By Linda Evans Shepherd
I was handing out signed copies of my new warfare book at the Christian Booksellers Association when a man approached.
I smiled and held one out. “Sir, would you like a copy?”
The man rushed past but said over his shoulder, “Forbid it that a woman should teach a man.” I honestly thought he was joking. So I smiled sweetly and said, “Excuse me, sir, your mother wants to have a word with you.”
As he disappeared, my friend Joy grabbed my arm. “Linda, I don’t think he was kidding.” At first I was stunned, and then I felt happier with my response.
I have no bitterness toward those who look down on me for sharing about Jesus.
Just like the woman at the well, how can I not?
But that encounter stirred something I’ve thought about ever since: how sad it is for those believers who would silence a woman’s voice, even when that voice is simply trying to tell the good news.
The Word Comes Before the Debate
The truth is God gives the word first.
That’s what Psalm 68:11 says, “The Lord announces the word, and the women who proclaim it are a mighty throng.” The Lord announces it first. Then a great company of women go out with the news.
Not despite being women, but because they are. This is David, writing three thousand years before anyone called it controversial.
Caring an Ancient Call
Deborah led a nation. Esther saved her people. Mary Magdalene was the first to proclaim the resurrection—sent by Jesus himself to tell the disciples He was alive.
The early church was carried forward on the proclamation of women who refused to be silent. And yet here we are, still having this conversation. I say this not with anger, but with an ever-growing hope. I know precious women brave enough to tell the good news in books, on stages and podcasts— and the kingdom is richer for it.
But I’ve also watched gifted women wonder if God made a mistake when He placed a message in their hearts.
I’ve watched the church lose voices it desperately needed because someone told those voices to be quiet.
Don’t Lay It Down
Friend, if God gave you the word—don’t lay it down. Not for a denomination’s debate. Not for a man who quotes Paul without finishing the sentence. Not for a room that doesn’t yet understand what it’s losing.
The same Spirit who hovered over the waters, who fell at Pentecost on men and women alike, who breathed life into your calling—He is not confused about your gender. He gave you the word on purpose. Now go tell somebody.
Dear Lord, empower and embolden us to do all, to say all you have called us to do and say. Thank you that you trust me with a testimony to share and a voice to tell it. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
LINDA EVANS SHEPHERD is the publisher of Leading Hearts and her new book, Praying God’s Word from Christian Art Gifts, came out as a top ECPA (Evangelical Christian Publishers Association) new release.
