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Digging Deeper

Women—Called to Ministry

By Erica Abell Huinda

The following passages reflect a very small sampling of biblical women who obeyed God, fulfilling a divine purpose through unique ministries.

Deborah

Read Judges 2:18 and 4:1-10. Identify the three roles Deborah held as described in Judges 4:4. According to 2:18, who was ultimately responsible for the Israelites' deliverance? Since Israel was once again in crisis mode, what character traits would Deborah have needed to use to minister to the Israelites and deliver them from their oppressors?

Euodia and Syntyche

Read Philippians 4:2,3. Euodia and Syntyche were fellow ministers with Paul. Based on your knowledge of Paul's ministries sharing the gospel, describe the types of work these women probably performed.

In addition, these two women were in some type of dispute with each other. Is it unrealistic to expect smooth and trouble-free relationships with others in a ministry? Why or why not? How might these women have overcome their differences?

Huldah

Read 2 Kings 22:11-20; Acts 2:17,18. The account of Huldah challenges the limits some have placed upon women seeking ministry opportunities. In this passage, the king has sent four priests to a prophet, who is a married woman, for consultation on a national matter—the authoritative revelation regarding newly found Scriptures.

Verse 14 mentions Huldah's marital status. Does marriage affect a woman's ability to participate in a particular ministry, especially one with authority? Explain. Huldah boldly prophesies an alarming message to the spiritual and national leaders. Why are some of today's women reluctant to follow in the footsteps of Huldah, despite the authority given to Spirit-filled believers as described in Acts 2:17,18?

Mary, Joanna and Susanna

Read Luke 8:1-3. Imagine the great physical demands Jesus experienced as He traveled day to day teaching and healing the throngs of people who came to hear Him. Brainstorm the kinds of work these disciples performed to facilitate Jesus' ministry.

As followers of Jesus, these women saw a tremendous need and filled it. Are there needs around you waiting to be filled? How might your involvement alleviate great burdens in the ministry and evangelism of the gospel?

An incredible array of ministry opportunities awaits obedient women who are willing to come and serve; but perhaps you struggle with feelings of inadequacy in saying yes to God. Remember, however, that the authority and gifts these biblical women had came not from themselves, but from God—as do yours (2 Corinthians 4:7). God channels His power through the weak, foolish and despised of this world (1 Corinthians 1:26-29).

Spend time asking God to help you see the needs around you and give you the strength to contribute to His kingdom through ministry.

ERICA ABELL HUINDA is a freelance writer in Springfield, Missouri. She has a Master of Arts degree in theological studies.