Go! And Be Used By God — Honouring Women In God’s Mission And Lessons From Women In The Bible Series

Go! And Be Used by God — Honouring Women in God’s Mission

Throughout history, God has called and empowered both men and women to serve His kingdom, proclaim His truth, and lead His people. Yet, some claim that women should not preach, teach, or hold leadership positions in the church. This misunderstanding arises from a misinterpretation of certain biblical texts while ignoring the broader testimony of Scripture.

Let’s be clear: The Bible is filled with examples of God using women as leaders, prophets, teachers, and even apostles. From the Old Testament to the New, we see that God does not restrict His calling by gender—He calls the willing, the faithful, and the obedient.

The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20—“Go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you.”—was not given exclusively to men. It was given to all followers of Jesus, men and women alike.

Paul’s words in Galatians 3:28 declare this truth:

“There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

In Christ, the dividing lines that separate people based on ethnicity, status, or gender are removed. The Spirit of God empowers all who believe in Jesus, and that includes women. If God calls a woman to preach, who are we to say she should remain silent?

Critics often cite 1 Timothy 2:12, where Paul says, “I do not let women teach men or have authority over them. Let them listen quietly.” But this verse must be understood in its historical and cultural context. Paul was addressing a specific issue in the Ephesian church, where false teaching was spreading (see 1 Timothy 1:3-4). In contrast, Paul affirmed women in ministry throughout his letters—he commended Phoebe, a deacon (Romans 16:1), praised Priscilla, who taught alongside her husband (Acts 18:26), and referred to Junia as an apostle (Romans 16:7).

It is clear that God raises up women for His purpose. Deborah led Israel as a judge and prophetess (Judges 4:4-5). Esther was chosen to save God’s people (Esther 4:14). Mary was the first to proclaim the risen Christ (John 20:17-18). Lydia led a house church (Acts 16:14-15, 40). Priscilla taught theology to a man (Acts 18:26). And the Holy Spirit fell on both men and women at Pentecost, fulfilling the prophecy of Joel that “your sons and daughters will prophesy” (Acts 2:17).

To deny women the right to lead, teach, and preach is to ignore the testimony of Scripture. The God who called Deborah, Mary, and Lydia is the same God who calls women today to proclaim His truth. God does not call based on gender—He calls based on His purpose.

As we explore the lives of significant women in the Bible, let us open our hearts to the truth: God equips and empowers those He calls. And when He calls a woman to lead, she must go and lead in the power of His Spirit.

As we examine Scripture, we will discover the incredible ways God has used women throughout history to accomplish His will.

Go! And Be Used by God: Lessons from Women of the Bible

Throughout history, God has chosen and used both men and women to accomplish His divine purposes. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, we see countless examples of women who, through faith and obedience, played a significant role in God’s plan. Their stories remind us that God calls each of us—regardless of our background, status, or circumstances—to be instruments for His glory. Today, we will explore the lives of several remarkable women in Scripture, seeing how God used them and what lessons we can learn from their faith.

1. Deborah: A Leader and Deliverer

Judges 4:4-5 (NLT) – “Deborah, the wife of Lappidoth, was a prophet who was judging Israel at that time. She would sit under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites would go to her for judgment.”

Deborah stands out as a unique leader in Israel’s history—a prophetess, a judge, and a military strategist. In a time when Israel was oppressed, she courageously led the people, showing that God equips those He calls.

Context and Exegesis:

• The Hebrew word for “judge” (??????, shaphat) means to govern or rule. Deborah not only settled disputes but also provided spiritual guidance.

• God spoke through her, demonstrating that He empowers both men and women for leadership when they submit to His authority.

Application:

Like Deborah, we must listen to God’s voice and act with courage. When God calls us, He provides the strength and wisdom needed to fulfill our purpose.

Quote: “Faith is not knowing what the future holds but knowing who holds the future.” – Corrie ten Boom