In the Old Testament, we frequently see God establishing roles and responsibilities for His people, including women. While it is easy to feel that these verses exclude women from certain roles, we need to embrace the idea that, even in their callings, women played essential parts in God's story. By exploring these verses, we can also consider how their roles were vital in shaping faith and community, even if they didn't preach in the public assembly. Their impact, though sometimes behind the scenes, was and is significant in God's kingdom.

“Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron’s sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her, with tambourines and dancing.” – Exodus 15:20

“Now Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, was judging Israel at that time.” – Judges 4:4

“Then Hannah prayed and said: ‘My heart rejoices in the LORD; in the LORD my horn is lifted high. My mouth boasts over my enemies, for I delight in your deliverance.'” – 1 Samuel 2:1

“So Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Achbor, Shaphan, and Asaiah went to speak to the prophetess Huldah, who was the wife of Shallum son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe.” – 2 Kings 22:14

“She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.” – Proverbs 31:26

In the New Testament, we come across specific teachings about roles within the church. These teachings often relate to the order and structure necessary for maintaining unity and respect among believers. These verses should prompt us to think about the nature of church leadership and how it aligns with God's vision for our world. Moreover, we have to acknowledge that these instructions are meant not to diminish women's value but to provide guidance for our gatherings and how we communicate the Gospel.

“I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; rather, she is to remain quiet.” – 1 Timothy 2:12

“The women should keep silent in the churches. For they are not permitted to speak, but should be in submission, as the Law also says.” – 1 Corinthians 14:34

“Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives.” – 1 Peter 3:1

“But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, the head of a wife is her husband, and the head of Christ is God.” – 1 Corinthians 11:3

“Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord.” – Ephesians 5:22

While the verses discussed may seem limiting, we also witness the tremendous support women offered to the ministry of Jesus and the early church. They played critical roles behind the scenes, providing care, hospitality, and encouragement to those preaching the Word. This guidance shows us that, even if they were not the ones preaching, their contributions were invaluable. We can find strength in knowing that support is just as powerful as the role of a preacher, often leading to significant outcomes that change lives.

“Soon afterward, he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s household manager, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means.” – Luke 8:1-3

“All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers.” – Acts 1:14

“One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul. And after she was baptized, and her household as well, she urged us, saying, ‘If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.' And she prevailed upon us.” – Acts 16:14-15

“I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church at Cenchreae, that you may welcome her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints and help her in whatever she may need from you, for she has been a patron of many and of myself as well.” – Romans 16:1-2

“Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good.” – Titus 2:3

As believers, we recognize that we are all part of the body of Christ, where every individual has unique gifts and roles to play. Women and men alike are called to action within their respective capacities, complementing one another to fulfill God's mission. Although the preaching role may not be designated for women, we can marvel at how God uses each of us in different ways to build His kingdom. Let’s celebrate the unity that diversity brings to our faith community.

“For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.” – 1 Corinthians 12:12

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” – Galatians 3:28

“And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.” – Ephesians 4:11-12

“Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.” – Colossians 3:11

“For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.” – Romans 12:4-5

To empower women within the church while acknowledging the verses that suggest limitations, we should explore how they can lead in various capacities. Just because a woman may not be in a preaching role does not mean she cannot be a leader in prayer, ministry, hospitality, or teaching other women. The Bible illustrates how women contributed meaningfully to the church community, showcasing their leadership abilities in ways that align with God’s calling. We see this as a beautiful calling in our lives today.

“Greet Prisca and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks but all the churches of the Gentiles give thanks as well.” – Romans 16:3-4

“Their wives likewise must be dignified, not slanderers, but sober-minded, faithful in all things.” – 1 Timothy 3:11

“I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.” – Philippians 4:2-3

“Then Jesus said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.'” – Matthew 28:10

“Jesus said to her, ‘Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and say to them, I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'” – John 20:17

As believers, each of us has received spiritual gifts from the Holy Spirit. These gifts are meant to empower us to serve one another and spread the message of Christ. Even if women may not take on the role of preaching, they are not without gifts. Women can possess the gifts of teaching, encouragement, administration, and service, all of which are essential for a healthy church. Together, we can uncover and activate these gifts, allowing women to thrive in their unique roles within the body of Christ.

“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit.” – 1 Corinthians 12:4

“To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” – 1 Corinthians 12:7

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” – Ephesians 2:10

“Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith.” – Romans 12:6

“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace.” – 1 Peter 4:10

God is a God of order and peace, and the scriptures on women not preaching often stem from a desire for order within the church. These specific directives aim to guide us in maintaining a harmonious atmosphere, allowing for clear communication of the Gospel. As we consider this divine order, we should remain open to appreciating how it leads us to fulfill God's plan in an orderly and respectful manner, enabling us all to grow in faith and community.

“For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints.” – 1 Corinthians 14:33

“Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme,” – 1 Peter 2:13

“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.” – Hebrews 13:17

“For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.” – Colossians 2:5

“We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace among yourselves.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13

In conclusion, we find a rich calling for women in the church. While some verses suggest limitations, they also open the door for numerous avenues of service, leadership, and action. We are not bound to one role; instead, we are called to utilize our strengths and gifts to benefit others. The beauty of the Gospel’s message is the empowerment we find in service, which allows us to shine brightly in our communities. Let’s encourage one another to take up our callings, be active in our faith, and contribute to the building up of the church.

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45

“And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’” – Matthew 25:40

“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” – Galatians 5:13

“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” – Philippians 2:4

“If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet.” – John 13:14

As we wander through the Bible verses about women not preaching, it’s vital for us to reflect on the context and instructive purpose behind them. Rather than observing limitations outright, we should focus on recognizing the valuable roles women continue to play in the service of God and His Church. By examining the narratives and contributions of women throughout scripture, we learn that their influence remains essential, enriching the spiritual community in significant ways. Ultimately, the role of a believer is one of service, empowerment, and grace, as we strive to mirror Christ’s love to each other and those around us.

Understanding our identity as part of the body of Christ is fundamental as we embrace unity amidst diversity. We are all designed with unique gifts and callings that work together to fulfill God’s purpose. Rather than fixating on the perceived boundaries, let us wholeheartedly support one another as we each contribute our strengths. In serving together, we nurture a community that thrives on love and respect, pointing others toward the hope found in the Gospel. With open hearts, we are called to celebrate each person’s role, recognizing that every contribution is vital in shaping the kingdom of God.

May we find encouragement in these verses and draw closer to the heart of Jesus as we navigate our roles in our faith community. Let's empower each other as we pursue a deeper connection with Him while fully embracing the gifts He has given us for the common good.