“DO NOT STOP HER!”

Scripture: "Do not stop him," Jesus said, "for whoever is not against you is for you." — Luke 9:50 (NIV)

There's something both humbling and liberating about Jesus' words in Luke 9:50. The disciples had encountered someone casting out demons in Jesus' name, but because he wasn't part of their inner circle, they tried to shut him down. Their concern wasn't about his effectiveness—it was about his association. And Jesus' response was swift and clear: "Do not stop him."

For me, this moment echoes loudly in today's conversations about who is "qualified" to preach the gospel—particularly when it comes to women. For centuries, debates have swirled around whether women should proclaim the Word of God, teach, lead, or pastor. But in this passage, Jesus isn't concerned with earthly qualifications—He's concerned with fruit, motive, and alignment with His purpose.

The man casting out demons was effective. He was using Jesus' name. He wasn't opposing Christ—he was furthering the Kingdom. And so, Jesus says: "Let him be." Couldn't the same principle apply to women today? If a woman is preaching the gospel, setting captives free, and bearing good fruit—why should she be silenced because she's not in "their circle"?

Throughout Scripture, we see women whom God chose to speak, lead, and move His people forward: Deborah judged Israel, Huldah prophesied to kings, Mary Magdalene proclaimed the risen Christ to the disciples. These women weren't anomalies—they were chosen. And they weren't stopped—because God had endorsed their voice.

So when someone says a woman shouldn't preach, teach, or lead, perhaps we should remember Jesus' words: "Do not stop her, for whoever is not against you is for you."

1. Have I ever dismissed someone's ministry because they didn't fit my idea of who "belongs"?

2. How can I be more open to the diverse ways God chooses to use people—including women—in His Kingdom?

3. Is there a woman in my life whose voice I need to affirm and support?

PRAYER

Lord, forgive us for the times we have tried to silence those You have sent. Teach us to celebrate the work of Your Spirit, no matter who You choose to use. Give us eyes to see fruit, not just familiarity. And empower every voice—male or female—that is lifting up Your name in truth and love. In Jesus' name, amen.