Prophetess Huldah: A Role Model for Women Leadership Inclusion in Nigerian Baptist Convention

Abstract

There is a close relationship between the treatment of women in the traditional African and Jewish culture. This treatment is characterized by a limitation or denial as the case may be in leadership roles and it cuts across all human sphere of life. This article examines this kind of treatment, that exist in the Church today from the consideration of the Baptist Denomination referred to as The Nigerian Baptist Convention, using a qualitative research approach with the use of relevant literatures. The paper used Social Construction Theory which builds on the claim that people’s assumptions, perceptions, and practices with social phenomenon develop within the matrix of a social context with what is generally accepted as socially valid claims. Hence, social realities are fluid and susceptible to changes as time goes on. The Prophetess Huldah was closely studied in respect to her background and contributions to the nation of Israel during the reign of King Josiah who brought about reformation in the land. Based on findings, Huldah was discovered to have displayed a high sense of responsibility as a woman called by God into the prophetic ministry. She was courageous, a teacher of the law in truth, intercessor with wisdom and insight. Apparently, the study has further established the fact that God’s call and leadership role is not limited to the males alone, women are inclusive. Hence, Huldah’s contributions as x-rayed are projected to serve as model for women in different leadership roles in the Nigerian Baptist Convention.