The Third Millennium presents unprecedented opportunities and challenges to capitalism as a global economic system. Technological advances, governmental policies, energy supply, ecological concerns, and a burgeoning world population are among the issues to be addressed by private enterprise in holistic and humanitarian ways. No longer can these issues be treated in isolation inasmuch as they are becoming increasingly interdependent.

As Rogers shows, in industrialized nations, with their aging and stabilizing populations, the marketplace and the working environment are changing, requiring new approaches to work and leisure. In sharp contrast, populations in the Third World are growing rapidly and represent vast potential new markets for the private sector. Simultaneously, enormous social, health, and political problems abound in many Third World countries that may be addressed by private sector and governmental initiatives. Economic expansion in Third World nations will require great expansion of electric and other energy systems, resulting in increased environmental degradation unless major preventive measures are taken. Continued growth of energy systems in industrialized nations will require the introduction of increased pollution controls in the near future. A definitive transition from dependence on fossil fuels to nonpolluting renewable energy sources should be a major global priority. Environmental protection efforts, previously confined to major industrialized nations, should become a high priority issue on a global basis. Global climate change and other air pollution, desertification, deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and water pollution are extending into formerly pristine areas, forcing international approaches to mitigation. A challenging assessment for business officers, policy analysts, and economists involved with corporate strategy and economic development.

The status of women in Christianity has waxed and waned countless times over the centuries. During the early history of Israel, several women had roles as national and spiritual leaders. Later came the age of patriarchs with its male dominance and relegation of women to subservient status. Despite the male-dominated religious system of the time, Rogers sees Christ as elevating the status of women in various ways. Today, however, he examines how Christianity has failed to meet its responsibilities to advance the roles of women.

Rogers explores the current and historical status and roles of women as providers and recipients of Christian ministries. The burgeoning needs of women in society are examined along with the obstacles and opportunities for women as vocational ministers of the Gospel. Primarily of interest to pastors/ministers, seminary professors, and lay leaders in churches, Bible study teachers, and members of churches and Bible study group/classes.