The Woman’s Place in God’s Kingdom By General Deborah Green
Key Scripture:
“HEAR THIS WORD, you cows (women) of Bashan, who are in the mountain of Samaria, who oppress the poor, who crush the needy, who say to their husbands, Bring, and let us drink! The LORD has sworn by His holiness, that behold, the days shall come upon you, when they shall take you away with hooks, and the last of you with fishhooks. And you shall go out through the breaches (made in the city’s wall), every woman straight before her, and you shall be cast forth into Harmon (an unknown place of exile), says the LORD.” (Amos 4:1-3)
Introduction: A Call to Accountability
In today’s world, women enjoy privileges, comforts, and freedoms more than ever before in history. With greater access to education, financial independence, and societal equality, many women have become comfortable, complacent, and often disconnected from the true calling of God. But what does the Lord say about these women? How does He view their priorities, their lifestyles, and their responsibilities? This article examines the biblical perspective on women’s role in God's kingdom, the dangers of complacency, and the urgent call for Christian women to fulfill their divine purpose.
1. God’s Indictment Against Complacent Women
Amos 4:1-3 provides a strong warning about the dangers of complacency and materialism. The women of Bashan are rebuked for their oppression of the poor and their indifference toward the needy, consumed only with their own pleasures. These women have distanced themselves from the compassion of God, and as a result, they face judgment. This scripture highlights the importance of not allowing self-indulgence and carelessness to take over our lives, especially when it comes to our treatment of others and our responsibilities before God.
Isaiah 32:9-11 further echoes this rebuke, with God warning the women who are "at ease" and "careless." These women, living in luxury and security, will face upheaval as God removes their comforts. This passage reminds us that a life of complacency, marked by ease and materialism, ultimately leads to spiritual emptiness and judgment. Women are called to be vigilant, to take responsibility, and to actively seek God’s will, even in times of abundance and ease.
2. The Role of Women in God's Kingdom
The Bible makes it clear that the calling of women in God’s kingdom has not changed. Titus 2:3-5 speaks to women’s role in nurturing their homes, teaching younger women, and being active in the work of the Lord. Women are meant to be handmaidens of God, serving Him faithfully, rather than being consumed by the things of the world. Christian women have a responsibility to labor in God’s harvest, using their time, resources, and talents for His glory, not for selfish pursuits.
Proverbs 31:10-31 paints a beautiful picture of a godly woman who fears the Lord and works diligently for the good of her family and community. This woman is industrious, wise, and generous, embodying the true nature of what it means to labor for God’s kingdom.
3. The Consequences of Neglecting God’s Call
In today’s culture, women often face the temptation to focus on self-gain, career success, or personal pleasure, sidelining their spiritual duties. Luke 12:48 reminds us that "to whom much is given, much will be required." With the comforts and privileges many women now enjoy, there is an even greater responsibility to serve the Lord and fulfill His calling. Women are called to engage in God’s mission, reaching out to those who are perishing and doing the work of evangelism and discipleship.
James 4:17 warns, “Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn’t do it, sins.” Christian women must reflect on how they use their time and whether they are living for the things of the world or the things of God.
4. The Legacy of Faithful Women
In history, many women have been dedicated to the service of the Lord despite hardship and sacrifice. Our foremothers worked tirelessly, often with little resources, to nurture families, care for others, and spread the Gospel. 2 Timothy 1:5 speaks of Timothy’s mother and grandmother, both of whom imparted their faith to him. Their legacy of faithfulness continues to impact future generations.
Women today are called to carry on this legacy, not living in comfort and complacency, but working fervently to rescue the perishing and share the love of Christ. 1 Peter 4:10-11 teaches that each of us should use whatever gifts we have received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.
Summary
The Bible holds women accountable for their role in God’s kingdom. Complacency, materialism, and neglect of spiritual responsibilities will lead to judgment. Women are called to be servants of the Lord, laboring in His vineyard, serving their families, and reaching out to the lost. Just as the women of Bashan faced God's judgment for their careless living, modern women must recognize their accountability before God and live with purpose, serving Him wholeheartedly.
Conclusion: The Call to Action
The woman's place in the Kingdom of God remains unchanged: to serve, to labor, and to spread the Gospel. Christian women must rise up from complacency, focus on fulfilling their divine calling, and use their time, talents, and resources for the glory of God. The Lord is holding women accountable for how they spend their days—whether in selfish pursuit or in faithful service. As God continues to call women into His service, it is up to each woman to answer that call, to rescue the perishing, and to labor in God’s Kingdom. Will you step forward and answer the call, or will you continue in ease, neglecting your responsibility before God?
