Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing,
But a woman who fears Yahuah, she shall be praised.
Give her of the fruit of her hands,
And let her own works praise her in the gates. – Proverbs 31:30-31
The role of women in the faith of Yahushua (Jesus) has been vital, often marked by acts of courage, service, and deep devotion. In the early years of The Way, women were not only disciples, but they also served as witnesses to His life, death, and resurrection, playing key roles in the spread of His message. From the scriptures to modern-day movements, women in the faith of Yahushua continue to inspire believers with their strength, faith, and dedication.
Women in the Ministry of Yahushua
Yahushua’s ministry was revolutionary for its inclusion of women. In the cultural context of first-century Judea, women were often marginalized or excluded from public religious life. However, Yahushua consistently broke social and religious boundaries by showing deep respect for women, highlighting their faith, and involving them in His ministry.
Example 1
One of the most notable women in Yahushua’s ministry was Mary Magdalene. A woman with a complicated past, Mary was healed by Yahushua, casting out seven demons from her life. Her unwavering devotion to Him led her to be one of His most prominent followers. Mary was present at His crucifixion and was the first to witness His resurrection, making her one of the most important figures in the tradition of The Way. Her story challenges the notion of women being secondary to men in spiritual matters and underscores the significant role women played in early called out assembly.
Example 2
Another important figure is Martha, the sister of Mary, who welcomed Yahushua into her home. While Martha is often remembered for her initial frustration with her sister’s choice to sit and listen to Yahushua rather than help her serve, she also expressed profound faith in Him. When her brother Lazarus died, Martha approached Yahushua, declaring, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who is to come into the world” (John 11:27). Her words of faith show a deep understanding of Yahushua’s divine mission and role.
Example 3
The Samaritan Woman at the Well (John 4) is another powerful example of a woman whose encounter with Yahushua transformed her life. Despite being an outcast in her own society, she engaged in a deep theological conversation with Yahushua, leading her to recognize Him as the Messiah. Her testimony to her community sparked many to believe in Yahushua. This moment underscores the significance of women as messengers of faith, breaking down barriers between cultural, religious, and gender divisions.
Women as Disciples and Leaders
In the Gospels, several women are listed as disciples and supporters of Yahushua’s ministry. Joanna, Susanna, and Mary, the mother of James are among those who supported Yahushua financially and helped in spreading His message. These women played an important role in the early movement of The Way, often accompanying Yahushua and the twelve apostles, witnessing His teachings and miracles.
Women in Yahushua’s circle were not only passive recipients of His message but were active participants in His ministry. The fact that Yahushua had women followers who were given a voice and who contributed to His work is significant because it challenges the social and religious norms of the time. Yahushua empowered these women to stand alongside men in His mission, a radical act in a patriarchal society.
The Crucifixion and Resurrection: Women as Key Witnesses
The ultimate testament to the strength of women in the faith of Yahushua comes from their role during His crucifixion and resurrection. At the moment of Yahushua’s death, most of His male disciples had fled, but the women remained by His side, standing near the cross, offering their presence and their grief. Mary, the mother of Yahushua, was there, witnessing the sacrifice of her son. Her steadfastness in the face of unimaginable pain exemplifies the depth of a mother’s love and unwavering faith.
In the resurrection story, Mary Magdalene stands out as the first person to see the risen Yahushua. He entrusted her with the task of telling the disciples, making her the first to proclaim the good news of His resurrection. This pivotal role in spreading the message of the resurrection demonstrates how Yahushua elevated women to leadership positions in the earliest moments of The Way.
Women in the Early Called Out Assembly
After Yahushua’s ascension, women continued to be integral to the growth of the early called out assembly. Priscilla, along with her husband Aquila, was a key figure in teaching and mentoring the Apostle Paul, one of the central figures in spreading the Gospel. Priscilla is often noted for her deep theological understanding and her ability to teach others, including the influential preacher Apollos (Acts 18). The partnership between Priscilla and Aquila exemplifies the vital role women played in the early community of The Way.
Phoebe, another early assembly leader, is mentioned in Paul’s letter to the Romans as a deaconess and a benefactor of many. Her role in the early called out assembly as a leader, organizer, and supporter is a testament to the essential contribution of women in the spread of the Gospel.
Conclusion
Women in the faith of Yahushua have always played a central role in the growth and transformation in the movement of The Way. From His ministry to the early called out assembly, women were instrumental in spreading His message of love, grace, and salvation. They exemplified faith, courage, and devotion, showing that women are not only equal participants in the faith but also vital leaders and witnesses to the power of Yahushua’s life, death, and resurrection. Today, their legacy continues to inspire countless women around the world to walk in faith, serve their communities, and proclaim the good news of Yahushua.
