This Woman of the Bible is mentioned in only two short passages, both in the book of Acts, but what is said tells us a lot about her.
- A dealer of purple cloth. Purple cloth was expensive and valuable as a sign of nobility or royalty so she was probably a wealthy businesswoman.
- From the city of Thyatira. This small city was known for its commerce in Asia Minor. It was in an area noted for its abundant crops and the manufacture of purple dye.
- A worshiper of God. This term was used for Gentiles who believed in the Jewish God, Yahweh. Although they believed in God, they were not yet believers in Christ.
- A woman whose heart God opened. Paul shared the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ and through God’s divine work, she believed. She apparently was baptized right away along with the members of her household. Since her husband was not mentioned, I believe she was a widow. Lydia’s household probably included children and servants. Whether the entire household believed or not, they now lived in a Christian home.
- A willing servant. She invited Paul and his companions to stay at her house. When God opened her heart, she believed wholeheartedly. She became a servant, tending to the needs of the missionaries. Later in Paul’s mission, he returned to Lydia’s home where he met with believers. Lydia had apparently become an active member of the church.
As soon as Lydia believed, she went to work for Christ. She shared her faith with her family and servants. She opened her home to God’s people and continued being of service to the church. I think that after a lifetime of faithful service, she met Jesus and was probably greeted with the words, “Well done good and faithful servant. Come and share My happiness” (from Matthew 25:21)
I’m sure that I would have liked Lydia if I had lived back then and I can’t wait to meet her one day when I join other believers in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Find her story in Acts 16:13-15 and 40.
Walking With Women of the Bible
by Lynne Chapman
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