PART 23 TROUBLING THE CHRISTIAN PATRIARCHY: HISTORICAL CHRISTIAN WOMEN (WHO TROUBLED THEM)

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PART 23 TROUBLING THE CHRISTIAN PATRIARCHY
CHRISTIAN LEADER WOMEN WHO TROUBLED THESE
“Send in the LP”

Ephesians 5:21 “Mutual submission in the fear of the Lord “**

**Apostle Paul, First Church Ministry, Family, Married, Community “Respectful, Chain of Command” 

all leader, lay, servant leader persons

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NOW… CHRISTIAN LEADER WOMEN WHO TROUBLED THE LP OF THEIR DAY

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS

JOAN OF ARC

ChatGPT said:

Joan of Arc (1412–1431) was a liberator, a maven, and a singular historical figure, but she was not a matriarch in the traditional sense. Here’s why:

1. Liberator

Joan of Arc was a military leader who played a key role in the Hundred Years’ War, leading French forces to victory against the English and helping to secure the coronation of Charles VII. She was a liberator in both a national and symbolic sense, as she fought for France’s freedom under divine inspiration.

2. Maven

Joan had extraordinary knowledge and insight, particularly in military strategy and faith-based leadership, despite lacking formal training. She claimed divine visions from saints, which guided her actions, and she became an influential figure in both warfare and spiritual matters.

3. Matriarch? No.

A matriarch typically refers to a woman who leads a family, tribe, or community over time. Joan was a warrior and an inspirational leader, but she did not establish or oversee a dynasty, family, or lasting governance.

4. Part of a Matriarchy? No.

Joan of Arc lived in a strongly patriarchal society where men dominated political, military, and religious leadership. She was an anomaly, not part of a matriarchal system. Her influence was personal and divine rather than institutional.

5. Just a Single Individual?

While Joan of Arc was an individual, her impact was far greater than just one person’s actions. She became a symbol of faith, courage, and national identity, later canonized as a saint. Her legacy still inspires leaders and feminists today.

In summary, Joan of Arc was a maven and a liberator, but not a matriarch or part of a matriarchal system. She was a unique figure who defied societal norms and left an enduring legacy.

Taveau is curious and asks Chat GPT

Did Joan or Arc have or did men have, issues with Joan of Arc inside the church or outside?

Chat GPT responds:

Yes, Joan of Arc faced significant opposition from men both inside and outside the Church—politically, religiously, and militarily. Her leadership, gender, and claims of divine guidance challenged societal norms, leading to hostility from various groups.

1. Opposition from the Church and Religious Authorities

  • Clergy Skepticism: Many churchmen were suspicious of Joan’s visions and her claim that God had chosen her to lead France.
  • Condemnation as a Heretic: The pro-English Bishop Pierre Cauchon led a politically motivated church trial, accusing her of heresy, witchcraft, and wearing men’s clothing (which she did for practical reasons in battle and captivity).
  • Execution by Burning: Despite her victories for France, she was convicted by an English-controlled court and burned at the stake in 1431.

2. Opposition from Men in Politics and Military

  • French Nobles’ Jealousy: Many male military leaders resented Joan’s influence over King Charles VII. Some viewed her as a threat to traditional power structures.
  • English Hatred: The English saw her as a dangerous enemy and sought to discredit her. They used religious accusations as a political weapon.
  • King Charles VII’s Betrayal: After Joan was captured, the French king (whom she helped put on the throne) did little to rescue her, likely due to political pressure.

3. Did All Men Oppose Her?

No—many men supported her. She had devoted followers in the military, including Jean de Dunois and La Hire, and some church figures later worked to clear her name. In 1456, Pope Callixtus III overturned her conviction, declaring her a martyr.

Conclusion

Joan of Arc deeply challenged the male-dominated structures of both the Church and society, leading to her persecution. However, she also had loyal supporters who recognized her divine mission. Her trial and execution were more about power and politics than true Christian doctrine.

Taveau asks:

Can we assume that leader Joan of Arc was opposed by the Levitical Patriachy in the Church? By the Patriarchs(non religious) and in general by men, or who?

