23/06/2026
Here is a quick highlight of significant Baptist women in history who did not hold back their preaching, teaching, and pastoral gifts from the Church or the world. In previous eras, they have been celebrated and appreciated for their generosity, resilience, and fortitude. May they serve as models for future generations.
(I am not sure how they would be received today.)
Martha Stearns Marshall
Era of Ministry: 1750s–1770s
Great Awakening Revivalist and Separate Baptist Leader
One of the earliest and most influential women of the Separate Baptist movement, Martha Stearns Marshall traveled with Baptist evangelists during the Great Awakening and became known for her public exhortation, prayer, and spiritual leadership. Contemporary witnesses described her speaking as unusually powerful and effective in revival settings, with many hearers deeply moved by her personal conviction and spiritual insight. Her work helped establish Baptist churches and expand the Separate Baptist movement throughout the American South.
Lottie Moon
Era of Ministry: 1870s–1910s
Missionary Evangelist in China
Lottie Moon served roughly forty years in China as a missionary, teacher, evangelist, and advocate for global missions. Refusing to remain confined to classroom work, she engaged directly in evangelistic ministry. She taught both male and female students, discipled converts, developed indigenous Christian leadership, and helped establish and sustain Christian communities across North China. Through evangelism, theological instruction, and the shepherding of emerging churches, she exercised many of the functions commonly associated with pastoral leadership.
Annie Armstrong
Era of Ministry: 1880s–1930s
Mission Mobilizer and Denominational Strategist
Reminiscent of the paradox associated with bloggers and "influencers" of our current era, Annie Armstrong, although she didn't believe women should stand behind pulpits, used her pen to build a massive public following.
