Women and the Bible

Women and the Bible

Women, Work and Marriage: One Body Equal

Introduction

The Bible refers to women needing to “submit” to their husbands (Colossians 3:18, Ephesians 5:22, 1 Peter 3:1, Titus 2:5). The Bible also refers to wives as the “weaker” vessel (1 Peter 3:7) and a husband ruling over his wife (Genesis 3:16). Passages such as these have been used as a way of treating women as inferior and unfairly. But is this the way God thinks of women? No

A husband will rule over his wife (men do not rule over women)

Genesis 3:16 says, “Your desire will be for your husband, and he will rule over you”. This is not a means for a husband to dominate his wife and treat her inferior. If we look at Genesis 1:27-28, God says “…male and female He created them. God blessed them; and God said to them, “rule over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the sky and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”. This means we (both men and women) are to care and look after the animals God has blessed us with. Likewise, a husband is to care and look after his wife that God has blessed him with. We must also understand that Genesis 3:16 is concerning marriage. i.e. A husband will rule over his wife (have authority over his wife), but this is not the same as man ruling over woman (men having authority over women in society) This is because God has given both man and woman authority to rule over His creation, as mentioned in Genesis 1:27-28

Women are shorter than Men

Some people have suggested that God deliberately created women shorter/smaller than men as a physical reminder of a woman’s submission to men and natural order of things (they point out that many female animals such as mammals are smaller than male animals, a way of distinguishing the natural order of male dominance over female). Biologically speaking, women are shorter than men because they develop earlier than men/stop growing earlier than men. However, the reason why women develop earlier than men is to allow them to have children at a young age (more time to have children). Therefore, the reason why women are shorter than men is simply due to their bodies developing earlier in order to have children – it has nothing to do with a natural order. So whether there is any spiritual significance to this is simply speculation and should not be used as a means to keep women under men. Furthermore, many female animals are actually larger than men. Therefore, to use the natural order of animals as a way of keeping women under men is a fallible argument.

A husband is the head of his wife (man is not head of women)

Ephesians 5:23 refers to a husband as the “head of his wife”. But it goes on by referring to Jesus as the “head of the Church” and how a husband is to love his wife in the same way Christ loves the Church, that is, He gave Himself up for the Church (Ephesians 5:24-25, see also 1 Corinthians 11:3). It is comparing how a husband and a wife should act in a similar way as Jesus and the Church. Jesus does not treat the Church as inferior. Likewise, a husband must not treat his wife as inferior. Ephesians 5:28-29 refers to husbands needing to love their wife as his own body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 refers to our bodies as a temple for God and needs to be kept holy. Thus, a husband is to treat his wife as holy and with respect (Colossians 3:19, 1 Peter 3:7). We must also understand that Ephesians 5:23 concerning marriage. i.e. A husband is the head of his wife (have authority over his wife), but this is not the same as man being the head of woman (men having authority over women in society)

The idea of a husband as the head of his wife simply means this; both are united as one flesh and make decisions together (two halves of a whole working together as one flesh). But if, for some reason, they cannot make a mutual agreement, then ultimately, the husband has the final verdict (a way to settle a specific matter/prevent continuous disagreement, and keep order in the marriage). But at the same time, this does not mean a husband can abuse his headship by controlling his wife like a dictator.

A wife submits to her husband (women do not submit to men)

The Bible refers to wives needing to “submit” to their husbands (Colossians 3:18, Ephesians 5:22, 1 Peter 3:1, Titus 2:5). This seems to suggest that women are inferior to men. However, these passages are in context to marriage, not leadership roles in the workforce (husband and wife – two halves of a whole working together as one flesh). They are referring to a wife being under her husband, not women being under men. However, this is not a means for a husband to dominate his wife and treat her inferior. The word, submit in Greek is hypotassō and means to arrange under. A wife needs to be under her husband. But this is no different than people needing to “submit” to elders (1 Peter 5:5) or “submit” to higher authorities (1 Peter 2:13) or “submit” to masters (1 Peter 2:18) or “submit” to God (James 4:7) or “submit” to Christ (Ephesians 5:24) or “submit” to one another (Ephesians 5:21) Furthermore, Colossians 3:19 continues by saying, “Husbands love your wives and do not be harsh with them”. And Ephesians 5:22 says “Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord.” (a wife submits to her husband in the same way she submits to Christ)

Women are to be silent in the church

The Bible refers to women needing to “keep silent” in churches (1 Corinthians 14:34, see also 1 Timothy 2:11). This seems to suggest that women are inferior to men. However, the need to keep “silent” is used a few verses earlier for those who speak in tongues, and for those who prophesy. For example, if a person speaks in tongues, but no one can interpret it, then the person who spoke in tongues must “keep silent in the church” (v28). And if someone is prophesying, and another person receives a revelation, then the one who is speaking must “keep silent” (v30). Thus, there are number of people that need to keep “silent” when in church – not just women. Also, Paul approves of women “prophesizing” (1 Corinthians 11:5). So obviously there are cases where even Paul himself permits women to speak and not “keep silent”. We even find a woman named Priscilla who—with her husband Aquila—took a man named Apollos “aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately” after he spoke in a synagogue (Acts 18:24-26, more on this below). Again we can see that there are cases where women speak and not “keep silent”