ChatGPT responds:

We can say that Joan of Arc was opposed by the patriarchy in both religious and political forms, but not necessarily by “men in general.” Her opposition came primarily from specific power structures rather than all men. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Christian Levitical Patriarchy?

  • Partially, but not entirely. Joan’s enemies in the Church, like Bishop Pierre Cauchon, were part of a rigid religious system that sought to maintain control. However, their opposition was politically motivated, as they were aligned with the English.
  • The term Levitical Patriarchy suggests a strict Old Testament priestly system, but medieval Catholicism had different structures. While churchmen did oppose her, it was more about protecting political and institutional power rather than strictly following Levitical law.

2. The Patriarchy (Secular and Religious)?

  • Yes. Joan challenged male authority in a time when women were expected to be submissive. She took on a military role, dressed as a man, and claimed direct guidance from God, all of which threatened the male-dominated status quo in both Church and State.
  • Both English and French male leaders were uneasy about her influence. Many French nobles resented her success because she outshined them on the battlefield.

3. Men in General?

  • No. Not all men opposed her—many fought alongside her. Jean de Dunois, La Hire, and other French commanders believed in her leadership. Even some clergy later worked to overturn her conviction.
  • The common French people, both men and women, saw her as a hero and a divinely appointed leader.

4. Who Specifically Opposed Her?

  • The English monarchy and military, who viewed her as a serious threat.
  • French nobles and court officials who feared her influence over King Charles VII.
  • Bishop Pierre Cauchon and English-aligned clergy, who used religious trials to justify her execution.
  • King Charles VII (indirectly), as he abandoned her to her fate after she had secured his throne.

Conclusion

Joan of Arc was primarily opposed by powerful men within the Church and State who feared her influence, rather than all men or an overarching Levitical system. Her trial and execution were driven by politics, power struggles, and gender bias, making her both a martyr and a symbol of resistance against oppressive structures.

Taveau Asks
Can we state that Joan of Arc was opposed by the Christian Levitical Patriarchy, the patriarchy, men in general, or who?

Chat GPT responds:

We can say that Joan of Arc was opposed by the patriarchy in both religious and political forms, but not necessarily by “men in general.” Her opposition came primarily from specific power structures rather than all men. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Christian Levitical Patriarchy?

  • Partially, but not entirely. Joan’s enemies in the Church, like Bishop Pierre Cauchon, were part of a rigid religious system that sought to maintain control. However, their opposition was politically motivated, as they were aligned with the English.
  • The term Levitical Patriarchy suggests a strict Old Testament priestly system, but medieval Catholicism had different structures. While churchmen did oppose her, it was more about protecting political and institutional power rather than strictly following Levitical law.

2. The Patriarchy (Secular and Religious)?

  • Yes. Joan challenged male authority in a time when women were expected to be submissive. She took on a military role, dressed as a man, and claimed direct guidance from God, all of which threatened the male-dominated status quo in both Church and State.
  • Both English and French male leaders were uneasy about her influence. Many French nobles resented her success because she outshined them on the battlefield.

3. Men in General?

  • No. Not all men opposed her—many fought alongside her. Jean de Dunois, La Hire, and other French commanders believed in her leadership. Even some clergy later worked to overturn her conviction.
  • The common French people, both men and women, saw her as a hero and a divinely appointed leader.

4. Who Specifically Opposed Her?

  • The English monarchy and military, who viewed her as a serious threat.
  • French nobles and court officials who feared her influence over King Charles VII.
  • Bishop Pierre Cauchon and English-aligned clergy, who used religious trials to justify her execution.
  • King Charles VII (indirectly), as he abandoned her to her fate after she had secured his throne.

Conclusion

Joan of Arc was primarily opposed by powerful men within the Church and State who feared her influence, rather than all men or an overarching Levitical system. Her trial and execution were driven by politics, power struggles, and gender bias, making her both a martyr and a symbol of resistance against oppressive structures.

