Introduction
When we think about preachers in the Bible, the focus often turns to well-known male figures. But what about the women? Is there a woman preacher in the Bible KJV?
Throughout the pages of the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, we find remarkable women who played vital roles in sharing God’s word, leading His people, and even preaching the gospel.
We’ll take a closer look at the first woman recorded as a preacher in the Bible, examine the difference between a preacher and a pastor, and find out who was the first woman preacher? We’ll further highlight some of the significant female figures who helped spread the gospel.
You’ll also find a complete overview of KJV Bible verses about women preachers, both from the Old Testament and the New Testament. You will find out what does the new testament say about female pastors.
Understanding these women’s roles is not just about learning history; it’s about recognizing the timeless truth that God can use anyone, regardless of gender, to accomplish His purposes.
This blog explores the lives of these women, diving into the stories of those who broke barriers and served as powerful voices for God.
Can a woman be a preacher in KJV?
This post may contain affiliate links; at no extra cost for you, I get a small commission. Read our full disclosure here or in our privacy policy.
Can a woman preach the Bible?
Many people wonder if the Bible allows women to be preachers. When we look at the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, we find it doesn’t specifically say that women cannot preach. In fact, the Bible includes several examples of women playing important roles in teaching, leading, and sharing God’s message.
While some verses talk about traditional roles for women, other parts of the Bible show women as strong leaders and messengers of the Word of God.
It’s important to remember that God has used women throughout history to accomplish His purposes. Whether it’s offering guidance, leading a nation, or sharing a message of hope, women have been key figures in the Bible. This shows us that God values the contributions of women in spreading His word, and it encourages us to see the potential for women in ministry today.
God’s standards apply to everyone in the household of God—male or female. In the sight of God, we are all the same. God equips the body of Christ with spiritual gifts through the Holy Spirit: every member, thus including women.
God equips us to do the good works He has prepared for us (Ephesians 2:10).
This blog isn’t about whether women can or cannot preach according to the Bible. God’s Word isn’t meant to be used against each other. We will simply look into the Bible KJV to learn about women preachers.
We have established that women are anointed by God to preach. Let’s look at who was the first female preacher in the Bible.
Who was the first woman to preach in the Bible?
The Bible is full of stories where women played important roles in sharing God’s message. From the beginning, women have been called by God to speak to His people, leading them with wisdom and bravery.
In this section, we’ll explore the story of the first woman who preached in the Bible. Her example paved the way for many others to share God’s word and lead His people.
But first, let’s define what a preacher in the Bible actually is.
Are a preacher and pastor the same?
To better understand whether there were women preachers in the Bible, we need to understand the difference between a preacher and a pastor. A preacher and a pastor both share God’s word, but they have different roles.
A preacher is someone who focuses on spreading the message of the Bible, often through sermons and teaching. Their main job is to share God’s truth with others, helping them understand and live by it.
A pastor, on the other hand, does more than just preach. A pastor is a leader in the church who cares for the spiritual well-being of the congregation. They not only teach and preach, but also provide guidance, support, and care to the people in their church. A pastor is like a shepherd, looking after the flock and helping them grow in their faith.
Was Deborah a preacher in the Bible?
When we look at the Bible, we see that Deborah (the wife of Lappidoth) played a very important role in sharing God’s message with the people of Israel. She was not only a judge but also a prophetess, which means she spoke on God’s behalf.
In many ways, Deborah acted as a preacher, delivering God’s instructions and leading the people with wisdom and courage. Her story shows us how God can use anyone, including women, to guide and teach others in His name.
Deborah is also the first woman preacher—preaching or sharing God’s message in the Bible. Deborah was a prophetess and a judge over Israel, and you can find her story in the book of Judges chapters 4 and 5.
She was a strong female leader who guided Israel during a difficult time when they were oppressed by their enemies. Deborah not only delivered God’s message to the people, but she also led them to victory in battle, showing that God also uses women to lead and deliver His people.
Deborah’s story is inspiring because it shows how God uses those who are willing to listen and follow Him, regardless of their gender. Her leadership and faith were crucial in bringing peace to Israel.
This reminds us that God can call anyone to serve Him, and that includes women who are called to preach and lead.
Who was the first woman to preach the gospel in the Bible?
We saw Deborah was the first woman recorded in the Bible to preach—that is, in the Old Testament times. As Christians, we can look separately at the preaching of the gospel.
Mary Magdalene is often recognized as the first woman to preach the good news of the kingdom of God. After Jesus’ resurrection, He appeared first to Mary Magdalene and gave her an important task. Jesus told her to tell the disciples that He had risen from the dead. You can read about this in John 20:17-18:
“Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God. Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things unto her.” John 20:17-18 (KJV)
This moment is significant because Mary was the first person to share the good news that Jesus had conquered death. During the biblical times she lived in, women were often seen as less and unimportant. Yet God chose a woman to be the first to reveal his resurrection.
