In today’s American church, a concerning undercurrent is becoming more visible—a religious spirit that seeks to restrict rather than release. Much like the religious leaders in the book of Acts who tried to silence Peter and John, there are forces within the church that resist those who preach the name of Jesus, especially when it challenges tradition. This spirit often masquerades as order or reverence but is rooted in fear and control, discouraging obedience to the Spirit of God.
This resistance has become particularly evident when it comes to women preaching and teaching the Word of God. Despite a biblical and spiritual mandate for all believers to preach the Gospel, there remains a widespread push-back against women stepping into roles of influence. In a powerful interview with Girls Gone Bible, Lisa Bevere tackled this topic and how the church should respond to the role of women when it comes to sharing the Gospel.
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The Call and Commission of Women
Across the globe, women are rising with a fire to proclaim the Gospel, responding to a divine calling to go and share the Gospel to all of creation. Yet, some religious leaders attempt to suppress this movement, drawing rigid lines based on gender rather than anointing. The truth remains: while not all are called to pastor, all are commissioned to preach. As Lisa Bevere points out, this includes both sons and daughters, as clearly revealed in the prophetic promises in Joel when God said He would pour out His spirit on both sons and daughters.
Silencing women in ministry undermines the very mission of the church in these crucial times. He is calling forth a generation—men and women alike—to stand, speak and serve.
God’s Generosity in the Last Days
This prophetic promise from the Lord that He would pour out His Spirit on all flesh is a radical declaration of His love, not a reward for spiritual achievement. In these last days, His Spirit is falling on individuals and groups that may surprise traditional mindsets. This includes those outside the usual church settings, demonstrating that His outpouring is about love for humanity, not human approval.
Rather than resisting this move, the church must embrace it. God is using people who may not fit the mold, and He is not asking for permission to do so. His mission is too urgent to let tradition hinder the harvest.
Restoring Unity Between Men and Women
The division between men and women in ministry mirrors the fracture that began in the Garden of Eden. Blame, control and competition have replaced the harmony God intended. But Jesus came to restore what was lost, and this includes the unity and collaboration of men and women in the church. Instead of fighting with one another, we are all called to fulfill the Great Commission and speak the truth in love.
The call today is for all believers to be fully engaged in the work of the kingdom. It’s not about who holds the microphone but whether Christ is being lifted high. As the church enters a pivotal season, it must move beyond debates and embrace the full body of Christ—male and female—empowered and united for the mission ahead.
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The time for division and hesitation is over. God is calling His people—men and women alike—to rise in boldness, unity and obedience. The Spirit is moving beyond the confines of tradition, pouring out on all flesh with purpose and power. The church must cast off the religious spirit that limits and embrace the full measure of God’s calling. In these last days, every voice yielded to Christ matters. It’s not about who speaks, but that Jesus is proclaimed.
Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.