DEBORAH: HEBREW PROPHET, NATIONAL JUDGE

Taveau Asks about Deborah in the Bible
Discuss Deborah in light of the Bible and men, roles of women, leadership, submission, marriage, and the patriarchy in leadership of the Torah times and how would it be today.
Chat GPT answers:

Deborah in the Bible: A Woman in Leadership During a Patriarchal Era

Deborah was a unique figure in biblical history, serving as a judge, prophetess, and military leader in Judges 4-5. Her story challenges many assumptions about women’s roles in leadership, submission, marriage, and patriarchy both in Torah times and today.

1. Deborah’s Role in the Bible

  • Judge (Political & Legal Authority): She led Israel as a judge, settling disputes and guiding the people. Judges 4:4-5 states, “And Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lappidoth, she judged Israel at that time.”
  • Prophetess (Spiritual Authority): She received divine revelation and instructed others, showing that God spoke directly through a woman to lead Israel.
  • Military Leader (Commanding Men in War): She instructed Barak to go to battle and foretold that a woman (Jael) would get the victory instead of a man.
  • Married, but Defined by Her Leadership: The Bible mentions her as the wife of Lappidoth, but no details about her husband’s role in her leadership are given, showing that her calling was independent of her marital status.

2. Deborah and the Patriarchy of Torah Times

  • The Torah era was patriarchal, with men leading in governance, military, and religious roles.
  • Women were usually in domestic roles, but exceptions like Miriam, Deborah, and later Huldah show that God sometimes raised up women to lead when men failed or were unwilling.
  • Barak’s hesitation (Judges 4:8-9) suggests that men in that era were reluctant to act without strong leadership—Deborah stepped in where men faltered.

3. Deborah and the Roles of Women Today

  • Leadership: Deborah’s example challenges the idea that women must always be subordinate to men in leadership. If God raised a woman to lead an entire nation in a patriarchal time, why would He prohibit women from leadership today?
  • Submission in Marriage: Deborah’s marriage is mentioned, but not in the context of her submitting to her husband in leadership. This suggests that submission in marriage does not automatically mean women cannot lead outside the home.
  • Church Leadership: Some modern churches forbid women from preaching or holding authority over men, citing 1 Timothy 2:12. However, Deborah’s story contradicts the idea that women cannot lead in spiritual matters.
  • Modern Patriarchy: Many cultures still resist female leadership in politics, business, and religion, just as Barak hesitated under Deborah. However, Deborah proves that God’s call is not limited by gender.

Conclusion: What Would Deborah’s Role Look Like Today?

If Deborah lived today, she would likely be:

  • A national leader, judge, or president, guiding with wisdom.
  • A respected spiritual leader, like a pastor, prophetess, or teacher.
  • A military strategist or commander, standing for justice and righteousness.
  • A bold voice against oppression, unafraid to challenge male-dominated structures.

Final Thought: Deborah’s story is proof that God values calling over gender. She was not a feminist by modern standards, but she was a God-appointed leader who broke the mold of patriarchy when needed. This challenges any church or culture that denies women the right to lead when God calls them.

Taveau asks Chat GPT
Please discuss Lapidoth, husband of Israeli Prophet Judge Deborah:

.What did Lapidoth do? How did he handle Deborah? Were they married in Ephesians 521 technically even though it was the Old Testament? Was it chain of command? Did he approve? Was prophetess warrior Mighty Deborah the weaker vessel of the two?

Chat GPT AI responds:

Lapidoth: The Mysterious Husband of Deborah

Lapidoth is mentioned only once in the Bible, in Judges 4:4:
“And Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, she judged Israel at that time.”

Beyond this brief mention, the Bible gives no details about Lapidoth’s role, actions, or character. Because of this, scholars and theologians have debated his significance.

1. Who Was Lapidoth? What Did He Do?

  • Unclear Role: There is no biblical record of his occupation, influence, or actions.
  • Possible Meanings of His Name: The Hebrew name Lapidoth means “torches” or “lightning”, which has led some to speculate:
    • He may have been a man of fiery zeal or strong character.
    • His name may symbolize supporting Deborah’s “light” as a leader.
    • Some believe “wife of Lapidoth” could mean “woman of torches,” possibly describing Deborah rather than referring to a husband.