Woman was created from Man’s rib

Genesis 2:21-23 says God created woman from man’s rib. The woman was not made from the superior part of man (his skull), that she might not be thought to be above him and have power over him. Nor was she made from any inferior part (his feet), as being below him and to be trampled on by him. Instead, the woman was created from man’s ribs to demonstrate that she is equal to him (out of his side) and close to his heart (Hebrew word for rib is tsela and means side). Thus, man and woman are actually the same created being, two halves of a whole If this is not equality, then what is? (the idea that woman was created from mans rib and not any other bone is to indicate the “closeness” of a woman to a man’s heart) Something else to consider. The rib cage surrounds and protects the heart (something that would be essential after sinned entered the world). By creating woman from man’s rib, God is showing just how important a woman is. i.e. The most important organ of the human body is protected by the ribs—without the ribs, the heart will break. Likewise, without a woman to surround and protect man (be there for him), his heart will break (second page of the Bible and we learn that God is a God of romance!).

Husband and Wife are one flesh (equal, different tasks)

Marriage is identified as a man and woman becoming one body (Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:6). 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 refers to the Church as one body working together. Thus, marriage is like the Church; they are one body working together. Each part of the body needs the other part of the body to work and perform together. The eye cannot do what the foot does, and the foot cannot do what the eye does. Both are equally important in order to perform different tasks. Likewise, a husband depends on his wife, and a wife depends on her husband (mutual dependence). They are equal, and perform different responsibilities. For example, a man and a woman (husband and wife) need each other to procreate – both depend on one another (procreation cannot be done alone). Also, 1 Corinthians 11:11-12 says, “in the Lord, neither is woman independent of man, nor is man independent of woman. For as the woman originates from the man, so also the man has his birth through the woman; and all things originate from God”.

Husband yields to wife, wife yields to husband

1 Corinthians 7:4 says, “The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but yields it to his wife”. This would indicate that both the husband and the wife yield to each other (not just the wife).

Woman as a Helper

God created woman for man (Genesis 2:18). Woman is defined as “helper” for man (Genesis 2:18). In context of the passage, Adam names all the birds and animals, “but for Adam there was not found a helper suitable for him” (Genesis 2:20). In other words, naming all the birds and animals was meant to make Adam aware that he was the only creature that had no mate/had no one suitable to bond, communicate or procreate with (e.g. was unable to bond, communicate or procreate with an elephant or rhino etc). Thus, Woman was created to be Man’s mate, partner (a helper, companion) – not some inferior creature. In fact, if anything, the word is implying that Man is in need of Woman (Man requires Woman to procreate). Furthermore, the Hebrew word for help/helper is ‘ezer and means help, succour. It is the same word used to describe God as a help to Man (“He is our help” - Psalm 33:20; “You are my help” - Psalm 70:5; “He is their help” - Psalm 115:9, see also Exodus 18:4; Deuteronomy 33:29). Thus, it is wrong to treat women as inferior because they are a “helper” considering the Bible uses the same word to describe God as someone who is helping Man (the Holy Spirit is also referred to as a Helper; John 14:16; John 14:26; John 15:26; John 16:7; see also Acts 9:31; Romans 8:26-27).

Woman created for Man’s sake

1 Corinthians 11:9 says, “for indeed man was not created for the woman’s sake, but woman for the man’s sake.” This is not degenerating women. The context of this passage is in relation to prayer (v4-5). Since Man (Adam) was created first, he too was the first to speak to God before sin entered the world (Genesis 2:15-17) Therefore, as far as prayer is concerned, there is an order within God’s creation i.e. God created Man (Adam) to have a relationship with Him (the reason Man exists is to have a relationship with God), and then created woman so that Man could have a relationship with her (the reason woman exists is to have a relationship with Man). This does not mean women are unable to pray to God (women were created for the sake of men, hence, not created to have a relationship with God) It simply means that God purposely created Man to have a relationship with Him first and far most (Man’s primary purpose was to have a relationship with God, not woman), where as God created woman to have a relationship with Man and not just God

The same can be said about 1 Corinthians 11:7 which says, “For a man ought not to have his head covered, since he is the image and glory of God; but the woman is the glory of man”. Here we see that man is created and God’s image. However, this does not mean that a woman is not created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27 tells us that male and female were created in God’s image). Instead, when it comes to prayer, there is an order within God’s creation (God purposely created Man to have a relationship with Him first and far most, where as God created woman to have a relationship with Man and not just God)

The courageous women and the cowardly disciples

When Jesus was arrested, the Apostles fled and forsook Jesus (Matthew 26:31,56; Mark 14:27,50; John 16:32). The Apostle Peter denied Jesus three times (Matthew 26:34,69-75; Luke 22:55-62). In fact, to show just how cowardly Peter was, he denied Jesus when questioned by two servant girls (Matthew 26:69-72). After Jesus had died, the Apostles gathered together in a locked room because they were afraid of the Jews (John 20:19,26). This occurred twice (the second time was one week after the Apostles had already seen the resurrected Jesus). Yet it was the women that stood and watched Jesus die (Matthew 27:55; Mark 15:40; Luke 23:27; John 19:25)—not the male disciples (with the exception of one; John 19:26-27). Perhaps this is why the resurrection was first proclaimed to the women when they discovered the empty tomb (they were the last to see Him die, and the first to know, see and proclaim that He had risen from the dead; Matthew 28:1-10) More on this below

Feminine Descriptions in the Bible compared with God

The Bible uses feminine descriptions, figures of speech, and imagery for God. For example,

The Church is referred to as a “bride” (Revelation 19:7-10, Revelation 21:2,9).

