Does the Bible Hate Women?
This article has been taken from the transcript of the same content at Whiskey and the Writings found here.
The question of whether the Bible hates women is one that arises when reading certain passages that seem to marginalize women, treat them as property, or undervalue them. However, this question isn't just about what the Bible says—it’s also shaped by how women have experienced church communities over the centuries.
So, does the Bible really hate women? The short answer is no. In fact, when we examine Scripture closely, we find a very different narrative—one that upholds the dignity, value, and essential role of women in God’s story. Let’s explore three key areas that provide insight into how the Bible truly views women: Creation in Genesis, Jesus' treatment of women, and the early church’s inclusion of women in ministry.
Genesis 1: Equality from the Beginning
A foundational place to start is Genesis 1:27:
"Then God created humankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them, male and female he created them." (NET)
This passage establishes that both male and female are created in the image of God, equally bearing His likeness. There is no hierarchical distinction in their identity as image-bearers. While some Bible translations may read "man" instead of "humankind," the Hebrew term used here, adam, refers to humanity as a whole, not just a singular male individual.
This verse sets the trajectory for how we should understand the role and worth of women in the biblical narrative. Whatever brokenness and injustice we see later in the Bible’s history—including the mistreatment of women—is not a reflection of God’s design, but rather the result of human sin and culture deviating from God’s intention.
Jesus and Women: Radically Countercultural
If we want to understand God’s heart for women, we must look at Jesus, who is God in the flesh. Jesus’ interactions with women were revolutionary in a society where women were often marginalized.
Luke’s Gospel, in particular, highlights women more than any other Gospel. For example, Luke 8:1-3 mentions that Jesus’ ministry was financially supported by women—something unheard of in that time. Additionally, Jesus frequently engaged with, taught, and valued women in ways that defied cultural norms.
One powerful example is the story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10:38-42. Mary chose to sit at Jesus' feet and learn from Him, a position traditionally reserved for male disciples. When Martha expressed frustration that Mary wasn’t helping with household duties, Jesus responded:
"Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things, but one thing is needed. Mary has chosen the best part; it will not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:41-42, NET)
By affirming Mary’s choice, Jesus made it clear that women were just as welcome as men to be His disciples and learn from Him.
The Early Church and Women in Leadership
The early church continued Jesus' radical inclusion of women. On Pentecost (Acts 2:17-18), Peter quoted the prophet Joel, emphasizing that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit included women:
"‘In the last days,’ God says, ‘I will pour out my Spirit on all people, and your sons and your daughters will prophesy… Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy.’"
Women were not only part of the early church; they were actively ministering. For instance, Priscilla and Aquila were a married couple who worked alongside Paul in ministry. Notably, in Acts 18:26, Priscilla’s name is listed first, indicating she likely played a leading role in their ministry. The couple took a prominent preacher, Apollos, aside and corrected his theology—an act of spiritual leadership.
Additionally, Paul’s letters mention many women serving in key leadership roles:
Phoebe (Romans 16:1-2) is described as a deacon.
Junia (Romans 16:7) is noted as "outstanding among the apostles."
Lydia (Acts 16:14-15) played a foundational role in the Philippian church.
But What About Paul’s Restrictive Verses?
Some of Paul’s writings—such as 1 Corinthians 14:34-35 and 1 Timothy 2:11-12—have been used to argue that women should be silent in church and not hold leadership positions. However, these passages must be read in context and alongside Paul’s actions.
If Paul truly believed women should be silent, why did he affirm and work alongside female leaders? The answer likely lies in specific cultural and situational issues in the churches he was addressing rather than a universal command for all time.
Conclusion: The Bible Uplifts Women
Does the Bible hate women? No. The Bible reveals that from creation, through Jesus’ ministry, and into the early church, women have been valued, included, and empowered in God’s redemptive plan.
The mistreatment of women throughout history is not a reflection of God’s will, but rather human distortion of His intent. The Bible offers a vision of men and women as co-laborers, equally bearing God's image and working together for His Kingdom.
If this is an area of struggle or curiosity for you, I encourage you to read Luke’s Gospel and Acts with fresh eyes, looking for how God values and includes women. And stay tuned, as we’ll explore more of these conversations in future discussions.
If you found this helpful, like, share, and comment below—let’s continue this conversation!