Truly, with God, there is no partiality or discrimination based on gender. This shows God can use anyone to spread the good news, and women have a vital role to play in sharing the gospel with others.
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:28 (KJV)
Mary Magdalene’s role as the first to share the gospel is a powerful example of how God values the voices of women. She was entrusted with the most important message in Christian history, and she faithfully delivered it.
Mary Magdalene’s act of preaching the gospel serves as a powerful example for all believers, both men and women, to boldly proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. Her obedience and faithfulness in delivering the message of Jesus’ resurrection paved the way for many others to follow in her footsteps.
Throughout history, countless women have embraced their calling to preach and teach the gospel. From the early church mothers like Phoebe, Priscilla, and Junia, to modern-day female pastors, evangelists, and teachers, women continue to play a vital role in spreading God’s word and leading His people.
Mary Magdalene’s faith and dedication serve as a powerful example of a woman preacher in the Bible KJV. Let’s explore more about the stories of these remarkable women and their impact on spreading God’s word.
Was Priscilla a preacher in the Bible?
Priscilla is an important figure in the New Testament who played a key role in the early Christian church. Alongside her husband Aquila, Priscilla was deeply involved in teaching and spreading the message of the gospel.
While the Bible does not use the word “preacher” to describe her, Priscilla clearly took on responsibilities that align with preaching. One of the most notable examples of Priscilla’s ministry is found in Acts 18:24-26, where she and Aquila helped instruct Apollos, a gifted speaker, about the way of God more accurately.
This shows that Priscilla was actively involved in teaching others and helping them grow in their understanding of the faith. Her work alongside Aquila and her significant role in the early church suggest that Priscilla was indeed a preacher, sharing God’s message and guiding others in their spiritual journey.
Who were the female preachers in the Bible?
The Bible features several women who played key roles in sharing God’s message and leading others. These women serve as examples of how God uses people, regardless of gender, to fulfill His purposes and spread His word.
Old Testament – women preachers in the Bible KJV:
- Deborah: A prophetess and judge of Israel (Judges 4-5). Deborah was a strong and courageous leader who delivered God’s instructions to the people during a time of oppression. She called Barak to lead Israel’s army into battle and assured him of God’s presence. Deborah’s leadership not only led to military victory but also brought peace to the land for forty years. Her story shows that God can raise up women to lead nations and deliver His messages with authority.
- Huldah: A prophetess during the reign of King Josiah (2 Kings 22:14-20). When the Book of the Law was found in the temple, King Josiah sent his officials to consult Huldah about its meaning. Huldah responded with a powerful prophecy from God, warning of coming judgment but also acknowledging Josiah’s faithfulness. Her words influenced the king’s reforms and led to a renewed commitment to God’s law in Israel. Huldah’s role highlights how women were trusted messengers of the Word of Truth in critical moments of Israel’s history.
- Miriam: The sister of Aaron and Moses. Miriam is described as a prophetess (Exodus 15:20-21). After the Israelites crossed the Red Sea, Miriam led the women in a song of praise and worship to God, celebrating their deliverance from Egypt. While her role as a prophetess is mentioned briefly, her influence and leadership were significant during Israel’s journey out of slavery. Prophetess Miriam’s example shows how women played important roles in leading worship and spiritual encouragement among the people of Israel.
New Testament – women preachers in the Bible KJV:
- Mary Magdalene: The first to share the gospel of Jesus’ resurrection (John 20:17-18). Mary Magdalene was a devoted follower of Jesus, and after His resurrection, He appeared to her first. Jesus entrusted Mary with the task of telling the disciples about His resurrection, making her the first to preach the good news of His victory over death. Her role as the first witness to the resurrection emphasizes the importance of women in the early church and their role in proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ.
- Priscilla: A teacher and preacher alongside her husband Aquila (Acts 18:24-26; Romans 16:3). Priscilla and Aquila were tentmakers who worked closely with the Apostle Paul and were key figures in the early Christian church. Together, they hosted a church in their home and played a significant role in mentoring and teaching others. One notable instance was when they taught Apollos, a skilled preacher, and helped him understand the way of God more accurately. Priscilla’s involvement in teaching and ministry demonstrates that women were active in spreading the gospel and building the early church.
- The Four Daughters of Philip: these four unnamed daughters of Philip the evangelist were known for their gift of prophecy; mentioned in Acts 21:9. The verse states, “And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.” These women were recognized for their ability to share God’s messages, demonstrating that women were active in the spiritual life of the early church. Their role as prophets shows that God empowered women to speak His word and contribute to the spiritual growth of the early Christian community.
