Season: 22 Episode: 321
Should women serve as pastors? Is this issue about sexism—or about Scripture?
In this episode of the Her Faith Inspires Podcast, Shanda dives into one of the most debated topics in the church today: the role of women in ministry. Following the Southern Baptist Convention’s recent amendment clarifying that the office of pastor is reserved for qualified men, Christians have been passionately debating what the Bible actually teaches.
Drawing from Scripture—not denominational tradition—Shanda shares why she changed from an egalitarian view to a complementarian one, explains the biblical roles of men and women in the church and the home, and responds to some of the most common objections and arguments she received after one of her most viral social media posts.
She also discusses why feminism has influenced the church more than many Christians realize, how logical fallacies often derail biblical conversations, and why God’s design for men and women is ultimately good, wise, and life-giving.
In This Episode
- Why the SBC amendment sparked so much controversy
- My journey from egalitarianism to complementarianism
- What Scripture says about pastors, elders, and church leadership
- Why ability and calling are not the same thing
- Common arguments for female pastors—and how to evaluate them biblically
- Deborah, Priscilla, Phoebe, Miriam, Huldah, and what their ministries actually demonstrate
- Responding to objections using sound hermeneutics and logic
- Why God-given roles do not determine a person’s value
- Encouragement for women who desire to serve the Lord faithfully
Between the Lines
Before today’s discussion, I also tackle another cultural issue: modesty.
Is modesty simply about clothing, or does it begin in the heart? We discuss why cultural standards continue to change, why Christians should think differently, and a few practical questions every believer should consider before getting dressed this summer.
Mentioned in This Episode
- Subscribe to my monthly worldview newsletter:
https://shandafulbright.com - Speaking Event:
South New Milford Baptist Church
https://snmbc.org - Mike Winger’s extensive research on women in ministry:
https://youtu.be/v9ZQC5g977k?si=WPURW7AZ_77vrNlh - Baptist Women in Ministry statement:
https://goodfaithmedia.org/baptist-women-in-ministry-respond-to-the-sbcs-passage-of-the-mohler-amendment/
Scripture Referenced
- Genesis 1–3
- Matthew 5:28
- 1 Timothy 2–3
- Titus 1–2
- Proverbs 31
- Ephesians 5
Connect with Shanda
For speaking events, Bible study workshops, and additional resources, visit shandafulbright.com.
If this episode encouraged you, please share it with a friend and leave a review. Your support helps more women learn to think biblically and live faithfully in today’s culture.
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