2. How Did Lapidoth Handle Deborah’s Leadership?

  • No Resistance Recorded: Unlike some biblical accounts where men resisted female leadership, Lapidoth is never mentioned as opposing Deborah’s role.
  • Possibly Supportive: Since Deborah was a judge, prophetess, and military leader, it is likely that Lapidoth either supported her leadership or, at the very least, did not interfere.
  • No Chain of Command Mentioned: The Bible does not describe their marriage in terms of male headship or a hierarchy.

3. Was Their Marriage an Example of Ephesians 5:21?

Ephesians 5:21 states: “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.”

  • While this was written after Deborah’s time, her marriage appears to reflect a mutual respect rather than a rigid chain of command.
  • Lapidoth does not appear to have tried to “lead” Deborah or limit her calling, which aligns with the New Testament’s ideal of mutual submission.

4. Was Deborah the “Weaker Vessel” in Marriage?

  • 1 Peter 3:7 calls women the “weaker vessel,” referring to physical strength, not spiritual or intellectual inferiority.
  • In Deborah and Lapidoth’s case, Deborah was clearly the stronger, public leader, not a “weaker vessel” in leadership, wisdom, or authority.
  • If anything, Lapidoth is the weaker vessel in terms of historical recognition, as he is barely mentioned.

Conclusion: What Can We Infer About Lapidoth?

  • He was not a dominant patriarchal figure. If he had been, Deborah’s leadership would have likely been contested.
  • He did not hinder Deborah’s calling. Either he actively supported her, or he remained in the background while she fulfilled God’s purpose.
  • Their marriage seems peaceful and without conflict over authority. This suggests a relationship of mutual respect rather than rigid hierarchy.

Final Thought:

Lapidoth remains a mystery, but his silence speaks volumes. If he had resisted Deborah’s leadership, the Bible likely would have recorded it. Instead, we see a marriage where the husband does not overshadow or control his wife’s divine calling, which challenges traditional patriarchal assumptions.

Apostle Taveau asks

In all of the Bible, Christian history, American and Global, every race ,were there any Christian believer, leader women comprable to a Deborah, Joan of Arc
,

ChatGPT replies:

Yes! Throughout Bible history, American history, and global history, there have been saved Christian women comparable to Deborah and Joan of Arc—women who led in spiritual, military, or political spheres despite opposition, patriarchal structures, or societal norms. Here are a few notable examples across different time periods and cultures:

1. Biblical Women Comparable to Deborah & Joan of Arc

**Huldah (7th Century BC, Israel)

  • A prophetess during King Josiah’s reign (2 Kings 22:14-20, 2 Chronicles 34:22-28).
  • She confirmed the authenticity of the Book of the Law, influencing Josiah’s reforms.
  • Comparable to Deborah: Like Deborah, she exercised prophetic leadership in a patriarchal society.

** Judith (Apocrypha, 2nd Century BC, Israel)

  • A Jewish widow who beheaded the enemy general Holofernes, saving her people.
  • Her story (from the Book of Judith) mirrors Jael in Judges 4 and Joan of Arc’s boldness in battle.
  • Comparable to Joan of Arc: She was a military heroine who trusted God and acted against oppression.

2. Women in Church History Comparable to Deborah & Joan of Arc

**Thecla (1st Century AD, Early Christian Church, Asia Minor)

  • A disciple of Paul, she defied societal norms by choosing a celibate life dedicated to preaching.
  • She was persecuted, survived execution attempts, and became a powerful Christian leader.
  • Comparable to Joan of Arc: She boldly followed her calling despite opposition. ** Queen Margaret of Scotland (1045–1093, Scotland)
  • A Christian reformer who influenced church policies, charity, and education in Scotland.
  • Encouraged biblical literacy and religious devotion while advising her husband, King Malcolm III.
  • Comparable to Deborah: She was a national leader who shaped religious policies.

** Catherine of Siena (1347–1380, Italy)

  • A Catholic mystic, theologian, and political influencer who convinced Pope Gregory XI to return to Rome.
  • Wrote influential theological works and engaged in diplomacy.
  • Comparable to Deborah: She led spiritually and politically in an era dominated by men.