God refers to Himself as the Husband, and His people as His wife (Hosea 2:16, Ezekiel chapters 6 & 16).

God refers to the Israelites as been born by Him and His womb (Deuteronomy 32:18; Numbers 11:12; Isaiah 46:3).

God identifies Himself as someone who cannot forget our needs, just as a mother cannot forget nursing/feeding her child (Isaiah 49:15).

God identifies Himself as someone who has compassion, just as a mother who has compassion for her son in her womb (Isaiah 49:15).

God identifies Himself as someone who comforts, just as a mother comforting her child (Isaiah 66:13).

God identifies Himself as someone groaning in pain like a woman in labor (Isaiah 42:14).

God identifies Himself as a bear who has lost her cubs (Hosea 13:8).

Jesus identifies Himself like a hen protecting her chicks (Matthew 23:37; Luke 13:34).

Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to a woman (Luke 13:20-21)

The Holy Spirit is identified as “moving over the surface of the waters” (Genesis 1:2). The Hebrew word for moving is rachaph and means hover. It is used in Deuteronomy 32:11 which refers to an eagle who “hovers” over its young. This seems to identify the Holy Spirit as having a feminine role (warming up the waters and preparing it for life – just as a hen sits on her eggs and keeps them warm).

Such imagery portrays women as very beautiful, as well as the emotions and afflictions they experience.

Tomb discovered empty by Women/Witnessed by Women

The Bible tells us that the empty tomb was discovered by women, and that Jesus first appeared to Mary Magdalene and other women after He resurrected (Matthew 28:1-10; Mark 16:1-11; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:14-18). In other words, Jesus allowed women to be the first people to “preach the Good News” (testify to others that He had risen; Matthew 28:8; Mark 16:7; Luke 24:9; John 20:18). In Jewish society, the testimony of women was not highly regarded (in Greco-Roman culture, a woman’s testimony was not allowed in court). So the fact that it was women who discovered the empty tomb rather than men is best explained by the fact that Jesus wanted to elevate the eyewitness testimony of women to the same as men. In fact, when Jesus appeared to the disciples, He reproached them for refusing to accept the eyewitness testimony of Mary (Mark 16:9-11,14). Jesus, who always had special respect for these women, honored them as the first eyewitnesses to the empty tomb and resurrection.

Also, when Jesus was dying on the cross, it was the women that stood and watched Jesus die (Matthew 27:55; Mark 15:40; Luke 23:27; John 19:25)—not the male Apostles (with the exception of one; John 19:26-27) because they were hiding (scattered like cowards (Matthew 26:31,56; Mark 14:27,50; John 16:32). And when Jesus resurrected, it was the women that were first told about Jesus rising from the dead and seeing Him alive (the resurrection was first proclaimed to the women when they discovered the empty tomb, who then saw Jesus alive). This means that the women were the last to see Jesus die, and the first to know and see that He had risen from the dead (women were the first to know, see and proclaim that Jesus had risen from the dead). The courage of the women watching Jesus die while the male Apostles hid like cowards explains why the resurrection was first proclaimed to women and witnessed by the women (in the last moments of Christ’s life, it was the women that that had the courage to stand by His side. So it only makes sense for the women to have the privilege of seeing the resurrected Jesus before the male Apostles saw Him).

Positive portrayal of women in the Bible

In Genesis 21:12 , God tells Abraham to do whatever his wife asks (in relation to Isaac)

Proverbs 19:14 tells us that “a prudent wife comes from God”

Proverbs 31:30 tells us that “a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised”

In Psalm 68:11 it says “The Lord gives the command; The women who proclaim the good tidings are a great host”. The reference is to the female choirs which took a prominent part in the war songs of ancient days.

Exodus 15:20-21 refers to Miriam leading the women of Israel in worship (singing and dancing)

Deuteronomy 31:12 tells us that women were required to be present for the public reading of the Scriptures – not just men

1 Samuel 25:32-35 tells us of a woman named Abigail who “kept me [David] this day from bloodshed and from avenging myself by my own hand”

Jesus’ first miracle was performed in response to a plea from His mother (John 2:1-11) And Jesus’ first revelation of Himself as the Messiah was to a Samaritan woman (John 4:25-26)

Jesus healed women from sicknesses and demonic possession (Luke 8:1-3; 43-48). He even raised a girl from the dead (Mark 5:35-43; Luke 8:49-56)

When the scribes and Pharisees brought a woman ‘caught in adultery’ to Jesus (a crime punishable by death), Jesus did not condemn her (John 8:3-11)

