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The role of women in the church has long been a touchy subject, not only among various Church of God groups, but in "mainstream Christianity" as well. Over the last several decades, women have become more and more involved in the upper echelon of churches, becoming Reverends, Pastors, and other forms of ministers. Even the Catholic church is having to deal with women wanting to become priests and taking an active part in conducting services. Much of mainstream Christianity has reacted negatively to this, stating that the Bible itself teaches against women speaking, teaching, or in any other way having any form of "authority" within the church. Is this true? Are women forever relegated to "second class" status? Do women have any voice in the Church?
WERE WOMEN CREATED UNEQUAL?
Does God feel women are second class? God made woman and she was "comparable" to man. (Gen 2:18: And the LORD God said, "It is not good that man should be alone; I will make him a helper comparable [KJV - "meet"] to him.") Comparable does not mean secondary or beneath, it means in the same class as, equal but not exactly the same. An example might be comparing an $85,000 farm house with an $85,000 barn. They are comparable in value, even somewhat similar in structure, but each serves a different purpose. Adam and Eve were equal. They were both human, they both had the ability to think and reason, but they were different. They were stand-alone beings, but they made up the whole when they were joined as one. God made them to work together, to be a team, to be one. (Gen. 2:24: Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.)
CONSEQUENCES OF THE FORBIDDEN FRUIT EPISODE
However, the forbidden fruit episode did reap consequences for which all mankind is still paying. Eve was cursed with labor at childbirth and "demoted" in position within the marriage relationship, no longer equal in the marriage. (Gen. 3:16: To the woman He said: "I will greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception; in pain you shall bring forth children; your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you.") But Adam also received a curse. (Gen 3:17-19: Then to Adam He said, "Because you have heeded the voice of your wife, and have eaten from the tree of which I commanded you, saying, 'You shall not eat of it': "Cursed is the ground for your sake; in toil you shall eat of it all the days of your life. Both thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you, and you shall eat the herb of the field. In the sweat of your face you shall eat bread till you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; for dust you are, and to dust you shall return.") Curses were handed out to both of them and mankind has suffered ever since.
WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP ROLES
However, the status of women outside the marriage relationship did not change. There are quite a few instances of women in positions of authority throughout the Bible. In Ex. 15:20, Miriam is described as a prophetess, leading worship and praise. Prophets and prophetesses are accorded quite a position of respect and authority by God. Deborah, in Judges 4, also received note as a prophetess as well as a judge. She was also a military leader. Esther was obviously being used by God when she became the queen and saved her people. (Est 4:15-17 - Then Esther told them to reply to Mordecai: "Go, gather all the Jews who are present in Shushan, and fast for me; neither eat nor drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will fast likewise. And so I will go to the king, which is against the law; and if I perish, I perish!")
In the New Testament, women definitely did God's Work, evangelizing, teaching, and generally serving the Church as the Christians that God called them to be. Christ encouraged women to learn and become disciples. The early Church would not have gone very far if women had not taken an active part in its development. Paul knew many women who were outstanding examples of Christians. Priscilla was one such lady.
Acts 18:24-28 - Now a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus. This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things of the Lord, though he knew only the baptism of John. So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Aquila and Priscilla heard him, they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately. And when he desired to cross to Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him; and when he arrived, he greatly helped those who had believed through grace; for he vigorously refuted the Jews publicly, showing from the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ. |
Priscilla was Aquila's wife (see Acts 18:2). Aquila and Priscilla traveled with Paul as well (Acts 18:18). Then they met and taught Apollos (Acts 18:26). A congregation met in their home (1 Cor 16:19). Paul referred to Priscilla in Romans as well (Rom. 16:3). If Paul's attitude were one of women keeping their mouths shut and doing nothing, would he have made a point of referring to her along with her husband? And if he were of that mind set, he would have told her to stay at home where all women belong when Aquila traveled.
Several women were mentioned in the following greeting. They were very much an important part of the early Christian Church.
