Inclusivity with Boundaries

Women occupied prominent roles in Jesus's ministry, showcasing their importance as the last witnesses at the cross and the first to announce the resurrection. Jesus's inclusion of women demonstrates a model of radical inclusivity, contrary to claims that he was limited by the cultural norms of his time. However, despite his willingness to integrate women into significant aspects of his mission, he did not elevate them to roles such as priestesses or apostles, signifying a clear boundary. This distinction suggests that while he embraced inclusivity, there were specific areas he regarded as reserved for men, which would not have been groundbreaking to early believers, highlighting a complex stance on female leadership.