“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13
Bible Verses About Women Preaching
The Power of Women in Ministry
Women have played influential roles throughout biblical history, including in ministry and preaching. We see that God’s call does not discriminate based on gender. Throughout scripture, there are many examples of women who have been called to lead and proclaim His Word. This highlights how God values both men and women in His divine plan. As we reflect on the power of women in ministry, we realize that they contribute unique perspectives and gifts. Their voices are important in spreading the gospel and nurturing the faith of others. Let’s explore the verses that confirm and celebrate their powerful role in preaching.
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.'” – Acts 2:17-18
Romans 16:1
“I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae.” – Romans 16:1
Galatians 3:28
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” – Galatians 3:28
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.” – 1 Corinthians 11:5
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.” – Luke 8:1-3
The Example of Biblical Women
The Bible is rich with stories of women who preached and proclaimed the Word of God. These women serve as examples for us today, showing us how God uses those who are willing to share His message. Their stories often reveal strength, faith, and courage in the face of adversity. When we think about women like Deborah, who was a judge and prophetess, we see that God has placed women in important roles throughout history. Let us find encouragement in their examples as we strive to follow their footsteps in preaching and ministry.
Deborah, 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, where the Israelites went to have their disputes settled.” – Judges 4:4-5
Miriam, Exodus 15:20
“Then Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a timbrel in her hand, and all the women followed her, with timbrels and dancing.” – Exodus 15:20
Anna, 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.” – Luke 2:36-38
Priscilla, 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.” – Acts 18:26
Mary, Mother of Jesus, Luke 1:46-48
“And Mary said: ‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed.” – Luke 1:46-48
Women as Instruments of God
Throughout scripture, we are reminded that God uses women as powerful instruments to share His message and bring about change. They have been used for His purpose, and their testimonies often inspire others to seek the Lord. When we acknowledge the role of women in preaching, we recognize that God equips each of us with unique gifts and talents. He calls us to share these gifts in ways that strengthen the body of Christ. Engaging with the Word helps us to embrace our calling, regardless of our background or gender.
Proverbs 31:26
“She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.” – Proverbs 31:26
2 Timothy 1:5
“I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” – 2 Timothy 1:5
Titus 2:3-5
“Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God.” – Titus 2:3-5
1 Peter 3:1
“Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives.” – 1 Peter 3:1
Matthew 28:7
“Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.” – Matthew 28:7
The Role of Women in the Early Church
The early church was a place where women took on major roles in preaching and leading others in faith. Their contributions were vital to the growth and development of the early Christian community. As we familiarize ourselves with these stories, we learn how women influenced the early church. Their participation helps us realize that women have always had a seat at the table of spiritual leadership. We can be inspired by these accounts and feel encouraged to partake in ministries today.
Acts 1:14
“They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.” – Acts 1:14
1 Timothy 2:11-12
“A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet.” – 1 Timothy 2:11-12
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.” – Acts 21:8-9
Philippians 4:2-3
“I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 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.” – Philippians 4:2-3
Colossians 4:15
“Give my greetings to the brothers and sisters at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house.” – Colossians 4:15
Women and Prophecy
In biblical times, many women were used by God to carry messages of prophecy. They were God’s mouthpieces to convey His truth and guidance to His people. This shows us that God can use anyone, regardless of gender, to share His message. As we explore the prophetic roles of women, we are encouraged to see ourselves as vessels for God’s Word. Everyone has the ability to share God’s message, and these women remind us to be bold in proclaiming our faith.
1 Samuel 10:6
“The Spirit of the Lord will come powerfully upon you, and you will prophesy with them; and you will be changed into a different person.” – 1 Samuel 10:6
Judges 4:6
“She sent for Barak son of Abinoam and said to him, ‘The Lord, the God of Israel, commands you: Go, take with you ten thousand men of Naphtali and Zebulun and lead them up to Mount Tabor.'” – Judges 4:6
1 Chronicles 25:5
“All these were under the direction of their father, for they were trained and skilled musicians for the Lord and they prophesied, according to the king’s order.” – 1 Chronicles 25:5
Isaiah 8:3
“Then I went to the prophetess, and she conceived and gave birth to a son. The Lord said to me, ‘Name him Maher-Shalal-Hash-Baz.’” – Isaiah 8:3
Joel 2:28
“And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions.” – Joel 2:28
Encouragement for Women Today
As we reflect on these verses, let’s remember the significant contributions of women in preaching throughout biblical history. We are encouraged to embrace our own calling to share God’s message. If God can use women in the past, He can surely use us today. It’s important to recognize that each of us has unique gifts to bring to the table. Let us be bold in preaching the Word, supporting each other, and serving in whichever capacity God has placed us. Together, we can make a difference, inspired by the biblical women who have gone before us.
John 4:28-30
“Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, ‘Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?’ They came out of the town and made their way toward him.” – John 4:28-30
Esther 4:14
“For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” – Esther 4:14
Acts 16:14-15
“One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira, named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message.” – Acts 16:14-15
Isaiah 40:31
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
Lamentations 3:22-23
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” – Lamentations 3:22-23
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the scriptures regarding women preaching, we see that God has consistently used women to tell His story and to lead others in faith. The examples of strong women like Deborah, Priscilla, and Mary remind us that every voice matters in sharing the gospel. They faced challenges yet remained steadfast in their pursuit of God’s calling. Each scripture encourages us to seek our role in ministry, regardless of gender, and to recognize the importance of our contributions.
We are each called to preach, share, and support one another in faith. Just as the early church included women in leadership, we too can strive to foster an inclusive environment that celebrates all voices. Let’s be bold and take inspiration from these women of faith who went before us. May we continue to uplift one another and share God’s love in our communities.
If you’re interested in exploring how women have played significant roles in the Bible, you can read about women in the Bible or discover insights about a wise woman. Together, let’s celebrate God’s call on our lives and the unique purpose we each have in His kingdom.