Rom 16:1-16 - I commend to you Phoebe our sister, who is a servant of the church in Cenchrea, that you may receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and assist her in whatever business she has need of you; for indeed she has been a helper of many and of myself also. Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of theGentiles.Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia to Christ. Greet Mary, who labored much for us. Greet Andronicus and Junia, my countrymen and my fellow prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me. Greet Amplias, my beloved in the Lord. Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and Stachys, my beloved. Greet Apelles, approved in Christ. Greet those who are of the household of Aristobulus. Greet Herodion, my countryman. Greet those who are of the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord. Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, who have labored in the Lord. Greet the beloved Persis, who labored much in the Lord. Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren who are with them. Greet Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them. Greet one another with a holy kiss. The churches of Christ greet you. |
In Phil 4:3, Paul mentions certain women as being of significant help to him in proclaiming the gospel (three different translations are cited).
NKJV - And I urge you also, true companion, help these women who labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life.
NASU - Indeed, true companion, I ask you also to help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement also and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.
TLB - And I ask you, my true teammate, to help these women, for they worked side by side with me in telling the Good News to others; and they worked with Clement, too, and the rest of my fellow workers whose names are written in the Book of Life. |
Even though the following discusses the covering of the head, it mentions what women were doing while having their heads covered:
1 Cor 11:5-12 - But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for that is one and the same as if her head were shaved. For if a woman is not covered, let her also be shorn. But if it is shameful for a woman to be shorn or shaved, let her be covered. For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God; but woman is the glory of man. For man is not from woman, but woman from man. Nor was man created for the woman, but woman for the man. For this reason the woman ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels. Nevertheless, neither is man independent of woman, nor woman independent of man, in the Lord. For as woman came from man, even so man also comes through woman; but all things are from God. |
If women were not allowed to do anything, then why is there a specific reference to them prophesying? The definition of a prophet is:"one who is divinely inspired to communicate God's will to His people and to disclose the future to them." (From The New Unger's Bible Dictionary.)
PHOEBE A "MINISTER"
Phoebe's description as a "servant" in the English translation of Rom 16:1 came from the Greek word diakonos, the word from which "minister" is often translated - "I commend to you Phoebe our sister, who is a servant of the church in Cenchrea,..."
Another diakonos appears in Col 1:23 - "if indeed you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and are not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached to every creature under heaven, of which I, Paul, became a minister."
The English meanings of the words "minister," "servant," and "deacon" differ from that of the Greek. In fact, more often than not, these three words are translated from one word in the Greek language - diakonos. Even though these three words have totally separate meanings in the English language, they mean the same thing in the Greek language - service/serving. Once one gets beyond treating the English renditions of diakonos as meaning different things, one achieves a clearer concept of what "servants," "ministers," and "deacons" did in the early Christian Church. The act of serving was not restricted to men only. Everyone served.
Eph 4:12-13 - for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; |
The "work of ministry" is translated from diakonia which means ministering and serving. The entire Church - all the saints, both men and women - do the work of ministry. No one is left out.
DIFFERING ROLES FOR WOMEN IN SOCIETY
1 Cor 14:34 receives significant usage to show that women are to be silent and not to be allowed to do anything within a worship service context. However, a look at the entire chapter of 1 Cor 14 provides a better idea of what Paul was referring to:
1 Cor 14:1 40 (NIV) - Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy. For anyone who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God. Indeed, no one understands him; he utters mysteries with his spirit. But everyone who prophesies speaks to men for their strengthening, encouragement and comfort. He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified. Now, brothers, if I come to you and speak in tongues, what good will I be to you, unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or word of instruction? Even in the case of lifeless things that make sounds, such as the flute or harp, how will anyone know what tune is being played unless there is a distinction in the notes? Again, if the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle? So it is with you. Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air. Undoubtedly there are all sorts of languages in the world, yet none of them is without meaning. If then I do not grasp the meaning of what someone is saying, I am a foreigner to the speaker, and he is a foreigner to me. So it is with you. Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, try to excel in gifts that build up the church. For this reason anyone who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret what he says. For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays, but my mind is unfruitful. So what shall I do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will also pray with my mind; I will sing with my spirit, but I will also sing with my mind. If you are praising God with your spirit, how can one who finds himself among those who do not understand say "Amen" to your thanksgiving, since he does not know what you are saying? You may be giving thanks well enough, but the other man is not edified. I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue. Brothers, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults. In the Law it is written: "Through men of strange tongues and through the lips of foreigners I will speak to this people, but even then they will not listen to me," says the Lord. Tongues, then, are a sign, not for believers but for unbelievers; prophecy, however, is for believers, not for unbelievers. So if the whole church comes together and everyone speaks in tongues, and some who do not understand or some unbelievers come in, will they not say that you are out of your mind? But if an unbeliever or someone who does not understand comes in while everybody is prophesying, he will be convinced by all that he is a sinner and will be judged by all, and the secrets of his heart will be laid bare. So he will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, "God is really among you!" What then shall we say, brothers? When you come together, everyone has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. All of these must be done for the strengthening of the church. If anyone speaks in a tongue, two or at the most three should speak, one at a time, and someone must interpret. If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church and speak to himself and God. Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh carefully what is said. And if a revelation comes to someone who is sitting down, the first speaker should stop. For you can all prophesy in turn so that everyone may be instructed and encouraged. The spirits of prophets are subject to the control of prophets. For God is not a God of disorder but of peace. As in all the congregations of the saints, women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the Law says. If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church. Did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? If anybody thinks he is a prophet or spiritually gifted, let him acknowledge that what I am writing to you is the Lord's command. If he ignores this, he himself will be ignored. Therefore, my brothers, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way. |
It is always better to read things in context. The words emphasized above all have something in common - they are translated from the Greek word laleo (or a form thereof). This form of speaking does not mean to get up before the group with a prepared speech. It primarily means to talk, to utter words, to make sounds with the voice. A better way of translating the above-emphasized words would be "talk," "talks," or "talking." What Paul discusses in this chapter is that even if one has received the gift of speaking in tongues, if there is no interpreter and the speaker cannot interpret, then all that will be heard is the sound of the person's voice and, unless it is a particularly beautiful voice, it will not edify the group of people listening. Paul did not break his train of thought and change course in verse 34 when he told women to keep silent. The same concept applies - he referred to useless or non-edifying talking during the worship service.
This footnote to 1 Cor 14:33-40 in the Key Study Bible holds special interest:
...it was not an instruction to all the men in general not to permit any woman to speak in church, but to husbands to guide and teach their own wives lest they produce confusion and disturbance in a meeting.... The word "speak" should be taken to mean "uttering sounds that are incoherent and not understood by others." Paul says that instead it is better to have silence. Paul uses the same word "keep silent" to admonish a man [any person, actually] who speaks in an unknown tongue without an interpreter (vv. 28, 30). What Paul is saying is that only one man [person] must speak at a time, for if two speak at once, there will be confusion.... The issue is not men versus women, but it is confusion versus order. In God's sight, it makes no difference who causes the confusion. It is a shame for any woman to bring confusion into the local church (v. 35), even as it is for any man to do so. |
Many have experienced a time of listening to someone lecturing and the couple in the next row up started whispering to each other, or giggling, or whatever, just loud enough to distract and impair full understanding of what the lecturer was saying. Or there are children sitting close by, making noises with their toys and, for whatever reason, the noises are distracting and prevent clear hearing of the person speaking. Or even in a private conversation where two people are talking to each other and someone close by starts speaking to someone else loudly enough to distract from or confuse the present conversation. All of these are what is referenced in 1 Cor 14 - lots of quiet (or not so quiet) conversations going on at once with the end result being one of confusion. Even in the less formal Bible Study format, there should not be a lot of side conversations going on. It should be the one bringing the presentation talking first and then the people asking questions should have the floor and then the one(s) answering the questions should have the floor. Everything is done in an orderly fashion with the chief goal being one of edification.