3. Women in American & Global History Comparable to Deborah & Joan of Arc

** Harriet Tubman (1822–1913, USA, African American Abolitionist & Spy)

  • Escaped slavery and became a conductor on the Underground Railroad, freeing 300+ slaves.
  • Served as a Union Army scout and spy during the Civil War, leading raids.
  • Comparable to Deborah & Joan of Arc: She was both a warrior and a liberator who followed God’s leading.

** Sojourner Truth (1797–1883, USA, African American Preacher & Activist)

  • A former slave who became a Christian preacher, abolitionist, and women’s rights advocate.
  • Famous for her “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech, challenging male oppression.
  • Comparable to Deborah: She was a powerful speaker, leader, and advocate for justice.

** Queen Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba (1583–1663, Angola, African Christian Warrior Queen)

  • A Christian ruler who resisted Portuguese colonialism in Africa.
  • Led military campaigns, negotiated peace, and maintained sovereignty over her kingdom.
  • Comparable to Joan of Arc & Deborah: She was both a warrior and a ruler, defending her people.

** Evangeline Booth (1865–1950, UK/USA, Salvation Army Leader & War Heroine)

  • First female General of the Salvation Army.
  • Led humanitarian aid during World War I, sending thousands of women to serve soldiers on the battlefield.
  • Comparable to Deborah: She led both a spiritual and humanitarian movement.

4. Modern Women Comparable to Deborah & Joan of Arc

** Corrie ten Boom (1892–1983, Netherlands, Christian Rescuer & Evangelist)

  • Saved hundreds of Jews from the Nazis during World War II.
  • Survived a concentration camp, later becoming an evangelist.
  • Comparable to Deborah: She was a fearless spiritual leader who acted in faith.

** Mother Antonia Brenner (1926–2013, USA/Mexico, Christian Prison Reformer)

  • A wealthy American woman who left everything to live in a Mexican prison to minister to inmates.
  • Comparable to Deborah: She led spiritually in a hostile environment, bringing justice and peace.

Conclusion: Women of Deborah & Joan of Arc’s Legacy

Deborah and Joan of Arc were bold, fearless women led by God—one as a prophetess and judge, the other as a warrior-liberator. Throughout history, Christian women of all races have followed in their footsteps, leading spiritually, fighting for justice, and defying societal norms when necessary.

Whether in politics, military, missions, or activism, God has always raised Deborahs and Joans for His purposes. Their legacies continue today through women who answer His call, even in the face of opposition

.

Taveau asks Chat GPT

Did any of these “Trouble the Leadership and/or  Levitical  patriarchy of their day” “Trouble” being defined as “not being inhuman, attacking,  dominating, rude, purposing to be”in control,” to dominate NOR to take the place of a man ,but instead ” troubling” the MIND FIELDS, area traditions,  of what was the “norm” (like is now) the legalisms, customs, approved many rules, norms, even mores of the day?

Chat replies:

Yes! Many of these women troubled the Levitical patriarchy or the patriarchy of their day—whether in religious, political, or societal structures. Some openly defied patriarchal norms, while others subtly navigated them to fulfill God’s calling. Here’s how they challenged the established systems:

Biblical Women Who Troubled Patriarchy

** Deborah (Judges 4-5, Israel)

* Challenged the Patriarchal System

  • Led Israel as a judge and prophetess in a male-dominated society.
  • Commanded Barak, a military leader, showing God could use a woman to direct warriors.
  • Proved male reluctance wrong—Barak insisted she go into battle, and a woman (Jael) killed Sisera.
  • Troubled Levitical & tribal patriarchy because Israel was not used to female judges or warriors.

** Huldah (2 Kings 22, Israel)

* Troubled the Levitical Patriarchy

  • When King Josiah needed a prophet, he consulted Huldah, not Jeremiah or another male prophet.
  • She spoke judgment over the nation and religious leaders, proving God used women to instruct men.

** Judith (Apocrypha, Book of Judith, 2nd Century BC, Israel)

* Challenged Military & Patriarchal Structures

  • A widow who defied Israel’s male leaders, criticizing their lack of faith in God’s power to save.
  • Went alone into the enemy camp and beheaded the enemy general Holofernes.
  • Proved men’s hesitation was wrong—a woman accomplished what warriors failed to do.

