Have you ever wondered about the roles women played in the early church? In this episode of Brave Woman, Mighty God, I sit down with Dr. Nijay Gupta, a brilliant New Testament scholar, to uncover the stories of remarkable women like Deborah, Mary, Phoebe, and Junia. These women weren't just background characters—they were leaders, messengers, and apostles who played vital roles in God's story.​

Dr. Gupta shares insights from his research, shedding light on how these women's contributions have often been overlooked or misunderstood. We discuss the cultural and historical contexts of their ministries and how their examples can inspire us today.​

• Deborah's leadership: Understanding her role as a judge and prophetess in Israel.​

• Mary's faithfulness: Exploring her significance beyond traditional narratives.​

• Phoebe's mission: Recognizing her as a deacon and trusted courier of Paul's letters.​

• Junia's apostleship: Acknowledging her as a prominent figure in the early church.​

• Modern implications: How these stories empower us to embrace our callings with courage and faith.​

Dr. Gupta's passion for Scripture and his respect for these trailblazing women will leave you inspired to delve deeper into the Bible and see the profound impact women have had—and continue to have—in God's kingdom.

Dr. Nijay Gupta serves as a professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary. He has authored several books, including Tell Her Story, and co-chairs the Pauline Theology seminar of the Institute for Biblical Research. Dr. Gupta also contributes as a senior translator for the New Living Translation.​

If you've ever felt sidelined or questioned your place in God's plan, this episode is a reminder that He has always called and equipped women to lead, teach, and transform the world. Let's step into our God-given roles with boldness and grace.

Other books Dr Nijay mentioned:

• The Mary We Forgot by Jennifer Powell McNutt

• The Prophet's Anthem by Michelle Knight

• Becoming the Pastor's Wife by Lisa Weaver Swartz

Links: Laura L. Smith: Website Instagram   Brave Woman, Mighty God book

Here's what you'll take away from this episode:Nijay Gupta website, Tell Her Story book, Instagram Substack