None of the above becomes real without the personal surrender of the human heart in prayer to God.