The Revolutionary Treatment of Women by Jesus
In ancient Roman and Jewish societies, women were often relegated to second-class citizenship. However, Jesus’ approach to women was radically different from that of his contemporaries. His treatment of women was revolutionary for its time, and it continues to inspire and empower women today.
Recognizing the Intrinsic Value of Women
Jesus recognized that women have an intrinsic value equal to that of men. He taught that women are created in the image of God, just like men, and that they possess the same qualities of self-awareness, personal freedom, and responsibility. In Matthew 19:4, Jesus quotes Genesis 1:27, saying, “At the beginning, the Creator ‘made them male and female.’” This statement affirms the equal value and dignity of both men and women.
Treating Women as Fellow Human Beings
Jesus treated women as fellow human beings, rather than as objects of male desire or inferior beings. He addressed women directly and publicly, which was unusual for a man to do in those times. The disciples were amazed when Jesus spoke with the Samaritan woman at the well of Sychar (John 4:7-26). He also spoke freely with the woman taken in adultery (John 8:10–11) and with many other women throughout the Gospels.
Speaking with Thoughtfulness and Care
When Jesus spoke to women, he did so with thoughtfulness and care. He addressed them tenderly, using titles such as “daughter” (Matthew 9:22; Mark 5:34; Luke 8:48). He also referred to the bent woman as a “daughter of Abraham” (Luke 13:16), thereby according her a spiritual status equal to that of men.
Holding Women Accountable
Jesus did not gloss over sin in the lives of women. He held them personally responsible for their own sin, as seen in his dealings with the woman at the well (John 4:16–18), the woman taken in adultery (John 8:10–11), and the sinful woman who anointed his feet (Luke 7:44–50). However, he also offered them forgiveness and the opportunity to start anew.
Empowering Women
Jesus’ treatment of women was empowering and liberating. He recognized their worth and dignity, and he gave them the opportunity to serve him and to spread the gospel. Women responded warmly to Jesus’ ministry, and they played a crucial role in the early Christian church.
A Model for Modern Women
Jesus’ treatment of women is a model for modern women to follow. Women can find rich fulfillment in serving Christ, just as the Marys and Marthas of Judea, or the Joannas and Susannas of Galilee, did. By recognizing the intrinsic value of women and treating them with thoughtfulness and care, Jesus showed us how to live out our faith in a way that honors and empowers women.
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