** Mary Magdalene (1st Century AD, Israel)

* Challenged Religious & Male Power Structures

  • First to see the resurrected Jesus and commissioned to tell the apostles (John 20:17-18).
  • Broke cultural norms where women’s testimonies weren’t valid in Jewish courts.
  • Troubled the early Jewish patriarchy because Jesus chose a woman as the first resurrection witness.

Church History Women Who Troubled Patriarchy

**Thecla (1st Century AD, Early Christianity, Asia Minor)

* Defied Social & Religious Norms

  • Refused marriage and family expectations, choosing celibacy and ministry instead.
  • Was persecuted and miraculously survived execution attempts (lions, fire).
  • Troubled both Roman and Jewish patriarchal systems—refusing traditional gender roles.

** Joan of Arc (1412–1431, France)
*
Troubled the Catholic Patriarchy & Feudal System

  • Led France’s army under divine guidance, defying both the Catholic Church and male-dominated military leadership.
  • The Catholic Church’s male hierarchy condemned her as a heretic and burned her at the stake.
  • Later canonized as a saint—proving her male accusers were wrong.

** Queen Nzinga (1583–1663, Angola, Africa)

* Challenged Colonial & Tribal Patriarchy

  • Led warriors against Portuguese invaders, refusing to submit to European rule.
  • In her kingdom, she restructured laws to give women greater power.
  • Troubled both African tribal patriarchy and European Christian colonial powers.

American & Modern Women Who Troubled Patriarchy

** Harriet Tubman (1822–1913, USA)

* Troubled Both White & Christian Patriarchal Structures

  • Escaped slavery and led 300+ people to freedom.
  • Defied white Christian slaveholders, many of whom justified slavery with the Bible.
  • Served as a spy for the Union Army, acting in a male-dominated military world.

** Sojourner Truth (1797–1883, USA)

* Challenged Both Racial & Religious Patriarchy

  • As a preacher and abolitionist, she exposed racism and sexism in the church.
  • Famous “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech called out male Christian leaders who ignored women’s struggles.

** Corrie ten Boom (1892–1983, Netherlands, WWII Heroine)

* Troubled the Nazi Regime & Religious Compliance

  • Defied both church and state authorities by hiding Jews in her home.
  • Criticized Christian leaders who remained silent during the Holocaust.

Conclusion: These Women Were Disruptors

Each of these women troubled the patriarchal norms of their time, whether in the Jewish Levitical system, early church hierarchy, medieval Catholicism, colonial powers, or modern religious and racial structures.

They did not seek power for themselves—they followed God’s call, even when men or society opposed them. Their lives proved that God calls both men and women to lead, speak truth, and act courageously.

TD asks
Were any of these respectful,  critical, controlling, rude .or were these God directed, in non biased true pure non dominating authority?

Chat GPT responds;

These women were God-directed, bold, and carried real spiritual authority—without being disrespectful, controlling, or rude. Each one acted in obedience to God rather than from a rebellious or power-seeking spirit. Here’s a closer look at how they handled opposition with wisdom and integrity:

1. Deborah – A Wise, God-Led Leader (Judges 4-5)

* RESPECTFUL, but DIRECT

  • She did not demean men but led because God called her.
  • When Barak hesitated, she spoke prophetically, not rudely, saying,
    “The Lord will deliver Sisera into the hand of a woman” (Judges 4:9).
  • She worked within the system—she did not overthrow Israel’s structure but judged righteously.

+ Takeaway: She had God-given authority and was neither controlling nor aggressive. She led with wisdom, not rebellion.

2. Huldah – Bold Yet Respected (2 Kings 22:14-20)

* CRITICAL, but REVERENT

  • She prophesied God’s judgment on Judah when King Josiah sought her.
  • She did not sugarcoat the truth but spoke it without malice or arrogance.
  • The king and high priests accepted her word without resistance—showing she had spiritual respect.

+ Takeaway: She was not rude or manipulative—just a straightforward messenger of God’s word.

