Dive into the topic of women preachers in the Bible. Explore Scripture, examples, and perspectives on women’s roles in ministry.
In today’s world, discussions about the role of women in the church often raise important questions, especially when it comes to the topic of women preachers. Many wonder: What does the Bible say about women preachers?
The debate has been ongoing for centuries, yet a closer examination of Scripture reveals that women have played pivotal roles in both the Old and New Testaments, even serving as preachers and leaders in the early church.
This article aims to explore what the Bible says about women preachers, highlighting key examples of women in ministry, addressing passages that appear to restrict women’s roles, and providing context for understanding those verses.
Women Preachers in the Bible: Old Testament Insights
From the very beginning of the Bible, women have demonstrated spiritual leadership and influence. Although the role of preaching is more commonly seen in the New Testament, the Old Testament provides examples of women who delivered God’s messages to His people and led in extraordinary ways.
One of the most striking examples is Deborah, who was both a prophetess and a judge of Israel. In Judges 4:4-5, we read that Deborah was not only a leader but also a spokesperson for God. She gave prophetic words, commanded military leaders, and even led Israel to victory against its enemies. Her role as a spiritual leader was undeniable. As a prophetess, Deborah served as a “preacher” of sorts, delivering God’s word with authority. Her story is a testament to the fact that God calls and equips women to lead His people.
Another powerful example is Huldah, a prophetess during the reign of King Josiah. When the Book of the Law was discovered in the temple, the king sent his officials to inquire of the Lord through Huldah (2 Kings 22:14-20). She prophesied judgment but also affirmed that Josiah’s repentance would bring mercy to Israel. Huldah’s authority as a prophetess illustrates that women were entrusted with divine revelation and played a role in shaping the spiritual direction of the nation.
These examples from the Old Testament lay the foundation for understanding that women were called by God to serve in leadership roles, including preaching and teaching His Word.
Woman Preacher in the Bible: New Testament Examples
The New Testament also provides significant evidence of women serving as preachers and leaders in the early church.
One of the most notable examples is Priscilla, who, along with her husband Aquila, was instrumental in teaching and spreading the gospel. In Acts 18:24-26, Priscilla and Aquila encountered Apollos, a gifted preacher who only had partial knowledge of the gospel. Together, they “explained to him the way of God more accurately.”
While this passage shows the partnership between Priscilla and Aquila, it is noteworthy that Priscilla is mentioned first, which may indicate that she played a leading role in this teaching moment.
Priscilla’s ministry challenges the notion that women cannot preach or teach in the church. As a powerful example of a woman preacher, she demonstrates that spiritual gifts are not confined by gender.
She didn’t merely support her husband’s ministry; she actively participated in teaching and correcting those who needed to grow in their understanding of the gospel. Her story demonstrates that God equips women to teach, preach, and lead in the church.
The Bible names a number of women who led through the power of the Holy Spirit. Phoebe is another influential woman in the New Testament. In Romans 16:1-2, Paul commends Phoebe as a servant/deacon (diakonos) of the church in Cenchrea.
Paul entrusts her to deliver his letter to the Romans, a significant responsibility, showing her important leadership role in the early church. Some scholars believe Phoebe as a deaconess, was responsible for preaching and leading in the congregation. In any case, Phoebe’s role in the spread of Paul’s letters emphasizes the influence of women in ministry.
In addition, Mary Magdalene is often referred to as the first evangelist of the resurrection. After Jesus rose from the dead, He appeared to Mary first and instructed her to “go to My brethren and say to them, ‘I ascend to My Father and your Father, and My God and your God’” (John 20:17).
Mary obeyed and shared the news of Jesus’ resurrection with the disciples. Her role in proclaiming the most pivotal event in Christian history highlights that women were not only allowed but were chosen to preach the gospel.
Theological Foundation for Women in the Bible
In light of these examples, it is important to understand the theological foundation that supports women preachers.
Galatians 3:28 declares, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
This verse underscores the equality of all believers in the body of Christ. In the new covenant established by Christ, gender distinctions no longer limit one’s ability to serve and lead in the body of Christ. This verse is central to understanding the equality of men and women in ministry roles, as it emphasizes the unity and equality of all believers in Christ.
