Pastor Cody Woodard has stirred up some conversation by asserting that the Bible supports the idea of women serving as pastors. However, Blaze TV host Allie Beth Stuckey pushes back, suggesting that Woodard’s interpretations are based on scripture that doesn’t actually back his claims.
In an Instagram video, Woodard says, “I believe women can be pastors. The Bible tells us that.” He goes on to reference various scriptures: he mentions that Apollos, whom Paul compared himself to, was taught by a woman. He brings up Acts 18, where one can find unmarried women prophesying, and also references figures like Nymphas and Phoebe, highlighting instances in Colossians and Corinthians.
Stuckey, however, counters these examples, noting, “OK, none of these examples are of female pastors,” and observes that even when women are depicted in roles of teaching or prophesying, it doesn’t equate to leading a church. She adds, “I believe women can preach the gospel and correct theology, but the examples still don’t involve women as pastors.”
In a follow-up video, Woodard insists that some passages suggesting women should be silent or not preach are misinterpreted, emphasizing that critics often rely on congregants not exploring the scripture themselves. Stuckey responds, “That’s why you could think it’s oppressive, but the truth is we all reflect the image of God—men and women alike.” She asserts that while the Bible uplifts both genders, it is not an egalitarian text; they have different roles and purposes. “We are not called to be the same,” she concludes.
