esus loved women. During his earthly reign, he healed (Matt. 8:14–15; 9:20–22), protected (John 8:1–11), and taught women (Luke 10:38–41; John 4:1–26) from all walks of life. They were his friends, disciples, and supporters. Women were among the last to leave his crucifixion and the first to spread the good news of the resurrection (Matt. 27:55–56; 28:1–10).
Following Jesus’ lead, the first-century church also valued women and empowered them to serve alongside men in key leadership roles: Phoebe, Junia, and Priscilla are all commended by Paul (Rom. 16:1–16). Though this represented a fundamental change from Jewish tradition, it is congruent given Jesus’ treatment of women and that the Holy Spirit descended on everyone during the miracle of Pentecost, confirming the gospel’s radical inclusivity. The early church seemed to grasp that men and women would need to partner together if they hoped to bring God’s justice and shalom to the world.
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