In the KJV of 1 Cor 14:34, the translators added the phrase "they are commanded." The translators showed a strong, domineering bias in this verse by the way they rendered it. One must remember that the translations were done by men who, subconsciously if not consciously, felt women were inferior due to the prevailing concept at the time. [Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. (KJV)]
Now, another aspect of verse 34 which is used to limit the role of women is where it references "the law": Let your women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says. (NKJ)
The Encyclopedia Britannica provides some interesting materials regarding the treatment of women in ancient Rome. The inaugural address given in Pietermaritzburg on June 3, 1992, by Professor Zola Packman contained some interesting reading. Professor Packman was appointed to the Chair of Classics, University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg in 1990. Her inaugural address is available on the website for Encyclopedia Britannica. This address dealt with the categorization of women in Roman law. To give a gist of the complexity of the address and the study itself, the beginning statement was, "Women appear in several sections of the Corpus Juris Civilis in a sometimes bewildering array of persons disqualified from performing certain legal acts." Another of the beginning statements is, "The texts that are read, studied, and taught in a department of Classics come from a period of over a thousand years, in two quite different languages, all far removed from us in time and space." And still another statement made was, "It is suggested that the inclusion of women is the result of gains in women's civil competence unaccompanied by improvements in their political position." Needless to say, the role of women under Roman law was complex and unclear in many regards.
If the "law" Paul referred to in 1 Cor 14:34 had been one of God's laws, he would more than likely have quoted the law or made reference to it. Because he did not, one is compelled to look at the subject more carefully.
Many of the commentaries and authorities refer back to Gen. 3:16 as the "law" Paul was referencing. Yet that was not a law, it was a curse. And as man has done with most things, it has been taken completely out of context and exaggerated.
Other Bible "authorities" and commentators hold a somewhat different approach to the subject. Adam Clarke's Commentary on the Whole Bible provids this explanation:
[Let your women keep silence in the churches] This was a Jewish ordinance; women were not permitted to teach in the assemblies, or even to ask questions. The rabbis taught that "a woman should know nothing but the use of her distaff [spindle]." And the sayings of Rabbi Eliezer, as delivered, Bammidbar Rabba, sec. 9, fol. 204, are both worthy of remark and of execration; they are these: "Let the words of the law be burned, rather than that they should be delivered to women." This was their condition till the time of the Gospel, when, according to the prediction of Joel, the Spirit of God was to be poured out on the women as well as the men, that they might prophesy, i.e. teach. And that they did prophesy or teach is evident from what the apostle says, 1 Cor 11:5, where he lays down rules to regulate this part of their conduct while ministering in the church. (Empasis added.) |
The article "Women" in the International Standard Bible Encyclopaedia contains the following:
The generic term "man" includes woman. In the narrative of the creation (Gen 1:26 27) Adam is a collective term for mankind. It may signify human being, male or female, or humanity entire. "God said, Let us make man .... and let them" (verse 26), the latter word "them" defining "man" in the former clause. So in verse 27, "in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them," "them" being synonymous with "him".
I. In the Creative Plan. Whatever interpretation the latest scholarship may give to the story of woman's formation from the rib of man (Gen 2:21 24), the passage indicates, most profoundly, the inseparable unity and fellowship of her life with his. Far more than being a mere assistant, "helper" (`ezer "help" "helper" Gen 2:18), she is man's complement, essential to the perfection of his being. Without her he is not man in the generic fullness of that term. Priority of creation may indicate headship, but not, as theologians have so uniformly affirmed, superiority. Dependence indicates difference of function, not inferiority. Human values are estimated in terms of the mental and spiritual. Man and woman are endowed for equality, and are mutually interdependent. Physical strength and prowess cannot be rated in the same category with moral courage and the capacity to endure ill treatment, sorrow and pain; and in these latter qualities woman has always proved herself the superior. Man's historic treatment of woman, due to his conceit, ignorance or moral perversion, has taken her inferiority for granted, and has thus necessitated it by her enslavement and degradation. The narrative of the Fall (Gen 3) ascribes to woman supremacy of influence, for through her stronger personality man was led to disobedience of God's command. Her penalty for such ill fated leadership was that her husband should "rule over" her (Gen 3:16), not because of any inherent superiority on his part, but because of her loss of prestige and power through sin. In that act she forfeited the respect and confidence which entitled her to equality of influence in family affairs. Her recovery from the curse of subjection was to come through the afflictive suffering of maternity, for, as Paul puts it, "she shall be saved (from the penalty of her transgression) through her child bearing" (1 Tim 2:15).
