Patriarchy (the male domination of women) is an oppressive cultural norm with a history that predates Christianity. Fortunately, it is fading from our global community. Unfortunately, it persists in the religious traditions of some corners of the institutional church. This book examines how patriarchy became enshrined in church tradition, both Catholic and Protestant. It also explores why male domination continues to oppress women in the church today. It concludes by offering women and men an egalitarian alternative to patriarchy, best exemplified by the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. In this second edition of the book, the author delves more deeply into issues related to Bible translation and the cultural context of the New Testament church.