ChangeMakers: Unsung Women of the Bible (Vol 2)નમૂનો

Junia

In Romans 16:7, Paul mentions Junia, a female apostle who, alongside her fellow prisoner Andronicus, is described as “outstanding among the apostles.” In the early church, apostles were those who had physically encountered Jesus and were sent out to spread His message, performing miracles through the Holy Spirit. Paul recognizes Junia’s significant role in this ministry, though little else is known about her.

We can imagine Junia preaching the gospel, facing both joy and opposition from those she encountered. Her time in prison, especially as a woman in Roman society, would have been grueling, yet her faith remained strong. Though brief in scripture, her story reflects God’s use of both men and women to advance His church, a partnership that transcends cultural barriers.

Unfortunately, Junia’s contributions have been largely forgotten over the centuries, with only a few early church writings offering insights into her life. Romans 16:7 stands as the primary record of her work, leaving us to wonder why such an "outstanding" apostle was not more widely recognized. This forgotten aspect of Junia’s story may resonate with many of us who feel overlooked, excluded, or unheard in our own pursuits of God’s calling. We may question whether God sees our struggles, pain, or loneliness.

But God does see. He did not forget Junia’s work, and He has not forgotten you. He knows you, sees your efforts, and remembers your labor. In times of weariness and discouragement, God invites you to trade your burdens for His peace. Junia’s legacy is a reminder that God’s Kingdom is one where both men and women share in the task of spreading the Gospel, working together in mutual partnership.

Like Junia, your unique gifts—whether as an apostle, preacher, teacher, or in any other role—are not accidents. They are seen, needed, and remembered by God. You were created to help build God’s Kingdom and prepare the world for Jesus’ return.

Come, Jesus, come.

Prayer & Meditation

Take some time and write down the ideas the Holy Spirit brings to you as you reflect on this portrait of Junia.

As you reflect on her ministry, consider how God has also uniquely gifted you. What do you sense He has called you to? Has there been a time when pursuing this calling that you have felt forgotten, overlooked, or even ignored? Having walked through that time, do you see a glimmer of what God was doing through you?

With many trying to tear down what God is doing through us and in us, is there someone feeling forgotten in your life that you can help empower to keep going and be a changemaker along with you?

Written by Brooke Palmer

Photo Credit: Junia by Sarah Beth Art

Thank you for exploring the lives of these incredible, unsung women of the Bible. We pray that it has been a source of encouragement and maybe even a challenge as you live and love like Jesus. Follow Women Speakers Collective to see our collection of plans, including ChangeMakers: Unsung Women of the Bible Vol 1.

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