Born of a Woman | Christian Standard, December 2016 explores the place of women in the story of Scripture and the ongoing work of women in ministry, service, leadership, and mercy. Built around the cover theme “Born of a Woman,” this issue connects the birth of Jesus to the women God used in biblical history and to women serving in difficult places today.
Visible contents begin with Matt Proctor’s look at the family tree of Jesus, highlighting surprising women in Matthew 1. Jennifer Johnson reflects on Mary’s favor and burden, and Chad Ragsdale examines why the virgin birth matters for Christian faith and hope. Together, these articles frame the incarnation not only as a Christmas theme but also as a reminder that God works through unexpected people and costly obedience.
The issue’s largest visible section, “To Women, By Women,” profiles six ministries serving women in vulnerable circumstances. These include Natalie’s Sisters, My Safe Harbor, LifeChoices, Guiding Light, Rapha House, and Scarlet Hope. The articles address prison outreach, homelessness, pregnancy care, addiction recovery, trafficking, and support for women in the adult entertainment industry. Additional visible pieces consider women’s work from different perspectives and include ministry reports on neighborhood outreach and deaf ministry in Mexico.
For readers researching women in ministry, Mary in Christian reflection, and practical ministries of compassion, Born of a Woman | Christian Standard, December 2016 offers a meaningful snapshot of how churches and Christian leaders were connecting biblical truth with visible care for women in real-world need.
