Women in Leadership

Frontmatter

Chapter 1. Introduction

Abstract

This chapter sets the foundation for readers to determine the need and vision behind Women in Leadership: Biblical and Contemporary Perspectives. Additionally, a foundational belief is set and explained to move forward in this research: diverse views on varying topics are present, but the connecting factor is the belief of the Bible as the inerrant Word of God. This book was designed to empower women and go deeper into this topic for graduate-level research to equip current and future leaders with the appropriate knowledge to move forward, leading both men and women.

Stefanie Ertel, Carlo Serrano, Steven Crowther

Chapter 2. Women in Leadership: Examining the Biblical Text and the Context

Abstract

This chapter dissects one of the most used Bible verses about women in leadership, 1 Timothy 2:11–15. If the words in this passage apply as a timeless command, there would seem to be inconsistencies within the Bible concerning women and leadership. In order to bring clarity, it is critical to look at the text within the context, and it is essential to allow Scripture to interpret Scripture. Therefore, this chapter focuses on what this passage presents through the cultural lens of that time and how that impacts the Church and women leaders today from both the business and ministry worlds.

Stefanie Ertel

Chapter 3. Women as Central to the Collective Mission of God

Abstract

This chapter invites the reader to examine the strategic place of women in the mission of God as lived out through God's organization—the church. The mission as the “main thing” is a healthy paradigm if that perspective never forgets the importance of “people” as essential agents in mission participation and fulfillment. Women are persons, and this chapter explores various examples from the Hebrew and Christian scriptures that highlight the often-unseen women at the center of God’s redemptive plan.

Carlo Serrano

Chapter 4. Beyond Riches and Rubies: A Study of Proverbs 31:10–31 and Servant Leadership

Abstract

This paper determines enhancements to servant leadership theory by comparing it to the Old Testament poem about a noble woman (Proverbs 31:10). Through intertexture analysis, an exegesis of Proverbs 31:10–31 revealed a very simple approach to servant leadership, whereby one’s character and actions for others, out of their fear of the Lord resulted in spiritual riches. When compared with scholarly research on servant leadership, the Proverbs 31 example of servant leadership enhances the theory by adding two components: an emphasis on action as behavior and servant leader growth as an outcome. It seeks to strengthen not only the research on servant leadership but to encourage today’s female leaders with a worthy model.

Elizabeth Graves

Chapter 5. Positive Gender Identity for Women in Leadership: Examining and Embracing Experiential Learning through Deborah as a Mother in Israel

Abstract

Deborah was a prophetess and judge in ancient Israel, known for her wisdom, courage, and ability to lead. Deborah’s story as described in narrative in chapter four and celebrated in poetry in chapter five in the Book of Judges provides lessons on the intersection of gender, leadership, and motherhood; for in 5:7, Deborah identified herself as a “mother in Israel.” By exploring the story of Deborah through the lens of experiential learning, valuable insight into women’s leadership is gained along with a deeper understanding of how women can thrive in leadership positions while embracing their gender identity. Conversely, examining experiential learning through the story of Deborah as a mother in Israel allows for the recognition of positive gender identity for women in leadership. The experiential learning within and gleaned from Deborah’s leadership acumen accounts supports that women can excel in leadership while staying true to their gender characteristics.

DeLoria Savoy

Chapter 6. Sensitivity and Courage: A Social and Cultural Analysis of Esther 4:13–5:8

Abstract

Esther provides an opportunity to study female leadership through a Christian perspective, highlighting how to rise to leadership from a position which inherently has little influence (Davidson, 2013). By using her social sensitivity and self-control, Esther finds the courage to self-promote and save the Jews of Persia. Through a social and cultural textural study of the King James Version of Esther 4:13–5:8, an example of spiritual, female leadership will be provided to leaders of contemporary organizations. Additionally, it will be proposed that social sensitivity be tested and added to the definition of transformational leadership to evolve the understanding of effective leadership in organizations.

Carla Smith

Chapter 7. Esther and Mordecai: Leadership Lessons from an Unnamed God

Abstract

The scriptural story of Esther provides one of the most explicit examples of God’s hand working in and through the godly and ungodly to accomplish His purposes. Oddly, His name is never mentioned and any indication of His Presence in the story is only implicit. Yet, in this story two leaders, Esther and Mordecai, emerge and are powerfully impacted by the Presence of the unnamed God. Through His Presence and orchestration of events, these two leaders learn to exercise critical elements of servant leadership. In addition, they learn that courage, wisdom, and providential timing in leadership are fueled by prayer. Furthermore, they gain a personal understanding regarding the identity of the One who orchestrated the details and timing of their lives to accomplish their good and His ultimate purpose. The lessons gleaned by Esther and Mordecai provide contemporary leaders with similar opportunities to learn and apply these same leadership principles.

Eva Christine Sorrow

Chapter 8. The Impact of Women in Leadership: Headship vs. Lordship; Position vs. Power; Honor vs. Submission; A Cultural Analysis of 1 Corinthians 11:1–16 and 1 Peter 3:1–6

Abstract

This chapter considers two specific biblical texts that contribute to the nuances that impact women in leadership, specifically women serving in leading roles within professional workspaces, family structure, and institutions of faith. Through an analysis of 1 Cor. 11:1–16 and 1 Peter 3:1–6, the chapter highlights some of the cultural, social, and ethical challenges about headship versus lordship; position versus power; and honor versus submission as it relates to women in leadership. The analysis gathered contributes to insight of the culturalization of the twenty-first-century leading woman that impacts, inspires, and compels her identity and her behaviors, her actions and reactions, and her leadership within home, community, and faith. Through the cultural analysis, this chapter identifies six principles that intersect within sectors of profession, family, and faith for women in leadership. The principles include moral agency, alignment, interdependence, honor, vision, and organizational stewardship.

