It’s a question that often causes debate within church circles and also across denominations. Many avoid the discussion and the debate altogether and others will get quite heated shutting it down. But what are the actual Biblical evidences for allowing or forbidding women from preaching.
Firstly, let’s look at the bible verse that is quoted most in regard to this:
“I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet.” (1 Timothy 2:12 NIV)
Here are some of the most compelling biblical arguments used to affirm the role of women in preaching:
- The Role of Women in the Early Church
Acts 2:17-18 Peter quotes the prophet Joel, stating that in the last days, God will pour out His Spirit on all people, and “your sons and your daughters will prophesy.” The reference to daughters prophesying suggests that women were expected to speak God’s word in the early church, which includes preaching. - Acts 21:8-9: Philip, one of the Seven, had four daughters who “prophesied.” The fact that these women are described as prophets indicates they played an important role in the ministry of the early church, suggesting that women were involved in proclaiming God’s message.
- Women as Leaders and Teachers in the Early Church
Romans 16:1-7:
Paul commends women who played significant leadership roles in the early church, including Phoebe (a deacon and a patron of many), Priscilla (who, along with her husband Aquila, taught Apollos), and Junia (whom Paul refers to as “outstanding among the apostles”). These examples show that women were actively involved in ministry and teaching. - Corinthians 11:5: In this passage, Paul acknowledges that women pray and prophesy in the church, implying that women participated in speaking roles in the worship and ministry of the congregation. While Paul later addresses how women should conduct themselves in public worship (1 Cor. 14:34-35), this passage acknowledges their active participation in ministry.
- Acts 18:24-26: Priscilla and her husband Aquila both play a role in teaching Apollos, a well-known preacher. The fact that Priscilla is specifically mentioned as teaching Apollos shows that women were engaged in theological teaching and correction, which could be seen as an important form of preaching.
- Jesus’ Inclusive Ministry
John 4:28-30, 39-42 (The Samaritan Woman at the Well): Jesus reveals Himself as the Messiah to the Samaritan woman, who then goes on to evangelise her entire village. This story highlights the empowering role of women in evangelism and sharing the gospel message. Jesus’ inclusion of women in His ministry stands as a model for Christian practice. - Luke 8:1-3: This passage details how women, including Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna, supported Jesus’ ministry and were part of His traveling group. Their involvement suggests that women were not only recipients of Jesus’ teachings but also active participants in spreading His message.
- Paul’s Recognition of Women in Ministry
Galatians 3:28: In this famous verse, Paul declares, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” While the primary focus is on the unity of believers in Christ, it has been interpreted by many to imply equality in ministry roles, as all Christians have access to the same gifts of the Spirit and are called to serve the body of Christ. - Philippians 4:2-3: Paul speaks of two women, Euodia and Syntyche, who have “contended at my side in the cause of the gospel.” This acknowledges that women were active in ministry, and Paul calls for reconciliation between them, indicating their importance in the life and work of the church.
- The Great Commission
Matthew 28:8-10: After the resurrection, women are the first to encounter the risen Jesus. Jesus commissions them to go and tell His disciples the good news of His resurrection, which is a form of preaching. If women were trusted with this vital task, it suggests that their role in proclaiming the gospel is valid and important. - Spiritual Gifts
1 Corinthians 12:4-11: Paul speaks of various spiritual gifts given to the church, including the gift of prophecy, teaching, and wisdom. Since the gifts of the Spirit are given to both men and women, it follows that women, like men, are empowered to preach and teach if they have been given these gifts. - 1 Timothy 2:11-12 and 1 Corinthians 14:34-35
While these passages are often cited in opposition to women preaching, proponents of women in ministry argue that these verses must be understood in light of cultural and historical context. For example, in 1 Corinthians 14, Paul addresses specific disruptions in the Corinthian church, and in 1 Timothy 2, he is addressing particular issues related to false teaching. Many scholars suggest these verses are not prohibitive of all women preaching but are instead focused on specific situations in those early Christian communities.
What does this mean?
The most compelling biblical evidence for allowing women to preach is found in the recognition of women’s active roles in the ministry of Jesus, the early church, and in the teaching and leadership roles described in the New Testament. Supporters of women preaching often argue that the gift of preaching and teaching is not gender-specific, and that women have been entrusted with proclaiming the gospel and teaching in various contexts throughout Scripture. Additionally, the theological implications of equality in Christ (Galatians 3:28) and the diversity of spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12) further suggest that women should be allowed to fully participate in the preaching ministry of the church.
What are your thoughts?