- Phoebe: A deaconess of the church at Cenchreae (Romans 16:1-2). Paul commends Phoebe for her service to the church and refers to her as a “servant” or “deacon” of the church. He asks the believers in Rome to welcome her and assist her in any way she needs. Phoebe is also believed to have carried Paul’s letter to the Romans, which was a significant responsibility. Her role as a deaconess highlights the leadership and service of women in the early church, showing that they were entrusted with important tasks and held positions of influence.
- Anna: A prophetess who lived during the time of Jesus’ birth (Luke 2:36-38). Anna spent her days in the temple, fasting, praying, and sharing the message of redemption with those who were waiting for the Messiah. When she saw the infant Jesus, she gave thanks to God and spoke about Him to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
- The Samaritan Woman: After her encounter with Jesus at the well (John 4:28-30, 39-42), the Samaritan woman went back to her town and told the people about Jesus, saying, “Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did.” Her testimony led many in her town to believe in Jesus, making her an early evangelist who shared the good news of the Messiah with others.
- Euodia and Syntyche: Mentioned by Paul in his letter to the Philippians (Philippians 4:2-3), Euodia and Syntyche were two women who worked closely with Paul in spreading the gospel. Paul urges them to “be of the same mind in the Lord” and recognizes them as co-laborers who, along with others, helped him in his ministry. Their involvement in spreading the gospel and working alongside Paul shows that women played active and important roles in the early Christian church.
- Nympha: Mentioned by Paul in his letter to the Colossians (Colossians 4:15), Nympha was a woman who hosted a church in her home. Paul sends greetings to “the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in her house.” Nympha’s role as the host of a house church suggests she was a leader in the Christian community, providing a space for believers to gather, worship, and learn. Her contribution highlights the active role women played in the early church, supporting and spreading the message of the gospel.
The above are the powerful examples of woman preacher in the Bible KJV. It highlights the significant contributions of women preachers in the early church and their active roles in spreading the gospel and building the Christian community. It shows the importance of women in leadership positions and ministry.
The KJV Bible also shows powerful examples of women prayer warriors and mighty female warriors!
As Christian women, we can let ourselves be inspired by the examples of the women pastors and preachers, and follow in their footsteps—to serve our Lord Christ Jesus.
Bible verses about woman preacher in the Bible KJV
Throughout the holy scriptures, we can find many verses referring to the role of women and biblical womanhood.
Here is an overview with woman preacher Bible verses in the King James version of the bible:
Old Testament
- “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.” Genesis 1:27-28 (KJV)
- “Male and female created he them; and blessed them, and called their name Adam, in the day when they were created.” Genesis 5:2 (KJV)
- “And Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, she judged Israel at that time.” Judges 4:4 (KJV)
- “So Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam, and Achbor, and Shaphan, and Asahiah, went unto Huldah the prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe; (now she dwelt in Jerusalem in the college;) and they communed with her.” 2 Kings 22:14 (KJV)
- “For I brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, and redeemed thee out of the house of servants; and I sent before thee Moses, Aaron, and Miriam.” Micah 6:4 (KJV)
- “The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it.” Psalms 68:11 (KJV)
New Testament
- “And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:” Acts 2:17-18 (KJV)
- “And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.” Acts 18:26 (KJV)
- “And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.” Acts 21:9 (KJV)
- “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:28 (KJV)
- “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers.” Ephesians 4:11 (KJV)
- “Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law.” 1 Corinthians 14:34 (KJV)
- “But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven.” 1 Corinthians 11:5 (KJV)
- “But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.” 1 Corinthians 11:3 (KJV)
- “But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.” 1 Corinthians 12:11 (KJV)
- “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word.” Ephesians 5:22-26 (KJV)
- “Commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea.” Romans 16:1 (KJV)
- “Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellow-prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.” Romans 16:7 (KJV)
- “I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord. And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life.” Philippians 4:2-3 (KJV)
- “In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array.” 1 Timothy 2:9 (KJV)
- “If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly.” Titus 1:6 (KJV)
- “The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.” Titus 2:3-5 (KJV)
Take-Away woman preacher in the Bible KJV
The Bible is filled with examples of women who preached and shared God’s message. The stories of women preachers in the Bible (KJV) remind us of the vital role that women have played in spreading God’s message throughout history.
From Deborah’s leadership role and prophetic voice in the Old Testament to Mary Magdalene’s crucial role in announcing Jesus’ resurrection, these women were more than just supportive figures—they were leaders and messengers who shaped the early church and the faith we know today.
Their stories encourage us to recognize and value the contributions of women in ministry and leadership roles. God calls and uses people from all walks of life to share His word and lead His people. Whether through teaching, prophesying, or hosting gatherings, women have been, and continue to be, essential in spreading the message of hope and salvation.
Let’s embrace and celebrate the gifts and ministries of all believers, regardless of gender, for the glory of God.