MODERN FEMINISM VS BIBLICAL WOMANHOOD
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Proverbs 31:10-30, Titus 2:3-5
Supporting Texts: Genesis 1:27, Genesis 2:18-24, 1 Peter 3:1-6, Ephesians 5:22-25, Galatians 3:28
INTRODUCTION:
In today’s world, the rise of modern feminism has stirred passionate debates around the role, identity, and value of women in society and the church. While some aspects of feminism rightly advocate for justice and equality, radical forms often reject God’s divine order and promote rebellion against biblical principles. It is important for the Church to respond with both grace and truth, upholding God's design without compromising scriptural truth.
Biblical womanhood is not about inferiority, silence, or oppression. It is about fulfilling God's purpose through dignity, honour, strength, wisdom, and service. God honours women and uses them mightily throughout Scripture, yet He also establishes distinct roles that are meant to glorify Him—not limit us.
This message aims to bring clarity, wisdom, and scriptural understanding so that women can walk confidently in God’s calling, not in the confusion of worldly ideologies.
1. GOD CREATED WOMEN WITH EQUAL VALUE AND UNIQUE PURPOSE
Women are not lesser than men in value but are distinct in role and function.
a) Created in God's Image (Genesis 1:27)
Men and women alike bear the image of God—equal in worth and dignity.
b) Designed as a Helper Fit for Man (Genesis 2:18-24)
Woman was created to complement, not compete, with man in God’s plan.
c) Equality in Salvation and Spiritual Worth (Galatians 3:28)
In Christ, all believers share equal access, inheritance, and identity.
d) Unique Roles Are a Part of God’s Beautiful Order (1 Corinthians 11:3)
Order is not oppression—it reflects God’s character and intention.
Biblical Example: Deborah (Judges 4:4-9) was a prophetess and judge, a leader who still honoured God’s order and voice.
2. MODERN FEMINISM OFTEN REJECTS GOD'S ORDER
Radical feminism promotes ideologies that contradict Scripture.
a) Encouragement of Rebellion Against Male Leadership (Ephesians 5:22-23)
While the Bible teaches mutual honour, it affirms godly headship in marriage.
b) Redefining Gender Roles Leads to Confusion (Romans 1:26-27)
Modern thought often rejects the biblical distinctions between men and women.
c) Independence Without Submission Undermines God’s Model (Titus 2:3-5)
Biblical submission is not slavery but a mark of strength and trust in God.
d) Feminism Often Replaces Womanhood with Worldliness (1 John 2:16)
The pursuit of worldly power and fame can lead women away from God’s path.
Biblical Example: Queen Vashti (Esther 1:10-22) is often wrongly praised, but her rebellion brought dishonour and disunity.
3. BIBLICAL WOMANHOOD IS A CALL TO GODLY CHARACTER AND INFLUENCE
God honours women who embrace His character and mission.
a) Strength and Dignity Define a Godly Woman (Proverbs 31:25)
She is strong not just physically, but morally and spiritually.
b) She Builds Her Home with Wisdom (Proverbs 14:1)
A wise woman invests in her family, not just herself.
c) She Is Modest, Humble, and Fearful of God (1 Peter 3:3-5)
Beauty is not only outward but found in a gentle, quiet spirit.
d) She Teaches and Trains Others in Righteousness (Titus 2:3-5)
Older women are called to disciple younger ones in godliness.
Biblical Example: Ruth (Ruth 1-4) displayed loyalty, humility, and faithfulness and was honoured by God.
4. WOMEN WHO WALK IN GOD'S DESIGN MAKE ETERNAL IMPACT
God uses women powerfully when they submit to His purpose.
a) Influence Begins at Home and Flows Outward (2 Timothy 1:5)
Lois and Eunice shaped Timothy’s destiny through their faith and example.
b) Ministry and Marketplace Are Platforms for God’s Glory (Acts 16:14-15)
Lydia was a businesswoman and worshipper whose home became a church.
c) Biblical Women Raised Godly Legacies (Proverbs 31:28-29)
Their legacy is not measured by status but by fruitfulness and godly impact.
d) Honour Comes to Those Who Honour God’s Order (1 Samuel 2:30)
God elevates women who honour Him with their choices, not worldly ambition.
Biblical Example: Mary, the mother of Jesus (Luke 1:26-38), humbly submitted to God’s will and became the vessel of divine purpose.
CONCLUSION:
Biblical womanhood is not a step backwards—it is a step into God's original design for fulfilment, honour, and influence. While modern feminism seeks power through self and rebellion, the Word of God calls women to walk in grace, wisdom, and divine purpose.
The Church must teach and model the beauty of God’s design for both men and women. In doing so, we reveal Christ’s heart and bring clarity to a confused generation. Women who embrace biblical womanhood will shine as lights in this world—courageous, compassionate, and Christ-centred.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to value and honour Your design for my life as a woman.
2. Father, give me wisdom to discern between truth and worldly deception.
3. Lord, empower me to build my home and influence my world for Your glory.
4. Help me raise godly daughters and teach biblical womanhood by example.
5. May my life reflect strength, dignity, and reverence for You at all times.