3. Mary Magdalene – Bold Messenger of Christ (John 20:17-18)

* OBEDIENT, NOT PUSHY

  • Jesus Himself sent her to tell the male disciples He was risen.
  • She did not demand authority but humbly carried the message.
  • Some men did not believe her at first (Luke 24:11), yet she remained faithful, not bitter.

+ Takeaway: She submitted to Christ without seeking control over men—her authority was God-given, not self-made.

4. Joan of Arc – Fearless, Yet Respectful

* DIRECT, NOT REBELLIOUS

  • She followed visions from God, leading France’s army with humility and confidence.
  • She respected the Catholic Church, but its leadership saw her as a threat.
  • At trial, she answered intelligently, refusing to be manipulated.

* Takeaway: She did not challenge God’s order but exposed corrupt men in power who rejected her divine calling.

5. Sojourner Truth – Truthful, Yet Firm

* CRITICAL, BUT NOT RUDE

  • She called out Christian men for twisting Scripture to oppress women and Black people.
  • In “Ain’t I a Woman?” she challenged bias without disrespecting authority.

 Takeaway: She used wisdom and Scripture to confront wrongs without personal attacks.

* Final Verdict: These Women Were Bold, Not Disrespectful

  • They obeyed God, not human traditions.
  • They were not aggressive or rebellious, but they spoke truth boldly.
  • They honored God’s true authority over human power structures.

Taveau asks (for the clueless:

For the Clueless: what is the difference in a  Christian ministry woman, woman leader who is a maven, matriarch, Levitical matriarch,, then list some known examples of each:

Chat GPT AI replies;

1.. Matriarch

  • A matriarch is a woman who is the head of a family, clan, or society. She holds authority and is respected for her wisdom, experience, and leadership.
  • In a biblical sense, women like Sarah, Rebekah, and Rachel were considered matriarchs of Israel.
  • In a broader cultural sense, a matriarch is often the eldest woman in a family who makes key decisions or influences the group’s direction.

2. Maven

  • A maven is a person, usually a woman, who is an expert or knowledgeable authority in a particular field.
  • The term comes from Yiddish and implies deep wisdom, experience, and the ability to guide or educate others.
  • A maven is not necessarily a leader like a matriarch but is often sought after for advice or mentorship.

 Maven Woman (Wise Woman / Expert)

Definition:
A maven is a knowledgeable and experienced woman in a specific area, often a subject matter expert or thought leader who influences others through wisdom and insight rather than formal authority.

+ Traits: Wise, skilled, respected for knowledge, often a teacher or advisor.
 Examples:

  • Sojourner Truth – African American abolitionist and women’s rights activist.
  • Harriet Tubman – Led hundreds of enslaved people to freedom through the Underground Railroad.
  • Hypatia of Alexandria – Ancient philosopher and mathematician who taught men.

* Biblical Parallel: Deborah (Judges 4–5) – A prophetess and judge in Israel who was sought after for her wisdom and judgment.

2. Matriarch – A Motherly Leader, Protector, and Guiding Force

A matriarch is a woman who leads and nurtures her family, tribe, or community with wisdom, often holding informal but influential power.

Examples:

  • Sarah (Genesis 17:15-16) – Mother of nations, symbol of faith and perseverance.
  • Sojourner Truth – Spiritual leader and advocate for abolition and women’s rights.
  • Queen Nanny of the Maroons – A powerful African-American leader who fought against slavery.
  • Queen Amina of Zazzau (Nigeria) – A warrior queen who led her people in battle.
  • Harriet Beecher Stowe – Wrote Uncle Tom’s Cabin, influencing the abolitionist movement.

 Key Traits: Maternal wisdom, resilience, spiritual depth, informal leadership influence, protector and guide.

3. Liberator (Reformer, Revolutionary, Rescuer)

A woman who leads a movement for justice, social change, or liberation, often in opposition to oppressive systems.

Examples:

  • Joan of Arc – Led France in battle against English occupation, executed for her faith and leadership.
  • Harriet Tubman – Guided enslaved people to freedom via the Underground Railroad.
  • Sojourner Truth – Advocated for abolition and women’s rights, challenging racial and gender injustice.
  • Ida B. Wells – Journalist and activist who fought against lynching.
  • Catherine Booth – Co-founder of the Salvation Army, advocating for social justice and gender equality.