In the new covenant, established through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the distinctions of race, class, and gender are no longer barriers to serving in God’s kingdom. The gifts of the Spirit are poured out on both men and women, as prophesied in Joel 2:28-29 and fulfilled in Acts 2:17-18, where Peter declares, “your sons and your daughters shall prophesy.”
The outpouring of the Holy Spirit enables both men and women to participate fully in ministry.
Paul’s Instructions on Women and the Context of the Synagogue
When exploring what the Bible says about women preachers, it is crucial to address passages that seem to restrict women’s roles in the church.
For instance, in 1 Corinthians 14:34-35, Paul writes, “The women are to keep silent in the churches; for they are not permitted to speak, but are to subject themselves, just as the Law also says. If they desire to learn anything, let them ask their own husbands at home.”
To better understand Paul’s instructions regarding women not speaking in church, it is important to consider the context of the early Christian gatherings, which were influenced by the practices of the Jewish synagogue.
In the first century, women were typically segregated from men in synagogues and were not permitted to engage in public discourse. This cultural norm carried over into the early church, where maintaining order during worship was a priority.
The synagogue setting influenced early Christian gatherings, where women’s roles were still constrained by cultural norms. Additionally, many early Christians came from a Jewish background and were accustomed to such synagogue practices.
When Paul wrote to the Corinthians, the early church was dealing with significant disorder during worship services, where people were speaking over one another and creating confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33).
Paul’s instruction for women to remain silent was likely a specific command addressing the chaotic situation in Corinth, rather than a universal prohibition against women speaking in church. His concern was for order and clarity during worship.
Then also in 1 Timothy 2:11-12, Paul writes, “Let a woman quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness. But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet.”
This passage must also be interpreted in light of other Scripture, the cultural norms of the time, and the specific issues facing the Ephesian church, such as the influence of false teachers and unqualified individuals trying to assume teaching roles.
It was likely intended as a temporary corrective measure rather than an eternal ban on women in leadership or teaching roles.
It is clear from the broader scriptural narrative that women were called to serve in significant spiritual and teaching capacities, such as Priscilla and Phoebe.
Therefore, these specific restrictions should be seen in their cultural context rather than as universal commands applicable to all times and places.
It is also important to note that Paul commends women such as Priscilla, Phoebe, and Junia1 (Romans 16:7) for their leadership and ministry, showing that his prohibitions were not meant to suppress all forms of female leadership.
Instead, Paul’s goal was to ensure that the church functioned in an orderly manner and that teaching was carried out by those qualified and equipped to do so.
Concluding Thoughts: Embracing the Gifts of Women Preachers
When we examine the question of what does the Bible says about women preachers, it becomes clear that God has consistently used women to deliver His message and lead His people. From Deborah and Huldah in the Old Testament to Priscilla, Phoebe, and Mary Magdalene in the New Testament, women have played crucial roles in proclaiming God’s truth and advancing the gospel.
The Scriptures, particularly Galatians 3:28, affirm that in Christ, there is no distinction between male and female. The Holy Spirit equips both men and women for ministry, and the gifts of teaching, preaching, and leadership are not limited by gender.
While certain passages seem to restrict women’s roles, a closer examination of the cultural and situational contexts reveals that these instructions were likely addressing specific issues rather than establishing universal rules.
As the church continues to grow and reflect the unity of the body of Christ, it is essential to recognize and embrace the contributions of women preachers. God’s calling transcends gender, and the examples of women in the Bible demonstrate that their voices and leadership are vital to the mission of the church.
Let us honor the spiritual gifts God has given to all His children and encourage both men and women to fulfill their divine calling in proclaiming the gospel to the world.
Looking for more inspiration? Be sure to check out more of my articles for deeper insights into faith, biblical teachings, and spiritual growth. Let’s continue this journey together!
Related Resources:
- What is God’s Purpose For My Life?
- What is the Five-Fold Ministry in the Bible?
- The Power & Purpose of a Woman in the Bible
- What is the Baptism of the Holy Spirit? & A Prayer to Receive!
- Theological and historical evidence points to Junia being a female name. ↩︎
