Deborah L. Shumake (Ja`Phia)

St. John 4:1-43, describes a close encounter of a woman with Jesus. This passage has been preached many times in various ways, Usually, though the woman has been depicted as a prostitute. She is often shown as a woman that other women would have nothing to do with. She is often the brunt of spiritual conversations related to adultery. Based on verses 14 - 18, the text is often construed as the woman being unclean, or in sin with a man, who was not her husband. Most often, that is how the Samarit… Continue

The 4th and 5th Chapters of Judges share with us the story of a multitalented and gifted woman of God named Deborah. Deborah is one of my favorite characters in the scriptures. I guess you could say that it is because I am her namesake. Yes, when I was very young I came to appreciate myself through reading about this powerful woman of God.

In the survey of bible stories concerning women, Deborah is noted as one with great authority. She is able to judge. She causes others to make righteous deci… Continue