When a ‘sinful woman’ poured perfume on Jesus’ feet, He did not rebuke or reject her (Luke 7:36-39,44-49)

In Luke 15:8-10, Jesus tells a parable of a woman finding a lost coin. He compares her to the joy in the presence of the angels of God when a sinner repents (sinner finds God)

In John 4:27, the Disciples were “amazed” to see Jesus speaking to the Samaritan woman (she was not just a Samaritan, but a Samaritan woman; John 4:7). This is because (1) Samaritans (half-Jew half-Gentile) hated the Jews (2) women would not socialize in public and men would not speak to women in public (it was not unlawful in regards to the Laws of Moses, but it was considered indecent and improper; a violation of Jewish rules known as Dat Yehudit). Yet here we can see that Jesus was breaking the barriers of these man-made rules, stigmas and customs which treated women (in this case, a Samaritan woman) unfairly (Jesus placed women and Samaritans on the same equal path as Jews). Also, after Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman, we learn that “From that city many of the Samaritans believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified, “He told me all the things that I have done.” (John 4:39) Here we see many Samaritans (people that hated Jews) put their faith in Jesus on the basis of a woman’s testimony! (a Samaritan woman leading other Samaritans to the Jewish Messiah). This was a time when a woman’s testimony was not allowed in court! They also understood that Jesus was the “Savior of the world” (John 4:42) and not just Savior of the Jews (the Messiah came to save Gentiles/Samaritans and not just Jews). What an incredible way of reconciling and ending the resentment between Jews and Samaritans (the half-breed Jewish Samaritans are equals with Jews because they have been brought together in Christ through the words of a woman who was also a Samaritan) To put it another way, Jesus is expressing racial equality and gender equality (a half-breed Jew/Samaritan woman leading other Samaritans to the Jewish Messiah places women and Samaritans as equals with men and Jews) It should also be pointed out that this was the first time Jesus publicly professed Himself as the Messiah (He already had Disciples that knew He was the Messiah, but He never publicly professed Himself as the Messiah prior to this). In other words, the first time Jesus publicly professes Himself as the Messiah is to a Samaritan woman, as opposed to a Jewish man.

In Luke 8:1-3, it speaks of several women who followed Jesus as He preached the Good News. The passage illustrates the respect Jesus had for women and how He allowed women to follow Him when He traveled. It is a passage that demonstrates the equality women have with men; they are part of the Church and have a right to learn and teach just like men (see also Mark 15:41)

In Luke 10:38-42, it speaks of a woman named Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus. Mary was “was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word”. For Mary to sit at Jesus' feet, and for Jesus to allow her to do so, was itself controversial. Mary took the place of a disciple by sitting at the feet of the teacher (a common expression and act between a teacher and student). This was unusual for a woman in first-century Judaism to be accepted by a teacher as a disciple.

Colossians 4:15 refers to a woman named Nympha in which the Church would meet in her home. The Church could have met in a Man’s home, but they decided to meet in a woman’s home; a sign of equality.

Philippians 4:2-3 says, “I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to live in harmony in the Lord. Indeed, true companion, I ask you also to help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement also and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.” The use of the words “shared my struggle” and “fellow workers” identifies these women as equals with Paul.

Wives are the weaker vessel and are a Possession

1 Peter 3:7 refers to wives as the “weaker vessel” (i.e. a husband and wife are two vessels, and the wife is the weaker of the two). Some might argue that this verse is a sexist comment (women are physically and emotionally weaker/fragile). However, Peter is not concerned with the physical or emotional limitations of the female gender (he is not implying women are physically or emotionally weaker than men). Instead, he is concerned with the role and position of a wife and how they need to submit to their husbands; 1 Peter 3:1,5-6 (husband has authority and will rule over his wife – which is not the same as a man having authority and ruling over a woman). Furthermore, 1 Peter 3:7 continues by saying, “show her honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered.” Peter is acknowledging that a wife needs to be respected because they are a fellow heir (equal) to God’s Kingdom. Interestingly, the Bible says that “God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong” (1 Corinthians 1:27), and that certain parts of the body “seem to be weaker are necessary” (1 Corinthians 12:22). Here we see that being weak is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, Paul said, “for when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10) Also, the Bible speaks of different vessels; some of which are made of gold and silver and are for honorable use, while others are made of clay and dishonorable (2 Timothy 2:20-21). Considering Peter tells husbands to “honor” their wife, it would be fair to say that a wife is similar to a vessel that is made of gold and silver (soft/fragile, but precious and honorable)

1 Thessalonians 4:4 says, “each of you know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor” Some believe that “vessel” is referring to a man’s wife—as 1 Peter 3:7 refers to wives as a vessel. In other words, 1 Thessalonians 4:4 is claiming that husbands can possess (control) their wives like a vessel. However, the context of this passage is in relation to sexual immorality. In other words, the “vessel” is not referring to a wife. Instead, it is referring to a husband’s body (i.e. a husband must control his own body in order to prevent “sexual immorality” and “lustful passion”, v3,5). But let’s say for argument sake the passage is referring to a wife. What then? Notice how it says “honor”. This is the same as 1 Peter 3:7 that says “show honor”. So even if the vessel is referring to a wife, the husband is to “honor” the vessel.

