The Role of Women in Jesus’ Ministry
Jesus’ teachings on the role of women have been a subject of much debate and discussion. While some argue that He valued women highly and demonstrated a clear role distinction between men and women, others question the significance of this distinction or attribute it to cultural or temporary circumstances.
Breaking Social Customs
Jesus was not afraid to challenge social norms when He felt it necessary. He criticized Pharisees publicly (Matthew 23:13-36), healed on the Sabbath (Mark 1:21-27; Luke 13:14; John 5:8-10), and cleansed the temple (John 2:14-17; Matthew 21:12-13). He also spoke to the Samaritan woman (John 4:7-9), ate with tax collectors and sinners (Matthew 9:11), and ate with unwashed hands (Mark 7:1-23). These actions demonstrate that Jesus did not bend to cultural pressure when moral issues were at stake.
The Selection of Apostles
Jesus chose only men as His apostles, which has led to much debate about the role of women in leadership positions. However, this decision was not based on cultural or social customs. In fact, Jewish culture did accept women into positions of leadership, as seen in the examples of Queen Alexandra, Deborah, and Athaliah.
The Functions of Apostles
Apostleship involved leadership, rulership, and the reception of special revelation. The apostles were to be with Christ, learn from Him, and be trained firsthand (Mark 3:14-15). They were also the official leaders in the early church (Acts 2:14; 5:12, 18, 40, 42; 6:2-4; 9:29; 15:2; Galatians 1:17). Special rulership was committed to the apostles, who would sit on twelve thrones ruling over the twelve tribes of Israel (Matthew 19:28; Luke 22:30).
The Role of Women in the Church
While women were not chosen as apostles, they played an important role in the church. They gave to Christ, served Him, fellowshipped with Him, accompanied Him, learned from Him, prayed, and testified of their salvation and of Christ’s resurrection. However, no woman was called, commissioned, or named as an apostle, or performed in the role of an apostle.
Addressing Objections
Some argue that if Jesus’ choice of male apostles signifies that females should not be leaders in the church, then consistently His choice also signifies that Gentiles should not be leaders in the church. However, this argument is invalid, and the conclusion is unproven. Historically, we know that Gentiles did occupy eldership positions in scores of “Gentile” churches founded by Paul.
Male Leadership in the Church
The selection of male apostles was not based on cultural or social customs, but rather on God’s plan to bring salvation through the Jews. With the resurrection, Christ’s mission expanded to include Gentiles, and Gentiles rapidly came to assume leadership in the church. However, male leadership was perpetuated by those whom Christ initially taught, trained, and to whom He committed the future leadership of His church.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jesus valued women highly and demonstrated a clear role distinction between men and women. While women played an important role in the church, male leadership was established by Christ and perpetuated by those whom He taught and trained. This distinction is not based on cultural or social customs, but rather on God’s plan for the church.
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