The role of women in ministry is often debated, but what does the Bible say about it? Today, we’ll explore Scripture to better understand God’s design for women in preaching and leadership roles in the church.
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What Does The Bible Say About Women Being Preachers
1 Timothy 2:12
“I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet.”
This verse has often been interpreted as restricting women from preaching or teaching in church settings. It suggests that women should not assume authoritative roles over men. However, it is vital to understand this verse in its cultural and historical context. It is possible to interpret this verse as specific to Timothy’s situation and not a universal prohibition against women preachers.
It is essential to consider other passages in the Bible that highlight women’s valuable roles in ministry, such as the example of Priscilla, who taught alongside her husband Aquila (Acts 18:26). Ultimately, the interpretation of women in preaching roles varies within different denominations and churches, recognizing the broader themes of equality and the gifts of the Spirit.
Galatians 3:28
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
This verse emphasizes the essential unity of all believers in Christ, regardless of gender or any other social distinction. In the context of women in preaching, this verse affirms the equal worth and value of both men and women in Christ. It challenges any interpretation that would limit or exclude women from leadership roles within the church.
While interpretation and practice may differ among Christian traditions, it is crucial to approach this topic with a spirit of unity, love, and respect. Acknowledging the full inclusion of women in preaching ministries aligns with the biblical principle of equality and honors the gifts and calling of all believers.
Romans 16:1-2
“I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae. I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of his people and to give her any help she may need from you, for she has been the benefactor of many people, including me.”
This passage introduces Phoebe as a deacon of the early church, highlighting her significant role and service. Although her specific teaching activities are not detailed, her commendation as a leader within the church underscores the broader biblical principle of women actively participating in ministry.
Phoebe’s mention challenges the notion that women are restricted from leadership positions or teaching roles in the church. It affirms that women, like men, can play important roles in serving, supporting, and ministering to others within the Christian community.
Acts 2:17-18
“‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy.'”
This verse, quoting the prophet Joel, speaks about the coming of the Holy Spirit and the role of all believers, both men and women, in prophesying. It highlights the inclusive nature of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, granting spiritual gifts and abilities to all, regardless of gender.
While prophesying may differ in its exact function from preaching, this passage demonstrates that women, too, have a role in sharing God’s message and ministering to others. It reinforces the idea that women can play a vital role in teaching and proclaiming the Word of God.
Luke 8:1-3
“After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.”
This passage highlights the active participation of women in Jesus’ ministry. It mentions several women who traveled with Jesus, supported his ministry financially, and were witnesses to his teaching and miracles.
While this verse does not explicitly mention women preaching, it showcases their integral role in spreading the good news and supporting Jesus’ ministry. It challenges any notion that women should be confined to mere observers or passive participants in the work of God.
Acts 18:26
“He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.”
This verse depicts Priscilla, along with her husband Aquila, instructing and mentoring Apollos, a well-known preacher, in the ways of God. Priscilla’s active involvement in teaching and correcting Apollos highlights her significant role in proclaiming the truth of the Gospel.
Priscilla’s example challenges any restrictive interpretations regarding women in preaching or leadership roles. It affirms the valuable skills and insights that women bring to the ministry and encourages their active involvement in teaching and mentoring others in the faith.
Acts 9:36
“In Joppa, there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor.”
This verse introduces Tabitha, a woman described as a disciple who was known for her acts of kindness and assistance to the less fortunate. Although it does not explicitly mention her preaching, her example of serving and helping others underscores the broad range of ministries women can engage in.
Tabitha’s story suggests that women’s impact in ministry extends beyond the pulpit and can be seen through their acts of compassion, hospitality, and service. It reminds us that preaching is not the only way to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Acts 21:8-9
“Leaving the next day, we reached Caesarea and stayed at the house of Philip the evangelist, one of the Seven. He had four unmarried daughters who prophesied.”
This passage mentions Philip, an evangelist, and his four daughters who prophesied. Although the specific nature of their prophecies is not detailed, their inclusion emphasizes the active role of women in proclaiming God’s message.
These women’s prophetic gifting challenges any notion that women should be excluded from sharing God’s word or assuming leadership roles within the church. It reinforces the idea that God gifts both men and women, empowering them to contribute to the ministry and the building up of the body of Christ.
Romans 16:7
“Greet Andronicus and Junia, my fellow Jews who have been in prison with me. They are outstanding among the apostles, and they were in Christ before I was.”
In this verse, Paul mentions Junia as an outstanding apostle. This recognition highlights Junia as a highly respected and influential figure within the early Christian community.
The mention of Junia challenges any notion that women cannot hold positions of authority or leadership within the Church. It affirms that women, like Andronicus and Junia, can play significant roles in spreading the gospel and contributing to the growth and development of the Christian faith.
Psalm 68:11
“The Lord announces the word, and the women who proclaim it are a mighty throng:”
This verse recognizes that women have a powerful voice in proclaiming the word of the Lord. It acknowledges that they, too, have an important role in sharing the message of God’s salvation and love.
The idea that women can proclaim the word of God reinforces their capability to preach and teach, both within the church and beyond. It encourages the inclusion and recognition of women’s contributions in spreading the gospel and advancing the kingdom of God.