Gullible women

2 Timothy 3:6 refers to men who take captive of “weak/gullible women” because the women are “weighed down with sins, led on by various impulses”. The words “weak/gullible woman” are a mistranslation. The Greek word in this passage is gynaikarion and means little woman, silly woman. It is used nowhere else in the New Testament. It is implying that there are immature/foolish woman (i.e. women who are silly enough to be led astray by various impulses), and that there are men who take advantage of such women. Even today, there are women who feel the need to wear expensive clothes and put lots of make up on just to get a mans attention. It is the men who take advantage of such women.

Honoring mother and father

In the 10 Commandments, God commands His people to “honor your father and your mother” (Exodus 20:12, Deuteronomy 5:16), while in Leviticus 19:3, God commands His people to “reverence his mother and his father”. Notice how Leviticus places “mother” before “father”. This reversal is intended to show that both parents are equally entitled to honor and reverence (the female role of motherhood is just as equal to the male role of fatherhood). In fact, the nurturing and upbringing of a child begins with a mother, that is, a child knows their mother before their father (e.g. child is born out of their mother, drinks milk from their mother’s breasts etc). This could be one of the reasons why Leviticus places “mother” before “father”.

Women are to work at home

Titus 2:3-5 refers to women being encouraged to be “workers at home”. Some might argue that this verse is a sexist comment, implying that a woman cannot work financially. However, the context is regarding “young women” and “their children” – it is to with women needing to stay home while raising their children; it is not forbidding women to work and make an income. This is because many married couples struggle raising their children if both parents are working (we can see this in society today). This is why Paul is encouraging women to stay at home while raising their children.

If God wants women to work from home, then why has He blessed so many women with the gifts, skills, and abilities to become doctors, police officers, and soldiers—jobs that require discipline, strength, leadership, and the ability to save lives? (more on this below)

Women as leaders and co-workers in the Church (equality)

Philippians 4:3 says, “Indeed, true companion, I ask you also to help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement also and the rest of my fellow workers”. The use of the words “shared my struggle” and “fellow workers” identifies these women as equals with Paul.

As previously mentioned, Paul speaks of Priscilla, a woman co-worker of Paul (Acts 18:26; Romans 16:3; 1 Corinthians 16:19). What is interesting to note is, when Apollos (a “learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures”) began to speak out boldly in the synagogue, Priscilla and her husband Aquila “took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately” (Acts 18:24-26). The Greek word for took is proslambano and means to take by the hand in order to lead aside. Here we see the equal teaching authority of a woman to a man – as Priscilla (and her husband) is taking a learned man aside and exposing his errors despite his thorough knowledge of scripture. To put it another way, a woman is pointing out the errors of a well learned and educated man, that is, someone who is thorough is scripture is getting a scripture lesson from a woman! In fact, Priscilla is mentioned first (before her husband) in several passages (Acts 18:18,26; Romans 16:3; 2 Timothy 4:19). This is significant because it notifies her seniority in her ministry!

Colossians 4:15 refers to a woman named Nympha in which the Church would meet in her home. The Church could have met in a Man’s home, but they decided to meet in a woman’s home; a sign of equality.

Romans 16:1 refers to Phoebe as a deacon. Although Paul gives instructions for men in Ephesus to be deacons (1 Timothy 3:8-13), we can see that he did not oppose women from becoming deacons. In fact, he commends her

Romans 16:7 refers to Junia a woman who is “outstanding among the apostles” (Romans 16:7) Here we have the name of a woman who is not only a disciple of Christ, but an apostle—and an ‘outstanding’ apostle at that! In fact, when it comes to leadership roles, apostles are ranked as number one (1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11-12)

The Bible approves of women serving as prophets (1 Corinthians 11:5) Prophets rank as second only to apostles (1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11-12). Prophecy is a gift (Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 12:10). Several women are identified as a prophetess (a female prophet – someone who speaks on behalf of God). They include Miriam (Exodus 15:20), Deborah (Judges 4:4), Huldah (2 Kings 22:14, 2 Chronicles 34:22), Isaiah’s wife (Isaiah 8:3), Anna (Luke 2:36-38), and the four daughters of Phillip (Acts 21:8-9). Some believe a “prophetess” is referring to a woman who is married to a prophet. However nowhere in the Bible is a woman called a “prophetess” on the basis that she was married to a “prophet”

As mentioned, Paul speaks of Junia, a female apostle (Romans 16:7) and approves of women prophesying (1 Corinthians 11:5). When it comes to leadership roles, Paul tells us that apostles are ranked as number one, while prophets are ranked second (1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11-12). In fact, Paul tells us that the Church is built on the foundations of the apostles and prophets (Ephesians 2:19-20) because of their ministry and service (leadership roles) for the Church. If women cannot be leaders or teach, then why does Paul approve of Junia as an apostle or women prophets?

