Robert,

If you will recall, it was Paul's testimony about the working of the Holy Spirit that swayed the decision of the Jerusalem Council toward accepting taking the Gospel to the gentiles and accepting them into the faith. Likewise, this topic will remain unsettled until people are willing to recognize the working of the Holy Spirit. The early church could have split over accepting gentiles into the faith, the church today could see that result unless we actively seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to know what God wants us to do. Because I have seen women ministering effectively in the power of the Holy Spirit, I support the ordination of women. At the same time, if someone can show me the clear leading of the Holy Spirit to the contrary, then we must consider it. But we must not confuse the strong opinions of those who are defending tribal or spiritual tradition for the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Rather, we must reject that view until God clearly shows otherwise.