Women in Ministry

(originally written in 2018) Have you ever heard of Huldah the prophetess? There are two accounts of her in 2 Kings 22 & 2 Chronicles 34. Quite simply, Huldah’s story does not fit with the prevailing theology on women in ministry that is held by most evangelicals in America.

There is really nothing to her story except that she preaches the word of God, quite authoritatively, to a group of men who happened to be the highest civic and religious leaders in the country. Even the high priest was there.

How about Anna the Prophetess? Her account is found in Luke 2. She played a unique role as a Prophetess and an Intercessor. The gifts of the Spirit had not been released yet, so even though Anna is mentioned in the New Testament, she is a Prophetess based on Old Testament standards. This distinguishes Anna as the bridge between the Old and New Testament women of spiritual repute.

The stories of women in ministry continued through the life and ministry of Christ, the ministry of Paul and throughout the centuries. From the Protestant revival to the second Evangelistic Awakening and on through the twentieth century Revival. Today is no different as Women continue to minister through the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

As an ordained woman living, ministering, and mothering in cross cultural settings where the roles and freedoms of women are often complicated, I am aware of how cultural morés form invisible roadblocks. But as a follower of Jesus, who happens to be a woman, an ordained minister, a wife, and a mom, it is my responsibility, my privilege and my call to not only be present in the church proclaiming God’s word but to also be a common, everyday Mary who makes space for others at the feet of Jesus. To imagine that God does not call women into ministry? There is nothing more unbiblical. May God give us fearless hearts and grace filled actions to answer his call wherever he leads us. As for me, I will continue to answer His call to Pastor.