Biblical womanhood carries a range of interpretations, often shaped by cultural traditions, ethnic backgrounds, and doctrinal beliefs about a woman’s role in society. In a world where these perspectives vary, it is crucial to return to the unchanging foundation of Scripture to understand God’s design for women’s ministry. Titus 2:3-5 provides a clear and direct mandate for the church, calling older women to mentor and equip the younger generation in faith and godly living. This is not merely a suggestion but a command that ensures the continuity of biblical wisdom and character: Titus 2:3-5 states:

“Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.” (ESV)

The Bible offers numerous examples of women whose lives highlight their influence, the use of their spiritual gifts, and the unique roles they played in God’s plan. In the lives of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, we see living examples of how women’s ministry reflects the very essence of this command. The ministries of Mary and Elizabeth highlight the importance of mentorship, spiritual wisdom, and faithful living as outlined in Titus 2.

Mary, the mother of Jesus, embodies the heart of godly submission, humility, and obedience to God’s calling. Her ministry can be seen in the way she fully surrendered to God’s will, even when it was challenging. At the core of Mary’s ministry was her willingness to be used by God for His greater purpose, all while nurturing the Son of God.

Mary’s ministry is significant in that she provided an example of purity, faithfulness, and reverence. As a young woman, she displayed self-control and obedience in her response to the angel’s announcement that she would conceive Jesus. Her example is a powerful reflection of Titus 2, as she shows how women are called to live self-controlled and pure lives, submitting to God’s design with humility. Her nurturing of Jesus was not only as a mother but as a spiritual guide, influencing His life through her unwavering faith.

Additionally, Mary’s ministry is evident in her role in supporting others. In Luke 1:39-56, when she visits Elizabeth, Mary offers encouragement and shared joy in God’s promises. This moment exemplifies the Titus 2 model of older and younger women supporting one another, even though Mary was younger. Mary’s ministry involved both direct guidance as a mother and spiritual fellowship with others.

Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, also played a vital role in fulfilling the principles laid out in Titus 2. In her life, we see the embodiment of spiritual wisdom, encouragement, and mentorship. Elizabeth’s role was to provide guidance and support, especially to Mary when she was unsure and in need of encouragement. Elizabeth’s ministry is marked by her deep faith and ability to discern God’s work in the lives of others.

When Mary visited Elizabeth, it was Elizabeth who recognized the significance of Mary’s pregnancy and spoke words of blessing and affirmation. Luke 1:42-45 reveals Elizabeth’s powerful declaration to Mary, acknowledging the greatness of the child she was carrying. In this moment, Elizabeth’s spiritual maturity and wisdom played a crucial role in mentoring and encouraging Mary during a time of uncertainty. Elizabeth’s willingness to mentor and guide Mary, even though she was significantly older, exemplifies the Titus 2 principle of older women instructing and encouraging younger women in godliness.

Furthermore, Elizabeth’s life exemplified reverence and purity as she was a righteous woman, living faithfully even in her old age, awaiting the fulfillment of God’s promise to her. Her ministry was not just in guiding others, but also in her deep devotion to prayer and trust in God’s timing. In this way, Mary and Elizabeth represent the heart of women’s ministry: nurturing faith, living out godly principles, and mentoring others in love and truth. 

Together, these women model how older and younger women in the faith are to support and uplift one another, ensuring the transmission of godly wisdom and strength through generations. As women, if we are to remain Christ like in our approach to life, then it is imperative that we stay close to biblical teachings even though it differ from our ethnic and our cultural backgrounds. This is what makes the women’s ministry quite very essential in God’s kingdom mandate. 

What Makes Women’s Ministry Essential?