The topic of women preaching has been debated among Christians for centuries.
Some believe that women should have the right to preach and teach in the church, while others argue that the Bible restricts this role to men.
Both sides turn to Scripture for guidance, but the interpretations vary.
What does the Bible actually say about women preaching?
Does God call women to teach and share His Word, or are there limitations on their role in the church?
Let’s explore what the Bible says and how it applies to believers today.
Women Were Active in Ministry in the Bible
Throughout the Bible, women played significant roles in spreading God’s message.
They were prophets, teachers, and leaders in various ways.
In the Old Testament, Miriam, the sister of Moses, was a prophetess who led worship and spoke on God’s behalf (Exodus 15:20).
Deborah was both a prophetess and a judge over Israel, leading the nation in wisdom and military strategy (Judges 4:4-5).
In the New Testament, we see women involved in ministry as well.
Anna, a prophetess, spoke about Jesus in the temple after His birth (Luke 2:36-38).
Philip’s four daughters were also known for prophesying (Acts 21:8-9).
These examples show that women were actively sharing God’s Word, even in public settings.
Women Were Among Jesus’ Followers
Jesus treated women with great respect and included them in His ministry.
While it was unusual for Jewish rabbis to teach women, Jesus welcomed them as disciples.
Mary of Bethany sat at Jesus’ feet to learn from Him, something typically reserved for men (Luke 10:39).
Jesus also entrusted the first announcement of His resurrection to women.
After rising from the dead, He appeared to Mary Magdalene and told her to share the good news with the disciples (John 20:17-18).
This was a significant moment because, in that culture, women’s testimony was not highly valued.
Yet Jesus chose a woman to be the first witness of His resurrection.
The Role of Women in the Early Church
The early church had women who played important roles in ministry.
Romans 16:1-2 mentions Phoebe, a servant (or deacon) of the church at Cenchrea.
Paul instructed the church to receive her with respect, indicating she had an important role.
Priscilla, along with her husband Aquila, was involved in teaching and mentoring other believers.
Acts 18:24-26 describes how she helped instruct Apollos, a well-known preacher.
This shows that women were not just passive members of the church—they were actively involved in teaching and guiding others.
The Controversial Passages About Women Preaching
While the Bible includes many examples of women in ministry, some passages seem to place restrictions on their role.
One of the most debated verses is 1 Timothy 2:11-12:
Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.
But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.
Some believe this means women should never preach or teach in church.
Others argue that Paul was addressing a specific issue in the Ephesian church, where false teachings were spreading.
Another passage often referenced is 1 Corinthians 14:34-35:
Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law.
And if they will learn anything, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.
Again, some interpret this as a universal rule, while others believe it was addressing disorder in worship services at the time.
Since Paul also acknowledges women praying and prophesying in church (1 Corinthians 11:5), it seems unlikely that he meant for women to be completely silent.
Can Women Teach Other Women and Children?
Even among those who believe women should not preach to men, there is agreement that they can teach other women and children.
Titus 2:3-5 says,
The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things.
That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children.
This shows that women have a responsibility to teach and guide others, especially younger women.
Many churches encourage women to teach in Sunday school, lead Bible studies, and mentor others in faith.
The Importance of Context in Biblical Interpretation
Understanding the cultural and historical context of Scripture is important.
In biblical times, women had fewer rights and were often uneducated.
Paul’s instructions may have been influenced by these cultural realities.
Some scholars believe that his words were meant to prevent confusion and disorder, not to create a permanent rule against women preaching.
Additionally, throughout history, cultural attitudes have influenced how these verses are applied.
In some Christian traditions, women have been completely restricted from leadership roles, while in others, they have been welcomed as pastors and preachers.
The Role of the Holy Spirit in Calling Women to Preach
If God does not want women to preach, why has He called so many to do so?
Throughout history, women have felt a deep calling to share God’s Word, and many have led powerful ministries.
Joel 2:28-29 prophesies that God’s Spirit will be poured out on both men and women:
And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy.
Your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions.
And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit.
The New Testament confirms this prophecy in Acts 2:17-18, when the Holy Spirit is poured out at Pentecost.
If God’s Spirit is given to both men and women, it suggests that He empowers both to share His message.
Should Women Preach Today?
The answer to whether women should preach depends on how different churches interpret Scripture.
Some churches believe that leadership roles should be reserved for men, while others believe God calls both men and women to preach.
Regardless of where one stands, it is clear that women have an important role in spreading the gospel.
Women are actively involved in evangelism, discipleship, and missions around the world.
Even if they do not preach from a pulpit, they can still teach, encourage, and lead others to Christ.
Final Thoughts
The Bible presents both examples of women in ministry and passages that seem to limit their role.
While some believe that preaching should be reserved for men, others see evidence that God uses women to teach and proclaim His Word.
The most important thing is that believers remain faithful to Scripture and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Regardless of one’s position, every Christian should agree that both men and women are called to share the gospel.
The mission of the church is too important to be divided over this issue.
In the end, the focus should be on bringing people to Christ and glorifying God in all things.