Within the Christian faith, there has long been debate and contemplation regarding the role of women in preaching and ministry. Examples of women who courageously spoke out for God, gave prophetic words, and were instrumental in furthering His kingdom may be found throughout the Bible.
The Bible shows that women were active participants in spreading God’s Word, not passive spectators, as seen by Miriam’s song of victory and Priscilla’s teaching alongside her husband. We can better comprehend how God has used and still uses women as potent messengers of His truth by looking at Bible passages about women preaching.
Many women who played a significant role in sharing the gospel are highlighted in the New Testament. Mary Magdalene was the first to proclaim the good news since she was the first to say that Jesus had risen. While Priscilla is credited with more precisely teaching Apollos the ways of the Lord, Phoebe, a deacon, was responsible for delivering Paul’s message to the Romans.
These stories demonstrate how God has given women the responsibility of spreading the gospel and carrying out His plan. Their voices were far from constrained; they brought clarity, hope, and vitality to the early church and beyond.
Studying Bible passages about female preachers offers the modern church balance, knowledge, and encouragement. It enables us to identify how God’s plan for preaching and teaching plays out in various circumstances while also honoring the biblical examples of obedient women. These verses provide encouragement and fortitude to women who are called to proclaim His Word. They serve as a reminder to the larger body of Christ that the gospel is too great to be limited to a single voice and should be shared by everyone who is filled with the Spirit.
40 Inspiring Bible Verses About Women Preaching (2025)
1. Acts 18:26
“He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more accurately.”
This passage highlights Priscilla’s pivotal role in teaching and clarifying God’s Word alongside her husband Aquila. Her example shows that women actively participated in ministry and were entrusted with instructing others in spiritual truths. The verse emphasizes the value of guidance, mentorship, and the boldness to correct and teach with wisdom, reinforcing that women have a significant role in God’s work of communication and discipleship.
2. Romans 16:1-2
“I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church at Cenchreae. I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of his people and to give her any help she may need from you, for she has been the benefactor of many people, including me.”
Phoebe’s recognition as a deacon demonstrates that women held formal roles of ministry and service in the early church. Her commendation by Paul underscores the trust and responsibility given to women to lead, serve, and support the community of believers. This verse encourages us to honor and affirm women who preach, teach, and serve faithfully in God’s mission.
3. Acts 21:9
“He had four unmarried daughters who prophesied.”
The mention of Philip’s daughters prophesying highlights that women were active participants in conveying God’s messages. Their role in prophecy illustrates that spiritual gifting and the calling to speak God’s truth were not limited by gender. This verse inspires recognition of women as vessels through which God communicates, encouraging the Church to embrace their voices in ministry.
4. Joel 2:28
“And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions.”
God’s promise of the Spirit being poured out on all people explicitly includes daughters, affirming that women are equally called to prophecy and speak under divine inspiration. This verse empowers women to embrace their spiritual gifts, reminding the Church that ministry is not confined to men but is open to anyone God equips.
5. 1 Corinthians 11:5
“But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head—it is the same as having her head shaved.”
Paul acknowledges that women actively participated in prayer and prophecy within the assembly. While cultural customs dictated practices like head coverings, the recognition of women prophesying affirms their engagement in spiritual leadership. This verse reinforces that women’s voices were present and influential in the life of the early Church.
6. Judges 4:4-5
“Now Deborah, a prophet, the wife of Lappidoth, was leading Israel at that time. She held court under the Palm of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim, and the Israelites went up to her to have their disputes decided.”
Deborah stands out as both a prophet and a judge in Israel, demonstrating that women held positions of spiritual and civic authority. Her leadership shows that God equips women to guide, teach, and even command nations. This verse is a powerful example of women preaching, teaching, and making critical decisions under God’s guidance.
7. Luke 8:1-3
“After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene), Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household, Susanna, and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.”
This passage highlights women as active followers of Jesus who not only supported His ministry but also participated in spreading His message. It affirms that women were integral in preaching the good news, showing that ministry is a shared responsibility among men and women in God’s mission.
8. Acts 2:17-18
“‘In the last days,’ God says, ‘I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy.’”
This prophecy from Joel, cited by Peter during Pentecost, reiterates that women are included in God’s promise to speak and prophesy under the Spirit. It validates the divine call for women to preach, teach, and share God’s Word as part of the Church’s mission.
9. Acts 16:13-15
“On the Sabbath, we went outside the city gate to the river, where we expected to find a place of prayer. We sat down and began to speak to the women who had gathered there. One of those listening was a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message.”
Lydia’s story demonstrates the influence of women in spiritual communities and their readiness to engage with God’s Word. Her openness and leadership in hosting gatherings show that women were active participants in ministry and preaching, even in leadership and hospitality roles.
10. 1 Timothy 2:11-12
“A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet.”
Though often cited in discussions about women teaching, this passage must be understood in context, addressing specific local church issues. It reminds us of the need for wisdom, discernment, and cultural awareness in ministry. Even so, other scriptures affirm women preaching and prophesying under God’s authority.
11. Philippians 4:2-3
“I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.”