Sin, both in man and woman, has been universally the cause of woman's degradation. All history must be interpreted in the light of man's consequent mistaken estimate of her endowments, worth and rightful place. The ancient Hebrews never entirely lost the light of their original revelation, and, more than any other oriental race, held woman in high esteem, honor and affection. Christianity completed the work of her restoration to equality of opportunity and place. Wherever its teachings and spirit prevail, she is made the loved companion, confidante and adviser of her husband.
II. In Old Testament Times.
1. Prominence of Women: Under the Hebrew system the position of woman was in marked contrast with her status in surrounding heathen nations. Her liberties were greater, her employments more varied and important, her social standing more respectful and commanding. The divine law given on Sinai (Ex 20:12) required children to honor the mother equally with the father.... Rebekah was not less influential than Isaac, and was evidently the stronger personality. The "beautiful" Rachel (Gen 29:17) won from Jacob a love that accepted her as an equal in the companionship and counsels of family life. Many Hebrew women rose to eminence and national leadership. Miriam and Deborah were each a prophetess and a poetess. The former led bands of women in triumphant song and procession, celebrating the overthrow of enemies (Ex 15:20); the latter, through her dominating personality and prophetic power, became the virtual judge of the nation and led armies to victory.
Her military general, Barak, refused to advance against Sisera without her presence and commanding influence (Judg 4:8).... No person in Israel surpassed Hannah, the mother of Samuel, in intelligence, beauty and fervor of religious devotion. Her spiritual exaltation and poetic gift found expression in one of the choicest specimens of early Hebrew lyric poetry (1 Sam 2:1 10). Other women eminent as prophetesses were: Huldah, whose counsel was sought by high priest and king (2 Chron 34:22; compare 2 Kings 22:14); Noadiah (Neh 6:14); Anna (Luke 2:36).... Evidence of woman's eminence in the kingdoms of Judah and Israel is seen in the influence she exercised as queen mother (1 Kings 15:13) and queen (2 Kings 8:18); in the beautiful honor shown by King Solomon to his mother, Bath sheba (1 Kings 2:19); in the filial devotion of the prophet Elisha (1 Kings 19:20); in the constant mention of the mother's name in the biographies of successive kings, making it evident that she was considered the important and determining factor in the life of her royal sons. Her teaching and authority were sufficiently eminent to find recognition in the proverbs of the nation: "the law of thy mother" (Prov 1:8; 6:20) was not to be forsaken, while contempt for the same merited the curse of God (Prov 19:26; 20:20; 30:11,17).
2. Social Equality: Additional evidence of woman's social equality comes from the fact that men and women feasted together without restriction.... They could appear, as Sarah did in the court of Egypt, unveiled (Gen 12:11,14). Rebekah (Gen 24:16; compare verse 65), Rachel (29:11), Hannah (1 Sam 1:13) appeared in public and before suitors with uncovered faces. The secluding veil was introduced into Mohammedan and other oriental lands through the influence of the Koran.... The greatest hellenic philosophers declared that it would radically disorganize the state for wives to claim equality with their husbands. Aristotle considered women inferior beings, intermediate between freemen and slaves. Socrates and Demosthenes held them in like depreciation.... Substantially the same views prevailed in Rome. Distinguished men, like Metullus and Care, advocated marriage only as a public duty. More honor was shown the courtesan than the wife. Chastity and modesty, the choice inheritance of Hebrew womanhood, were foreign to the Greek conception of morality, and disappeared from Rome when Greek culture and frivolity entered.... Under pagan culture and heathen darkness woman was universally subject to inferior and degrading conditions. Every decline in her [woman's] status in the Hebrew commonwealth was due to the incursion of foreign influence. The lapses of Hebrew morality, especially in the court of Solomon and of subsequent kings, occurred through the borrowing of idolatrous and heathen customs from surrounding nations (1 Kings 11:1 8). [Emphasis added.], |
The article "Woman" in Nelson's Illustrated Bible Dictionary, supplies additional insights:
In order to understand the Old Testament view of woman, one must turn to the Book of Genesis. When God created mankind, He created both "male and female" (Gen 1:27; 5:2). Both were created in God's image and both were given the responsibility of exercising authority over God's creation. The man was created before the woman. Because the man needed companionship and a helper, God caused the man to sleep. From him He created a woman, "a helper comparable to him" (Gen 2:18,20). Man is incomplete without woman. Because she is called a "helper" does not imply that she is inferior to man. The same Hebrew word translated as helper is used of God in His relationship to Israel (Ps 33:20; 70:5).