Ca-Asia Lane, Joshua Henson

Chapter 9. Women and Servant Leadership: Truths and Misconceptions About Submission

Abstract

This chapter explores the often-controversial topic of submission as it relates to the popular theory of servant leadership. Since the Christian Scriptures provide a level field for men and women regarding salvation, it is important to engage and challenge theoretical assumptions continually, especially when discussing words like “submit,” “servant,” and “slave.” This chapter considers the impact of these words on women and women of color through an exegetical analysis of Ephesians 5:22 and various New Testament texts.

Carlo Serrano

Chapter 10. Great Women in Early Kingdom Work: A Cultural Contextual Analysis of Romans 16:1–16 and the Applicability of Women in Leadership in the Twenty-First Century

Abstract

This chapter examines leading women during the first-century church through a cultural context and social analysis of Romans 16:1–16. Women such as, Phoebe, Prisca, Mary, Junia, the sisters Tryphaena and Tryphosa, and Julia—all mentioned by the Apostle Paul, for their work and advancement of the Christian faith. The chapter highlights Paul’s observation of women as major participants and contributors in the building of the early church. Through the cultural analysis work, six characteristics are identified, one for each of the forementioned women in their leading roles and how the characteristics are applicable for women in leadership within the twenty-first century. Each identified characteristic—exemplar, mutuality, resilience, trailblazer, sisterhood, and community-builder—associated with each woman, respectively, further connects as leadership acumen principles for women serving in leading roles within the twenty-first century.

Ca-Asia Lane, Joshua Henson

Chapter 11. Where Are Women Today in Leadership

Abstract

This chapter provides an introductory overview of women in leadership today. First we take a look historically how women in leadership have simultaneously struggled and excelled. The historical approach includes a triad approach as we look at some examples of great women leaders, then look at a biblical approach, and then detail some modern women in leadership roles. This foundation provides a look into the modern perspective of women in leadership today, their present phenomena by understating the challenges and successes of the modern times, the stark reality of the underrepresentation of women in leadership around the world, the leadership identity crisis experienced by many women, and finally the path forward. Ultimately this chapter seeks to provide a foundation for readers to explain where we are by understanding where we have been with the undergirding of the biblical perspective to fully realize the Christian perspective in this imperative conversation.

Steve Firestone, Doris Gomez, Kathleen Patterson

Chapter 12. Female Leadership in Intercultural Contexts

Abstract

Women who serve in intercultural leadership roles encounter a multitude of complex issues that create potential barriers to effective gospel-centered leadership. Factors that influence these issues are globalization, conflicting cultural frameworks, expectations around gender norms, and others. Additionally, the experiences of women currently serving in intercultural contexts can provide perspective and insight into the global leadership process. Identifying, accessing, and utilizing creative bridges to address the intricacies of intercultural leadership is key to the success of any woman wanting to have a global impact.

Cassi Sherley Krei

Chapter 13. Women Leaders Across the Nation: A Study in a Leadership Movement

Abstract

This chapter invites the reader to study the place of women in the local church and the business world. Information from surveys and interviews was gathered specifically for this study, including a section on the theological beliefs of large and growing churches nationwide to women leaders in ministry and business. Church leadership and successful women participated in this study. Through their contributions, one can identify patterns of the current environment and needs for the church and women leaders today. A leadership movement is happening among women today! They are becoming more influential in the ministry and marketplace environments. More churches believe women can lead, some are acting this out, and others are shifting the culture to make room for women leaders. Due to the pressure on this topic, women leaders must know what they believe and how it is biblically based.

Stefanie Ertel

Chapter 14. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: A Biblical Perspective and Framework for Christian Women in Leadership

Abstract

As the business community and the world have taken steps toward diversity, inclusivity, and equality, the Christian church can appear outdated and disconnected from the outside world. Outdated doctrines and traditions without biblical backing led to women and people of color not being part of church leadership teams. Solid biblical truths prove that males and females were created in the image of God and that all people are seen through the lens of their life with Christ over any ethnicity, race, or gender. By creating space for scholarly discussion from both genders, the church will gain knowledge from both viewpoints. Once the people of God know the problem, they must take proactive steps to work toward diversity, equality, and inclusivity within the congregations and leadership teams. The path toward changing the churches’ landscape will not be a passive approach, but the changes will only occur through intentional and strategic steps.

Ashley Graves

Chapter 15. Career, Life, and Family: Do Christian Women Have to Choose

Abstract

Wives, mothers, sisters, daughters, and all women often carry a higher level of guilt than their male counterparts as they juggle the many roles they have in life. Christian women can look to Scriptural promises and examples to guide them as they strive for work and family balance. Healthy habits also set the path for women to try to limit the impact multiple stressors have on their physical, mental, and spiritual health. The world needs women’s unique and diverse perspectives in any situation, especially within the church. As leaders within the Christian community, there should be space for women to be encouraged and supported to walk into the mission given to them. In addition, there should be space for single mothers and those with limited choices to be supported and encouraged by fellow women in Christ.

Ashley Graves

Chapter 16. Beliefs and Action Steps

Abstract

Why are we still talking about women in leadership in various contexts? Why is there still a need for this? Many women have the support they need to thrive in leadership, and some today still do not. Specifically for Christians, Christian organizations, organizations highly involved within the Christian community, and the local church, it is critical for a theological line to be clearly communicated on the topic of women and leadership. Within the church and the business world, women are called to lead. God is calling us not to stray away from difficult topics, but instead, He has called us to live a life marked by His Presence, marked by His strength and not our own. Let us not shy away from this topic due to its difficulty. Let us empower both His sons and daughters to become world-changing leaders.

Stefanie Ertel

Backmatter