Our Top 10 Question this week is a good one: Who are the women of the bible and why are they so important for us to know?

We won’t rehash the recent sermon about gender roles and differences; yet, the truth is that often religion has failed to recognize the importance of women in the Biblical story, and the beauty of their inclusion in God’s mission and purposes. In some ways, the inclusion of women in the story would have been scandalous and a reason for rejection by some in ancient cultures. Yet, God in His infinite glory and wisdom has chosen to include so many amazing women in His grand redemption story, and many of these women are pivotal as leaders, movers, teachers, and shapers of culture.

Their stories remind us that everyone is created in God’s image, has purpose, and has a wonderful role to play in the story of God in the world. Furthermore, their stories are unique—a great reminder that God’s call and purpose reaches each of us where we are. He chooses to include us and use our unique humanity and gifts in amazing and miraculous ways.

And finally, these stories remind us that the women in our churches are so valuable and wonderful as God continues to tell His story through unique, yet broken, lives to display His glory.