In recent years, a controversial feminist movement known as “4B” has gained traction, first in South Korea and later spreading to other countries, including the United States. As Christians, it’s crucial to understand this movement, its implications, and how it aligns (or doesn’t) with biblical values. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the 4B movement and offer a Christian perspective on its principles and potential consequences.
What is the 4B Movement?
The 4B movement originated in South Korea as a response to perceived misogyny and oppression within society. The name “4B” refers to four key tenets that adherents pledge to follow:
- No dating men
- No marrying men
- No having children
- No sexual relations with men
Essentially, the movement calls for women to break all ties with what they perceive as a patriarchal system. In South Korea, this has reportedly led to a significant decline in birth rates.
The 4B Movement in the United States
Following recent political events, particularly the 2024 election and the overturning of Roe v. Wade, some women in the United States have adopted and adapted the 4B movement’s principles. In the American context, the movement has taken on additional dimensions, including:
- Calls for women to divorce husbands who don’t share their political views
- Encouraging women to make themselves “unattractive” to men (e.g., by shaving their heads)
- Refusing to give birth to male children
- Pushing for more involvement in pornography and exploring lesbian relationships
Understanding the Motivation Behind 4B
The 4B movement stems from deep-seated anger, fear, and frustration among some women. Key factors contributing to this include:
- Experiences of sexual abuse or assault
- Feelings of marginalization or oppression within societal structures
- Perceived threats to reproductive rights
- Fear of potential violence or mistreatment from men
While these concerns are valid and should be addressed, it’s important to consider whether the 4B movement offers constructive solutions or merely perpetuates division and harm.
A Christian Perspective on the 4B Movement
As Christians, we must approach the 4B movement with compassion, understanding, and biblical wisdom. Here are several key points to consider:
1. The Value of Both Genders
Scripture teaches that both men and women are created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27). The 4B movement’s wholesale rejection of men goes against this fundamental truth and God’s design for human relationships.
2. The Importance of Forgiveness and Reconciliation
While acknowledging the pain and injustice many women have experienced, Christians are called to forgiveness and reconciliation rather than division and retribution (Matthew 6:14-15, 2 Corinthians 5:18-19).
3. The Sanctity of Marriage and Family
The Bible upholds the importance of marriage and family (Genesis 2:24, Ephesians 5:31-33). The 4B movement’s rejection of these institutions contradicts God’s plan for human flourishing.
4. The Value of Children and Motherhood
Scripture consistently portrays children as a blessing and motherhood as a high calling (Psalm 127:3-5, Proverbs 31:28-29). The 4B movement’s stance against having children goes against this biblical perspective.
5. Sexual Purity and God’s Design for Intimacy
While the 4B movement rightly criticizes promiscuity, its promotion of pornography and same-sex relationships contradicts biblical teaching on sexuality (1 Corinthians 6:18-20, Romans 1:26-27).
6. The Danger of Bitterness and Unforgiveness
The Bible warns against allowing bitterness to take root in our hearts (Hebrews 12:15). The 4B movement’s anger-driven approach risks fostering long-term bitterness and resentment.
Addressing Legitimate Concerns About the 4B Movement
While the 4B movement’s solutions are problematic from a Christian perspective, it’s crucial to acknowledge and address the legitimate concerns that have fueled its growth:
1. Combating Misogyny and Abuse
The church must take a strong stance against all forms of misogyny, abuse, and oppression of women, both within its walls and in society at large.
2. Promoting True Biblical Masculinity and Femininity
Christians should work to dispel misconceptions about biblical gender roles, emphasizing mutual respect, love, and service rather than domination or oppression.
3. Empowering Women in the Church and Society
The church should actively support and empower women to use their God-given gifts and abilities in all areas of life, including leadership roles where appropriate.
4. Addressing Systemic Injustices
Christians should be at the forefront of efforts to address systemic injustices that disproportionately affect women, such as wage disparities and lack of support for working mothers.
A Better Way Forward
Instead of embracing the divisive and destructive principles of the 4B movement, Christians can offer a more positive and constructive approach:
1. Promoting Healthy Relationships
Encourage and model healthy, God-honoring relationships between men and women, both in marriage and in platonic friendships.
2. Fostering Open Dialogue
Create safe spaces for women to share their experiences, concerns, and fears, and work together to find biblical solutions.
3. Emphasizing the Value of Both Genders
Teach and demonstrate that both men and women have equal value and dignity in God’s eyes, with complementary roles in His plan.
4. Supporting Victims of Abuse
Provide compassionate support and resources for women who have experienced abuse or oppression, helping them find healing and restoration in Christ.
5. Promoting Biblical Sexuality
Teach God’s design for sexuality within the context of marriage, emphasizing purity, mutual respect, and intimacy as He intended.
6. Encouraging Forgiveness and Healing
While acknowledging the pain of past hurts, guide women (and men) towards forgiveness and healing through the power of the Gospel.
Conclusion
The 4B movement represents a cry of pain and frustration from women who feel marginalized, threatened, or oppressed. As Christians, we must respond with compassion, understanding, and biblical wisdom. While rejecting the movement’s destructive principles, we can address the underlying issues with God’s love and truth, offering a better way forward that honors both men and women as bearers of His image.
By promoting healthy relationships, addressing legitimate concerns, and pointing to the healing and restoration found in Christ, the church can offer hope and solutions that far surpass the limited and ultimately harmful approach of the 4B movement. In doing so, we can work towards a society where both men and women flourish according to God’s design, finding true empowerment, value, and purpose in Him.
