From the pulpit, I spoke decrees out loud. Then, I read the Biblical promises of coming unity in the body of Christ and enumerated the hidden things that would now become manifest. As a woman prophet, priest, and king, my presence became new authority to replace the long standing errors that have held women in hostage in their homes and their churches.

In my little bag was packed the wine, a glass, and bread. And there… upon that long held bastion, I served communion to the other lady (whom I had brought along for that purpose) -- forever re-establishing the proper stance for the equality of women.

It has been extremely exciting to watch the recent progress of women’s freedoms that they have obtained in ministry! Fortunately, we see many of these restrictions gradually improving – some women are regaining full leadership. But more and more must come forward. That stained glass ceiling that has kept most of us from full service is broken. How do we pass through it? We press through the shattered shards -- not with defensive arguments. Not with a chip on our shoulder. But with TRUTH that responds to the Lord’s direction through Love.

A NEW WINDOW of SAFTEY GLASS:

Biblical Church government clearly establishes a theocratic type of rule, which is unbreakable (safety glass). That correct principle is: God selects leaders and then equips them to rule -- according to His will. The word “authority” in Greek means, “to beget, project, and stand forth with power and dignity.”

Jesus explained that ALL AUTHORITY in heaven and on earth was given to Him (Matt. 28:18-20). He gave that same authority to His disciples (Luke 9:1). Now He leaves it up to us to activate that dominion where we live. Our authority comes from using His name – not from ourselves. All believers can totally experience this full authority.

Sure we think differently. Men and women are supposed to be different. That’s an asset that we can use productively. Authority provides the essential order and guidance that enables other believers to mature and find answers. However, the greatest enigma most clergywomen ever have is actually walking in their God given authority, or “taking the oversight” that has been given to them. They hesitate to take it. That’s why every leader must be firmly aware of what Christ has already accomplished for all humankind.

Solid leadership requires the competence to believe in your right to minister and then stand firmly behind it. This doesn’t mean you should stand alone, but be a part of an integral team of equals who provide checks and balances for one another. The church needs both men and women who are content with their being, and able to communicate fresh insight into roles of position. Many cultural and theological changes will occur as they begin to move into the emancipation of God’s liberty.

THE WINDOW OF READINESS:

It’s indisputably clear; the Holy Spirit of God doesn’t manifest His power differently because of the gender of the preacher. Women don’t just minister in God's permissive will, but in God’s perfect will. Astounding works of the Spirit have come through men, women, and children. We must ask ourselves, “If the Holy Ghost doesn't distinguish gender/race/class/age then why should we?”

Both men and women must consciously strive to overcome ingrained attitudes that have led to distancing and distrust. That’s why our goal shouldn’t be to convince others that we’re gifted or called. We must know who we are, and just be that person. We can’t decide to “call” ourselves, or grapple for recognition. Only God enables. We aren’t set apart just to challenge the system, or merely to debate rights. We must get that chip off our shoulder, and be filled with fruits of the Spirit. We can’t let our culture or our society keep us from our calling

Even though Jesus knew that a prophet wasn’t recognized in his own hometown, He continued to declare the Gospel there. You might not be accepted either, but God’s Presence invades the work that springs forth from obedience. Jeremiah 20:9 explains God's call, “...But His Word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay (quiet).” If He’s in your blood, if you (male or female) wake and sleep to serve Him, then you’re targeted for miracles!

Dr. Spake is a traveling minister and a member of the “International Coalition of Apostles.” Some information in this article is derived from this author’s book, “From Enmity to Equality.” Further information is available in the book store.

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