Euodia and Syntyche are acknowledged for contending alongside Paul in spreading the Gospel. This recognition shows that women actively engaged in ministry work, teaching, and preaching, reinforcing their significant role in advancing God’s Word.
12. Romans 16:7
“Greet Andronicus and Junia, my fellow Jews who have been in prison with me. They are outstanding among the apostles, and they were in Christ before I was.”
Junia is noted as “outstanding among the apostles,” which many scholars interpret as a recognition of her leadership and ministry role. This verse affirms that women were not only participants but also leaders in preaching and spreading the Gospel.
13. Mark 5:18-20
“As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. Jesus did not let him, but said, ‘Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.’ So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And the people were amazed. Meanwhile, the healed woman, who had been suffering for twelve years, also went and told everyone what Jesus had done for her.”
The healed woman’s testimony demonstrates that preaching the Gospel can take many forms, including personal witness. Her boldness in sharing her story exemplifies how women serve as vessels of God’s message, inspiring others through their experiences.
14. Luke 10:38-42
“As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. ‘Martha, Martha,’ the Lord answered, ‘you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.’”
Mary’s position at Jesus’ feet illustrates the importance of women learning, reflecting, and absorbing the Word before sharing it. Her posture demonstrates that women were encouraged to engage directly with Scripture, equipping them to teach and minister effectively.
15. Matthew 28:7
“Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.”
The angel’s instruction to the women at the tomb to preach the resurrection underscores the first preaching mission in Christian history being entrusted to women. This moment sets a precedent for women as primary witnesses and proclaimers of the Gospel, validating their role in ministry.
16. John 4:28-30
“Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, ‘Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?’ They came out of the town and made their way toward him.”
The Samaritan woman at the well demonstrates the power of personal testimony in preaching. By sharing her encounter with Jesus, she led many to hear the Gospel. This passage shows that women’s voices and stories are instrumental in spreading God’s message and drawing others to faith.
17. Acts 9:36-39
“In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas), who was always doing good and helping the poor. About that time she became sick and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upstairs room. Lydda was near Joppa; so when the disciples heard that Peter was in Lydda, they sent two men to him, urging him, ‘Please come at once!’ Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was still with them.”
Dorcas’ ministry through service illustrates that preaching extends beyond spoken words. Her acts of love and service communicated God’s truth and care to her community, highlighting that women can minister and preach through both action and example.
18. Acts 21:8-9
“Leaving the next day, we reached Caesarea and stayed at the house of Philip the evangelist, one of the Seven. He had four unmarried daughters who prophesied.”
Philip’s daughters prophesying emphasizes that spiritual gifting was given to women as well as men. Their role shows that God equips women to share His Word and lead in spiritual matters, encouraging their inclusion in active ministry.
19. Galatians 3:28
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
This verse affirms the spiritual equality of men and women in Christ. When it comes to preaching, teaching, and ministry, gender does not limit one’s calling. Women are equally called to serve, lead, and proclaim God’s Word.
20. 1 Corinthians 14:31-33
“For you can all prophesy in turn so that everyone may be instructed and encouraged. The spirits of prophets are subject to the control of prophets. For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people.”
Paul’s instructions here include the principle that everyone, including women, may prophesy in an orderly manner for the edification of the Church. It shows that preaching and sharing God’s revelation is meant to build up the body, and women play a vital role in this process.
21. Luke 24:9-10
“On the evening of that first day of the week, the women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed Joseph and saw the tomb and how his body was laid in it. Then they went home and prepared spices and perfumes. But Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others told the apostles what they had seen and heard.”
The women at the resurrection were the first to deliver the good news to the apostles. Their testimony emphasizes that women were trusted to proclaim pivotal moments in God’s plan, establishing a precedent for women preaching the Gospel.
22. 2 Kings 22:14
“Hilkiah the priest, Ahikam, Achbor, Shaphan, and Asaiah went to speak to the prophetess Huldah, who was the wife of Shallum the keeper of the wardrobe. She lived in Jerusalem, in the Second District. They came to her, and she said to them, ‘This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says…’”
The prophetess Huldah was sought for divine guidance, demonstrating that women were respected for their prophetic insight. Her role affirms that God’s call to speak and instruct His people transcends gender.
23. Judges 5:7
“The villagers in Israel would not fight; they held back until I, Deborah, arose, until I arose, a mother in Israel.”
Deborah’s leadership in both prophecy and military guidance illustrates that women can hold positions of authority in delivering God’s message. Her courage and wisdom exemplify the role of women preaching and leading under God’s direction.
24. Matthew 28:10
“Then Jesus said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.’”
Jesus directly commissions women to deliver the resurrection message to the disciples. This reinforces that women were entrusted with foundational preaching tasks in the early Church, validating their role as proclaimers of God’s Word.
25. Luke 1:45
“Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”
Mary’s faith and acceptance of God’s plan demonstrate that women play a key role in God’s narrative and ministry. Her trust in God’s Word positions her as an example of receiving, living, and proclaiming God’s message faithfully.