Women in the workforce and leadership roles

The Bible gives numerous examples of intelligent women in the workforce and leadership roles;

Exodus 15:20-21 refers to Miriam leading the women of Israel in worship (singing and dancing)

Exodus 38:8; 1 Samuel 2:22 tells us that women served at the entrance of the tabernacle

Judges 4:4 refers to Deborah as a judge and not just a prophetess. Deborah was the only woman to be a judge before the Israelites had kings. Deborah was known as a woman of great wisdom and spiritual depth whose decisions were guided by her ability as a prophetess. Deborah went into battle to help the Israelites throw off an oppressive Canaanite ruler. The story of Deborah shows us that women were used for leadership and even for fighting.

In the Book of Esther, it speaks of an Israelite woman named Esther who was taken into the Persian King’s home/harem and eventually became the king’s wife. As a result, the king showed favor towards the Israelites and gave them the right to defend themselves against any enemy. This precipitated a series of reprisals by the Israelites against their enemies. The Israelites went on to kill their enemies and established an annual feast (the feast of Puriim) in memory of their deliverance. Esther was a woman who was adopted by her cousin after her parents death. She was taken away to satisfy the kings sexual desires. She eventually became the kings wife, making her queen. She used her authority to help deliver the Israelites from their enemies. All this was the result of a woman, with an entire book named after her!

Acts 17:34 refers to a woman named Damaris who placed her faith in Christ after Paul spoke to the Greek intellectuals in Athens. For a woman to be seen in public in Athens was uncommon, as women in the culture of that city lived sequestered lives. Thus, with her freedom to be in public and ability to follow Paul’s conversation with the leading men, Damaris must have been a very intelligent woman of her time.

Acts 18:1-3 refers to Aquila and his wife Priscilla and how “they were working, for by trade they were tent-makers.” This suggests that Priscilla was a tent-maker and not just her husband.

Acts 16:14 refers to “a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple fabrics”. This is of great significance. The passage did not need to make note of “purple fabrics”, but it did. Why? Because purple fabrics were for royalty; as the dye came from unique seashells, indicating Lydia’s job was quite important.

Romans 16:1-2 refers to Phoebe as a “benefactor”. The Greek word used in this passage is prostatis and means (1) woman set over others (2) female guardian, protectress, patroness, caring for the affairs of others and aiding them with her resources. This suggests that Phoebe was wealthy and had resources to help others (her aid and resources put her above others, including Paul)

Proverbs 31:16,24,26 says “She considers a field and buys it; from her earnings she plants a vineyard…She makes linen garments and sells them…She opens her mouth in wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue”. Here we learn about a woman of wisdom buying/owning land with her own income. Interestingly, this proverb describes the woman as wearing purple (v22) – suggesting that the woman is treated as royalty.

Luke 8:2-3 says, “Mary who was called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others who were contributing to their support out of their private means.” The Greek word used for private is hyparchonta and means possessions, good, wealth, property. This means that the women were supporting Jesus financially.

Genesis 29:9 refers to Rachel as a shepherdess.

Exodus 35:25 tells us that skilled woman spun with their hands

Ruth 2:7 refers to a hard working woman who wanted to gather grains/sheaves

1 Samuel 8:13 refers to women as “perfumers” (ointment-makers).

1 Chronicles 7:24 refers to “Sheerah, who built lower and upper Bethhoron” (Bethhoron was a city, which means Sheerah was either a builder or architect).

Judges Chapters 4 and 5 refers to a woman named Deborah who was the only woman to be a judge before the Israelites had kings.

As we can see, the Bible does not forbid women from working and making an income. The Bible does however tell us that a woman must put her husband and children before her career, and for this reason, it is better for a woman to stay at home in order to prevent herself from neglecting her duties as a wife and mother.

Protection laws for women

God gave several laws in order to protect women. These include; laws against incest, rights for marriage, rights for women that have been divorced, protection against rape/to prevent rape, protection for female servants, widows, wives, their children/inheritance, false accusations of adultery, and false accusations of a woman’s virginity (Exodus 21:8-11,20,26-32; Exodus 22:16; Leviticus 18:6-23; Leviticus 19:20; Leviticus 20:10-21; Numbers 5: 11-28; Numbers 27:8-9; Deuteronomy 21:14-15; Deuteronomy 22:13-21,23-24,28-29; Deuteronomy 24:1-4,19-21; Deuteronomy 25:5-6).

Marriage and Divorce

The Pharisees asked Jesus, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any and every reason?” (Matthew 19:3). In response, Jesus said, “whoever divorces his wife, except for immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery” (Matthew 19:9, see also Matthew 5:32). In this passage, divorce is only permitted if “immorality” is committed. The Greek word for immorality is porneia and means adultery, fornication. In other words, Jesus is permitting divorce on the grounds of adultery or fornication alone. This was revolutionary in two ways. First, under the Law, a person could be put to death for adultery. But Jesus demonstrated love and mercy which is fulfilment of the Law (e.g. divorcing someone on the grounds of adultery is far more loving than punishing someone with death on the grounds of adultery). We see this with Joseph and Mary (Joseph thought Mary had an affair because she was pregnant with a child that wasn’t his, hence, planned on divorcing Mary rather than having her stoned to death) Second, under the Law, a man could divorce his wife if he had found “something indecent about her” (Deuteronomy 24:1). Unfortunately, some of the Jews saw this as a way of divorcing their wife for “any and every reason”—which is why Jesus made it clear that divorce is only permitted on the grounds of adultery or fornication.