Philippians 4:3
“Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.”
In this verse, Paul acknowledges the active involvement of women in advancing the cause of the gospel. He affirms their partnership in his ministry and urges his fellow believers to support and assist these women.
This verse underscores women’s important role in preaching and teaching, as they contend for the gospel alongside men. It highlights the value of their contributions and emphasizes the need for unity and cooperation in sharing the message of Christ.
1 Corinthians 11:5
“But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head—it is the same as having her head shaved.”
This verse acknowledges that women have the ability to pray and prophesy. It addresses the appropriate decorum for women when engaging in these activities, encouraging them to cover their heads as a sign of respect and submission.
The inclusion of women in the context of praying and prophesying recognizes their involvement in the spiritual life of the church. It suggests that women have a place in sharing God’s word and communicating with Him through prayer.
Proverbs 31:26-27
“She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.”
This passage celebrates the wisdom and instruction that a virtuous woman possesses. It acknowledges her vocal and active role in guiding and teaching others within the household.
Although this verse specifically refers to the domestic sphere, it recognizes the powerful impact women can have through their words and teaching. It affirms their potential to influence and guide others, both within the private and public realms.
Luke 2:36-38
“There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.”
This passage introduces Anna, a prophetess who played a significant role within the temple. Her devotion, fasting, and prayer are noted, along with her proclamation of God’s redemption through Jesus.
Anna’s example challenges any notion that women’s spiritual authority is limited. It highlights their ability to comprehend and communicate spiritual truths, proclaiming the message of salvation to others. It affirms the role of women as spiritual leaders and exhorters within the community of believers.
Acts 22:14-15
“Then he said: ‘The God of our ancestors has chosen you to know his will and to see the Righteous One and to hear words from his mouth. You will be his witness to all people of what you have seen and heard.”
In this verse, Ananias speaks to the newly converted Paul, emphasizing his call to be a witness of Christ’s teachings and actions. This commission applies not only to Paul but also to every believer, regardless of gender.
By including women in the general call to be witnesses, this verse affirms their role in proclaiming the message of Jesus. It acknowledges their duty to share what they have experienced and heard from the Lord, encouraging their active participation in spreading the good news.
Proverbs 31:8-9
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”
This passage calls for advocating for those in need and championing justice on their behalf. It encourages a bold and outspoken stance in speaking up for others, including the disadvantaged and oppressed.
While this verse is not explicitly about women preachers, it affirms the importance of women using their voices and influence to defend and speak out for justice. It recognizes their capability to address social issues and inspire change through their words and actions.
Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
In the Great Commission, Jesus instructs His disciples to go and make disciples of all nations. The command encompasses teaching them to obey everything Jesus had commanded.
This commission is not gender-specific, and therefore, both men and women are called to participate in preaching, teaching, and discipleship. It affirms the shared responsibility of all believers, irrespective of gender, to spread the gospel and make disciples.
1 Corinthians 14:34-35
“Women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak but must be in submission, as the law says. If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church.”
This verse has been widely debated and has various interpretations regarding the extent of its application. Some view it as an instruction specific to the Corinthian church or cultural context, while others see it as binding for all churches.
Nonetheless, it is essential to acknowledge that this verse does not negate the presence of women in teaching or leadership roles elsewhere in the Bible. It is crucial to consider the broader biblical framework of the value and participation of women in ministry when interpreting this passage.
1 Corinthians 14:5
“I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be edified.”
While this verse does not directly address the role of women, it does convey the importance of prophesying and its value in edifying the church. Prophecy involves speaking under divine inspiration, proclaiming God’s word, and strengthening the faith of others.
Recognizing the significance of prophecy encourages an inclusive perspective on women’s roles in preaching and teaching. It suggests that women, like men, can play a vital part in sharing God’s message and building up the body of Christ through their words and insights.
Exodus 15:20-21
“Then Miriam the prophet, Aaron’s sister, took a timbrel in her hand, and all the women followed her, with timbrels and dancing. Miriam sang to them: ‘Sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted. Both horse and driver he has hurled into the sea.'”
This passage portrays Miriam, the sister of Moses and Aaron, as a prophetess leading the women in a song of praise and worship after God’s deliverance from Egypt.
Miriam’s role as a prophetess demonstrates that women have historically held leadership positions within the community of faith. It affirms their ability to speak forth the words of God and lead others in worship, reinforcing the idea that women can participate actively in preaching and praising God.
Colossians 3:16
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”
This verse encourages believers to let the message of Christ dwell richly within them, leading to teaching, admonishing, and praising God in various forms.
While it does not single out women specifically, it highlights the shared responsibility of all believers, regardless of gender, to teach and encourage one another through the Word of God. It affirms the capacity of women to contribute to the teaching and edification of the church through their wisdom and spiritual insights.
Judges 4:4-5
“Now Deborah, a prophet, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time. She held court under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites went up to her to have their disputes decided.”
This passage introduces Deborah, a prophetess and judge in Israel during a challenging time. It states that the Israelites came to her for guidance and legal decisions.
Deborah’s leadership as a judge reinforces the idea that God can raise up women for positions of authority and influence. Her role challenges any limitations placed on women in preaching or teaching within the church and serves as an example of God using women to lead and guide His people.