Men and Women in God's Plan
Lydia
November 23, 2025
A sermon about Lydia (Acts 16) that highlights her as a wealthy, faith-filled businesswoman who used her resources to support Paul's ministry and encourages the church to honor biblical femininity, godly leadership, and sacrificial service.
Summary
The speaker reflects on Lydia from Acts 16 as an example of a godly woman: a prosperous business owner who sought the Lord, hosted Paul and his team, gathered others for prayer, and used her means to advance the gospel. The message contrasts biblical models of womanhood and manhood with contemporary cultural attitudes that devalue godly roles, referencing other scriptural examples (Abigail, Tamar, Jezebel, Priscilla, Hannah) and lessons from men like Boaz and Epaphroditus—calling for humility, self-control, dignity, and responsible leadership. Commentators note the need for partnership between men and women and for leaders not to abuse authority. The lack of mention of men in Lydia’s story is presented as an encouragement to women, and the sermon closes with a prayer for Christlike examples and God’s presence among the people.
Key Points
- Text: Acts 16; focus on Lydia
- Lydia was a business owner, likely wealthy, who invited Paul and his companions to stay and gathered others for prayer
- She used her resources and home to create conditions for the gospel to spread
- Luke often highlights women’s roles in ministry; Lydia’s story lacks mention of men and can encourage women
- Cultural critique: modern culture often devalues biblical womanhood; the Bible offers a fuller, varied picture of godly femininity
- Examples of biblical men and women (Abigail, Tamar, Jezebel, Priscilla, Hannah, Boaz, Achan, Epaphroditus, Mephibosheth) used to draw principles
- Key principles for godly men: humility, self-control, dignity toward others, not abusing authority, creating space for loved ones to follow God
- Need for partnership between men and women; leaders should foster conditions that make spiritual obedience easier
- Encouragement: use success and resources for the church and remain devoted to the Lord
- Closing: a prayer asking for Christlike character and God’s blessing on the gathered people
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