 Key Traits: Courage, defying societal norms, standing for justice, inspiring movements.

4 Levitical Matriarch (Influential Women in Ancient Israel)

Matriarchs held spiritual and social influence, shaping history from behind the scenes or through God-ordained leadership.

Examples:

  • Deborah (Judges 4-5) – Prophetess, judge, and military leader of Israel.
  • Miriam (Exodus 15:20-21) – Prophetess, leader among the Israelites, recognized by God.
  • Huldah (2 Kings 22:14-20) – Prophetess who confirmed and interpreted the Torah for King Josiah.
  • Huldah Crooks – Adventist missionary and one of the most influential women in American religious movements.

 Key Traits: Strong leadership, spiritual wisdom, prophetic insight, courageous decision-making.

5 Woman Apostle (Christian Leader, Sent One)

In the New Testament, an apostle is someone directly commissioned by Christ or sent with a divine mission.

Examples:

  • Junia (Romans 16:7) – Mentioned as “outstanding among the apostles,” suggesting she was a leader in the early church.
  • Priscilla (Romans 16:3-5) – Ministered alongside Paul and helped teach Apollos.
  • Aimee Semple McPherson – Evangelist and founder of the Foursquare Church.
  • Aimee Semple McPherson – A Pentecostal pioneer who used radio to spread the Gospel.

 Key Traits: Sent by God, authoritative, doctrinally sound, recognized leadership, focused on mission work and church planting.

5. Patriarchal Woman (Supporter of Male-Headship)

A woman who believes in and upholds the idea that men should hold leadership roles in the church, home, or society.

Examples:

  • Phyllis Schlafly (1924-2016) – A conservative activist who opposed women’s liberation movements.
  • Queen Victoria (1819-1901) – Advocated for traditional gender roles while being a ruling queen herself.
  • Elisabeth Elliot (1926-2015) – Christian author and speaker who emphasized biblical womanhood and submission.

 Key Traits: Traditional gender roles, supporting male headship, nurturing, strength through submission, influence within boundaries.

6. Matriarch (Esteemed Female Head of a Community, Often by Wisdom & Influence)

Matriarchs often play guiding roles in families, tribes, or movements, offering wisdom and leadership without challenging male leadership directly but still exercising great influence.

Examples:

  • Abigail (1 Samuel 25) – Saved her household by using wisdom and boldness.
  • Sarah Breedlove (Madam C.J. Walker, 1867-1919) – First self-made African American female millionaire, advocating for Black women’s economic empowerment.
  • Queen Amina of Zazzau (1533-1610) – A warrior queen who fought for her people’s freedom.
  • Ida Scudder (1870-1960) – A missionary doctor in India, founded hospitals and medical colleges.

** Key Traits: Motherly yet firm, highly respected, offers wise counsel, holds power with dignity.

** Women of All Races in Leadership (Christian or Comparable Figures)

  • Queen Nanny of the Maroons (1686-1733, Jamaica) – Led enslaved people to freedom.
  • Harriet Tubman (African American, 1822-1913) – Led over 300 enslaved people to freedom.
  • Sojourner Truth (1797-1883) – Preacher, abolitionist, and women’s rights advocate.
  • Queen Nzinga (1583-1663) – Angolan warrior queen who resisted Portuguese colonization.
  • Rani of Jhansi (1828-1858, India) – Warrior queen who led her people in battle against British rule.
  • Hannah More (1779-1833, England) – Social reformer and abolitionist who fought for the poor.

** Conclusion: What Do These Women Teach Us Today?

  • Women in leadership are biblical – Deborah proves that God can call and use women in positions of high authority and military leadership.
  • Matriarchs and women of faith lead with wisdom and character – Their leadership is not based on rebellion but on divine calling, obedience, and spiritual strength.
  • True authority comes from God – Many women, from Joan of Arc to Sojourner Truth, were recognized as leaders despite cultural resistance because of their faith, wisdom, and courage.

Today, we can look at their lives as examples of how women can lead with God’s authority, wisdom, and strength—without seeking power for power’s sake, but rather by serving as obedient and faithful leaders.

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