Editorial: Let's Think About It

Editorial by Marcellus T. Robinson

“What do you think about women in ministry?” is a question I am frequently asked. I believe the better question is, “What does Jesus think about women in ministry?” My personal study of the Bible reveals that women were always intimately involved in the life and ministry of Christ. Let’s think about it:

The Samaritan woman at the well was absorbed in conversation with Jesus. By the end of their discussion, she was engaged in ministry by telling her community about her encounter with Him, ultimately leading them to become His followers.

Sisters Mary and Martha loved to entertain Jesus and His disciples in their home. One day, while Martha busily prepared a meal, Mary sat at Jesus’ feet. Martha complained to Jesus that Mary should pitch in. He responded, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:41–42, NKJV).

Disciples of Jesus who sit at the feet of their Master receive words of wisdom and instruction for life—a reminder that serving others is only possible after spending time with Him.

After His resurrection, Jesus first appeared to Mary of Magdala, making her the first “evangelist”—the first to tell the Good News of salvation of a risen Savior to His disciples. All who engage and receive Christ are commissioned to go tell others about their encounter with Him.

These are just a few biblical examples of women in ministry. Ellen White puts it this way: “The Savior’s commission to the disciples included all the believers. It includes all believers in Christ to the end of time. … All to whom the heavenly inspiration has come are put in trust with the gospel. All who receive the life of Christ are ordained to work for the salvation of their fellow men. For this work the church was established, and all who take upon themselves its sacred vows are thereby pledged to be co-workers with Christ” (The Desire of Ages, p. 822).

What a wonderful privilege it is to have women in ministry for Christ, including my mother, sister, wife, two daughters and three granddaughters. Let’s think about it.

Marcellus T. Robinson serves as the president of the Columbia Union Conference. This editorial was written as part of a North American Division-wide celebration of women in ministry during October’s Clergy Appreciation Month.