Women as Leaders?

The question I have found myself answering is: What can women of the Old Testament/New Testament teach us about leadership? In some of the most crucial passages of the bible, a woman always appears. Why is this? There has to be a reason for this significance considering that the cultural context of women within the Old and/or New Testament era. In the course of our study, we have learned that ANE documents often validate the classification of women during this period. This also explains some of the passages in scripture why it is more male focused than co-gendered focus. I think this helps clarify some of the ambigutity that may exist surround some of the women mentioned, however it does not negate their importance; even though they were typically viewed as second class or as property.

For instance, let us consider Miriam. Miriam, Moses sister was classified as a prophet and some sort of leader within the nation of Israel. In almost every scenario we learn of Miriam she is leading out in worship or in some other capacity. In Exodus 15:20 says "Then Miriam the prophet, Aaron’s sister, took a timbrel in her hand, and all the women followed her, with timbrels and dancing." Why is Miriam leader? What do we learn from her? We are able to learn of a leader who rejoiced in the Lord, and possessed the capability to inspire people to follow her actions. We also learn and she was not immune to committing sin. This is a theme that is often repeated with men Like David, Moses, Jacob, Solomon, Peter, and others we consider to be pillars of the bible.

What about women such as Esther and Deborah? Both of these women found themselves in powerful positions to lead their nation. It would not make sense from an anthropological/historical perspective for a women to lead a nation-- nonetheless into battle. I found this particularly interesting in light of learning of the Yhwh (God) of War when we discussed the books of Judges and Joshua. God was a warrior and gave individuals like Joshua and the armies very clear directions to conquer the promise land. And yet... instead of men being raised up to lead, we learn that God used these two women to arouse his chosen people to have faith and to courage to fight against those who wish to destroy them.

What about Naomi? Is it too far stretched to say that she becomes a spiritual leader for her family (for Ruth)? She provides instructions and guidance on the Jewish life. When I look at Naomi, I learn of a women who maintained faith and hope even in the depths of her despair. I learn of a women who was a leader in her own right that had to persevere. The story is not just about two women finding a Kinsman redeemer in Boaz. It is about leader (naomi) and student (Ruth) who was willing to submit not only to a leader, but To God.

Then when I think of the New Testament, I think of the profound influence women had on the ministry of Jesus. I think of the women being Last at the Cross and First at the Tomb. Why did Jesus first reveal himself to the women and not to the disciples? The only thing that I can begin to explain is that throughout the life and Death of Christ, the women never wavered in their faith in their Rabbi -- Jesus-- The Messiah! And for that they were rewarded with the great prize of learning/seeing his Resurrection first. I think this only validates the scripture even more! In a time when women were shunned or oppressed, the Gospel News came from a group of Women. How ironic!!!!!

Throughout the Bible I have found that the theme of women is while they remained in the shadows, the Lord brought them to the forefront so we could learn of commitment, devotion, love, faith and courage from a different perspective..