WOMEN AND CHURCH LEADERSHIP: A BIBLICAL APPRAISAL

ABSTRACT

Gender stratification and inequality have transcends beyond social status into religion and church leadership. The female gender overtime have been seen as more of helpers rather than leaders, their position have always been second rather than first. Most times this is due to their gender inclination and disposition, hence they are looked upon with contempt in matters of leadership and rulership. However a clear analysis and exegesis of the bible do not show a clear biblical prohibition of women in the office of leadership, rather few comments made by few biblical personnel as regards women in church at a particular time have been used to be a general guideline in allowing women to access office of leadership in the church. This misconception and prejudice have to a great extent led to the stunted growth of many church organizations, and suppression of God given talents in many women. Hence, the purpose of this study was to make an apology for the leadership of women in church by analytically and descriptively unveiling their importance in the contemporary era and the bible days. It also aimed at showing the roles and duties of husbands of female church leaders. This work employed the analytical descriptive methodology. This research work revealed the following: the ideal meaning of a good church leader. The argument against the leadership of women is not biblical, rather it is birthed out of misconception and interpretation of comments made by few biblical personnel. It finally showed the feats women can achieve in the church when they are leaders using Bishop Margret Idahosa of Church of God mission International as example.