26. Luke 1:46-48
“And Mary said: ‘My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed.’”
Mary’s song of praise, known as the Magnificat, is a profound example of preaching through testimony and proclamation. By speaking God’s truth boldly, she models how women can communicate divine messages and inspire faith across generations.
27. Acts 2:1-4
“When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.”
At Pentecost, the Spirit was poured out on all believers, including women. This universal outpouring affirms that women are empowered by the Holy Spirit to preach, prophesy, and proclaim God’s Word effectively.
28. Revelation 2:20
“Nevertheless, I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophet. By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols.”
Even in warning, this verse confirms that women held prophetic roles in the early Church. It illustrates that women’s influence in teaching and preaching was recognized—both positively and negatively—showing the authority and responsibility inherent in such positions.
29. 1 Corinthians 11:5-6
“But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head—it is the same as having her head shaved. For if a woman does not cover her head, she might as well have her hair cut off; but if it is a disgrace for a woman to have her hair cut off or her head shaved, then she should cover her head.”
Paul acknowledges women actively praying and prophesying in the congregation. The instruction on head coverings reflects cultural norms rather than restricting women’s spiritual authority, affirming their role in public ministry and preaching.
30. Exodus 15:20-21
“Then Miriam the prophet, Aaron’s sister, took a timbrel in her hand, and all the women followed her, with timbrels and dancing. Miriam sang to them: ‘Sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted. Both horse and driver he has hurled into the sea.’”
Miriam’s leadership in worship and prophetic song demonstrates women proclaiming God’s deeds boldly. She shows that preaching can take the form of song, testimony, and public celebration of God’s glory.
31. Judges 11:29-31
“Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jephthah. He made a vow to the Lord and said, ‘If you give the Ammonites into my hands, whatever comes out of the door of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites will be the Lord’s, and I will sacrifice it.’”
While this passage focuses on Jephthah, later texts highlight the role of women in prophetic lamentation and declaration. Women contributed to the spiritual and moral instruction of the community through prophecy and public speech.
32. Esther 4:14
“For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”
Esther’s courage to speak boldly before the king exemplifies women preaching through advocacy and leadership. Her example shows that God calls women to proclaim truth, deliver guidance, and act decisively in critical moments.
33. 2 Kings 22:14-20
“The priests, the prophets, and all the people consulted Huldah the prophetess. She said, ‘This is what the Lord says…’”
Huldah’s prophetic role confirms that women were consulted for divine instruction. Her authoritative proclamation of God’s Word to national leaders illustrates women actively preaching and teaching in significant spiritual capacities.
34. Proverbs 31:26
“She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.”
The Proverbs 31 woman exemplifies preaching through teaching and counsel. Her words are filled with wisdom and instruction, demonstrating that women can lead, encourage, and guide others through their speech.
35. Luke 7:38-50
“Then she began to wash his feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. And she kept kissing his feet and anointing them with perfume.”
The woman’s act of devotion and her declaration of love illustrate that preaching can include heartfelt testimony and instruction. Her actions speak volumes about repentance, grace, and the message of Christ’s forgiveness.
36. Matthew 1:18-25
“But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife…’”
Mary’s role in the nativity story exemplifies how God’s Word is revealed and communicated through women. Her obedience and testimony set a precedent for women proclaiming God’s plan through both life and speech.
37. Luke 1:39-45
“At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.”
Mary and Elizabeth’s encounter shows women affirming God’s Word to each other, highlighting the role of encouragement and proclamation within ministry. Their example demonstrates women’s capacity to preach and inspire faith in their communities.
38. Acts 9:36
“In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas), who was always doing good and helping the poor.”
Dorcas’ life of service communicates God’s love and truth to others, showing that women’s preaching can occur through action, generosity, and compassionate ministry alongside verbal proclamation.
39. 1 Peter 3:1-2
“Wives, in the same way, submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives.”
Women preach through their conduct, demonstrating Christlike behavior that teaches and influences others. This verse shows that preaching is not limited to speech but includes the example of a godly life.
40. Revelation 12:1-6
“A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head… She gave birth to a son, a male child, who will rule all the nations with an iron scepter.”
This symbolic woman represents the faithful community and illustrates women’s role in God’s redemptive plan. Her depiction highlights the importance of women in proclaiming and bringing forth God’s purposes, showing that women’s voices are integral to His story.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bible offers insight and motivation for women preaching. Scripture shows that women have always been essential in spreading God’s word, from the prophetesses of the Old Testament to the leaders of the New Testament who fearlessly preached the gospel. Instead of being marginalized, the Spirit magnified their voices to uplift, lead, and fortify God’s people’s faith. Understanding these instances enables us to better understand how God calls both men and women to be His witnesses and the variety of gifts found within the body of Christ.
In the end, Bible passages about female preachers serve as a reminder that the Holy Spirit, not gender, is the source of the gospel’s power. All believers are called by God’s Word to share His truth and to use their talents for His glory. These texts encourage us to accept any vessel God chooses so that His message of salvation might be shared with the world through obedient voices and willing hearts as the church works to uphold its mission.