Women authority and submission

The Bible makes it clear that men and women have equal authority to rule over God’s creation (Genesis 1:27-28). Thus, gender is to do with procreation. It is not a means to manipulate and keep women under Man in society or prevent women from work or leadership roles (treat women unfairly or inferior).

Example: 1 Timothy 2:12-14, Paul says “I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet. For Adam was formed first, then Eve. And Adam was not the one deceived; it was the woman who was deceived” Some might argue that this is forbidding women to teach/have leadership roles, and is also trying to keep women under men. However, Paul is emphasizing on the culture of Ephesus. i.e. In Ephesus, women were the authority figure because people worshipped the pagan goddess Artemis (Acts 19:28,34). As a result, Paul wants the Christian women in Ephesus and converts from the Artemis-cult in Ephesus to break free from the customs of their city; not because it is wrong for women to teach/lead, but because the culture in Ephesus had placed the authority of women above the authority of men (if a Christian woman was teaching and leading in Ephesus, then it might look as if they are encouraging female authority or worshipping Artemis). Thus, the idea of forbidding women to teach/lead is to do with Ephesus, not society in general (a way of giving men a stronger leadership/teaching role in Ephesus in order to get peoples minds off women-authority and the pagan goddess). Paul is reminding women in Ephesus that Man was created first, then woman. And because of this, the women in Ephesus need to humble themselves and respect authority of Man and not have authority over Man (a woman’s authority in society and to lead is not under man, but at the same time, it is not over a man – it is equal, as mentioned in Genesis 1:27-28) It should also be pointed out that Paul is not implying that Eve is gullible or worse than Adam simply because she was deceived rather than Adam. Instead, Paul is implying that Adam has more to answer for because no one deceived him (if anything, Adam is the worse of the two because he sinned completely and wholeheartedly without any outside influence involved)

Example: 1 Timothy 2:11, Paul says “a woman should learn in quietness and full submission”. Some people have used this verse to imply that women must be silent in a church or marriage. This is incorrect. The context of this passage is regarding prayer and worship (see 1 Timothy 2:8). Women are to remain quiet while men lead in prayer during public worship. This is because the women in Ephesus had an assertive and authoritative role in praying and worshipping Artemis (they were quite vocal during prayer) Therefore, as far as the culture is concerned, Paul wanted to make sure that Christian women (and converts from the Artemis-cult) did not get the wrong idea or give the wrong impression (i.e. if a Christian woman spoke during prayer and worship, then it might look as if they are encouraging female authority or praying to Artemis).

Example: 1 Corinthians 11:3, Paul says “Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of a woman, and God is the head of Christ”. We have already established that a man is not the head of a woman (a husband is the head of his wife, but this is not the same as a man being the head of a woman). Therefore, when Paul says, “the man is the head of a woman, and God is the head of Christ” he is not referring to subordination, but origination, that is, a woman originates from man, and man originates from God (the biblical principle of the creative order). We know this because of what it says in 1 Corinthians 11:8,12; “For man does not originate from woman, but woman from man…For as the woman originates from the man…all things originate from God” Also, if 1 Corinthians 11:3 is implying sexism towards women because a man is the head of a woman, then it would also be implying sexism towards men because Christ is the head of every man (men are treated just as unfairly as women because they too are inferior; as they are under Christ)

Equality of Salvation

Galatians 3:28 says “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus”. The idea that there is no “male and female” is to do with salvation and how it is for everyone, regardless of their gender (male or female) race (Jew or Gentile/Greek) or social status (slave or free man). In other words, when it comes to salvation, there is no distinction between men and women—both are equally able to receive it (men do not have greater access to salvation than women or vice versa)

12 Male Apostles

Jesus chose 12 Jewish men to be His Apostles. Some see this as sexism, that is, Jesus did not choose any women to be part of the 12 (women do not have the authority to lead). However, the reason Jesus chose 12 Jewish men (and no women) is because the Israelites were descended from Jacob’s 12 sons—forming 12 tribes that eventually made the nation of Israel (technically speaking, the tribe of Levi did not have land of its own, while the tribe of Joseph had two portions of land rather than one). So just the nation of Israel was born from 12 sons, so to the Church would be born from 12 men (the Church originates from 12 men, just as the nation of Israel originates from 12 men, that is to say, Jesus chose 12 men to build the Church, just as God chose 12 men to build the nation of Israel) And these men will judge the nation of Israel (judge or preside over Christ’s judgment when it comes to the Israelites that refused to accept the message the Apostles preached; Matthew 19:28; Luke 22:28-30; Revelation 21:14).

Also, the 12 Disciples/Apostles were tasked with a very difficult mission. For instance, these men would journey far and wide across the earth in all nations (Matthew 28:19). Unfortunately, in ancient times, many nations treated women as second class citizens. Furthermore, women were not known for speaking in public. This means that the message of salvation would less likely be accepted in foreign nations had it come from women. Furthermore, the 12 Disciples/Apostles were to travel with little commodities (Matthew 10:9-10; Mark 6:7-9; Luke 9:2-3). They would be sent amongst dangerous people and face persecution (Matthew 10:16-23). In fact, according to tradition, the majority of Disciples/Apostles died as martyrs. Thus, due to the culture and mission, Jesus chose 12 men (it would be similar to sending women out to war even though there are plenty of men that could take their place; it is cruel and unnecessary).

