Women in the Bible

On my way to Bath on my holidays, I've been reading Judges 4-5 and have been thinkimg about the role of women in the Bible.
Deborah is quite clearly a woman to admire here; she leads the Israelites and they 'went up to her to have their disputes decided' (Judges 4:5), showing she is a woman of wisdom and sound judgement. She plans to lead part of the army to the river, to help Barak by putting the opposition into his hands. Instead of seeking the credit herself, she wishes the leader of the army to lead the Israelites to victory and use her talents for the benefit of them all, rather than her own gain. The next part always makes me smile - so many times I act the same way! Barak says to Deborah: “If you go with me, I will go; but if you don’t go with me, I won’t go." She then explains she will do as he wishes but she must therefore take the credit. This completely epitomises the phrase 'behind every good man is a good woman'.
The next woman in the story is Jael, the wife of Heber, who lures Sisera (Commander of the opposing army) into her tent and once he is asleep she drives a tent peg into his skull. Barak then appears and is told.
In the next chapter, Deborah and Barak praise God and sing, venerating Jael who is said to be a blessing. She is admired for her craftiness and is clearly a strong woman. Deborah and Barak are obviously considered equals now as they have equal prominence in the song of praise (although poor Barak doesn't appear to have done much)!
I like the idea that the women in the Bible teach, lead, give council and take action as this is how it often is in the church as well as secular society. Women shouldn't feel limited but at the same time should not feel that they need to imitate men. I can't see myself personally acting with as much violence as Jael does so it is pleasing that women in the later parts of the Bible are leaders but often in more subtle ways. The women mentioned by Paul continue the good work the twelve started and start churches, lead and are praised for their hospitality and wisdom.
There are no stereotypes in the Bible and men and women do not need to have clearly defined roles. At the same time, men and women should not deliberately try to act in ways that go against their natural character or personality. I think the church is stepping in the right direction now concerning gender issues - but it's always an interesting debate!