Finally, although none of the 12 Disciples/Apostles were women, Jesus had many disciples that were women (as mentioned earlier, Junia was an apostle; Romans 16:7)

For someone to argue that Jesus was a sexist and did not treat them as equals (on the basis that none of the 12 Disciples/Apostles were women) is total ignorance. It would be much like saying, “None of the 12 Disciples/Apostles were blind and crippled, therefore, Jesus discriminated against the disabled” (none of the 12 were disabled, therefore, Jesus was prejudice towards the disabled—even though He healed many blind and crippled people) or “None of the 12 Disciples/Apostles were Gentiles, therefore, Jesus discriminated against Gentiles” (none of the 12 were Gentiles, therefore, Jesus was prejudice towards Gentiles—even though He showed compassion towards Gentiles, including a Samaritan woman)

Birth and Childhood of Jesus

When we read the birth and childhood of Jesus, we find intimate details that most likely came from His mother. For example, the Bible tells us that Mary wrapped Jesus in “swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger” (Luke 2:7). We find passages where Mary’s name is given before her husband Joseph (Luke 2:16) and an emphasis on Mary (Luke 2:19). We also read about Mary’s reaction after she and Joseph could not find Him when He was twelve (Luke 2:48). All this suggests that Luke relied on the testimony of a woman (Mary, the mother of Jesus) to give details of Jesus’ birth and childhood. And remember, in Jewish society, the testimony of women was not highly regarded

Women before Men

As previously mentioned, there are several occasions where the name of a woman is mentioned before the name of a man

A person is to show “reverence his mother and his father” (Leviticus 19:3)

The shepherds came and “found their way to Mary and Joseph” (Luke 2:16)

In several passages, Paul speaks of “Priscilla and Aquila” (Acts 18:18,26; Romans 16:3; 2 Timothy 4:19)

Concluding thoughts

Scientific studies tell us that the female brain develops faster than the brain of a male. This means that girls speak before boys, read before boys, and mature (both intellectually and physically) before boys. If women were intended to be some kind of inferior creature, then God would not create women in this way

It is important that Men do not use Bible verses as a way to justify treating women as inferior. We need to examine the context of the passage, as well as the culture of Biblical times. Above all, God loves and respects men and women equally, as should we. i.e. God, in His infinite wisdom, created humans as two distinct genders in order to enable them to complement and fulfill each other. Each gender should appreciate and use its special strengths (men and women were created equal, but each have their own strengths in order to make them unique and work together).

Some have argued, “the Bible was written by men in a male dominating civilization. Therefore, it is only natural that the Bible would treat women as inferior”. This is a fallible argument. Every historical documentation has been predominantly written by men (both religious and secular documentation). Does this mean we are to reject all historical documentation simply because it may hold bias opinions? No. So why treat the Bible any different? If the Bible discriminated against women, then we would not have so many Christian women today; women would reject God because they view Him as a sexist. But they don’t because they know it is society (mankind) that is responsible for the injustice women face – not God.

Genis begins with the relationship between man and woman prior to Moses. That was prehistoric! If, on the other hand, this discussion is for Moses’s Day, it would be in context of the prevailing conditions.

While there were some tribal matriarchal societies, those were few and were among pagan groups. The religions of God were patriarchal societies, so man DID rule over women.

He also ruled over his wives. Moses permitted polygamy so one can understand why they’d have to. The man financially supported the women, who never got employment outside of the home. Her role was to produce offspring and take care of her husband, seeing to his every need. The exceptions were women who had no husband or father.

Women didn’t take part in public office so had no voice on that platform. They weren’t educated. Women were rarely mentioned due to the cultural tradition of protecting their chastity and, usually, they were given in arranged marriages. If she was single, she remained in her father’s house under his rule.

The only things she was permitted to own were her tools to do her work, ie., spinning wheels and cooking pots. Women weren’t allowed to own anything else. Her husband owned everything in the family and could, do with it as he pleased. If she was widowed, she had nothing – his assets went to the eldest male offspring or nephew or back to the man’s eldest brother. Inheritance rules were by blood kin.

When Jesus legislated monogamy, the man remained as head of the household, making All final decisions. He continued to own everything. If they were divorced, she got nothing. If he died, she’d be the last one on the list to get anything since blood kin came first. However, if a woman was single, she could inherit from her family, keep the inheritance, and own property. She’d lose all that if she later married.

Were women loved? Yes, sometimes dearly; they were taught to treasure them; however they were also treated as if owned and they all had the same job.

There is no way you can twist Biblical scripture into representing an egalitarian society. That just didn't happen nor was it legislated to create that. Women were simply left in their undeveloped state. It wasn't their time yet, though many women tried for more.

If modern Christian women were compelled to follow Biblical legislation and culture, there would be no Christian women obeying them. Laws and rules change according to the needs of the Age and God's Will is the source of change. What He willed for the ancients isn't the sum product of what He Wills for moderns.