The culture that developed around the Israelites in ancient times did not always have this perspective of woman. Certain Old Testament passages tend to reflect an attitude that woman was little more than a thing and that a woman should be entirely subordinate to man. This tendency became pronounced before the coming of Christ. One of the Jewish prayers that dated from that era declared, "I thank Thee that I am not a woman."
Jesus lived and taught a better way - the way of love. He allowed women to accompany Him and His disciples on their journeys (Luke 8:1 3). He talked with the Samaritan woman at Jacob's Well and led her to a conversion experience (John 4). Jesus did not think it strange that Mary sat at His feet, assuming the role of a disciple; in fact, He suggested to Martha that she should do likewise (Luke 10:38 42). Although the Jews segregated the women in both Temple and synagogue, the early church did not separate the congregation by sex (Acts 12:1 17; 1 Cor 11:2 16). [Emphasis added.] |
The article "Woman" in Fausset's Bible Dictionary includes:
[Women] enjoyed a status in Israel not assigned to them in the East now. Mahometanism especially has degraded women in Asia and Africa; anciently they had a liberty not now accorded them, veiling was not then required as now: e.g. Rebekah, Gen 24:64 65; Rachel, Gen 29:11; Sarah, Gen 12:14 19; Miriam led a band of women with triumphant song, Ex 15:20 21; so Jephthah's daughter, Judg 11:34; the maidens of Shiloh, 21:21; the women meeting Saul and David after victory; 1 Sam 18:6 7; Hannah, 2:1; Deborah, Judg 4 and Judg 5; Huldah, 2 Kings 22:14; Noadiah, Neh 6:14; Anna, Luke 2:36. The virtuous matron is admirably pictured, Prov 31:10, etc. Polygamy transferred power from the wives to the queen mother (called therefore gebiraah "powerful"), 1 Kings 2:19; 15:13; separate establishments were kept for the wives collectively or individually, "the house of the women" (Est 2:3,9; 1 Kings 7:8); the wives had severally a separate tent (Gen 31:33); the women were present at the table (John 2:3; 12:2; Job 1:4). [Emphasis added.] |
Then many present 1 Tim 2:11-12 as being the "thus saith the Lord" passage regarding a woman's role in God's Church.
1 Tim 2:8 15 - I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting; in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works. Let a woman learn in silence with all submission. And I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence. For Adam was formed first, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression. Nevertheless she will be saved in childbearing if they continue in faith, love, and holiness, with self control. |
First, a look at the original language gives a different perspective on this passage. The word "men" in verse 8 and "man" in verse 12 are translated from the Greek word aner which more specifically refers to a husband. The word "women" in verse 9 and "woman" in verse 12 are translated from the Greek word gune which more specifically refers to a wife. The whole context refers to the marriage relationship and, in particular, the Christian marriage relationship. Men and women, though equal as Christians, still had to work together in a marital relationship. The head of the household was the husband; however, the wife could have her input and express her thoughts and even teach her husband on concepts where he was lacking but, on the whole, the husband bore the primary responsibility to guide and teach the family unit.
Adam Clarke's Commentary regarding 1 Tim 2:11-12 referred back to what it had to say about women keeping silent in church in 1 Cor 14:34-35
All that the apostle opposes here is their questioning, finding fault, disputing, etc, in the Christian church, as the Jewish men were permitted to do in their synagogues; together with the attempts to usurp any authority over the man, by setting up their judgment in opposition to them; for the apostle has in view, especially, acts of disobedience, arrogance, etc., of which no woman would be guilty who was under the influence of the Spirit of God.... The Jews would not suffer a woman to read in the synagogue; though a servant or even a child, had this permission; but the apostle refers to irregular conduct, such conduct as proved that they were not under obedience... [Emphasis added.] |
The Jews would not let women do anything. However, that was not what Paul wanted and definitely not what God wanted. Also, refer to what other commentaries had to say about 1 Cor 14:34-35 and it is very easy to see the general social climate regarding women as a whole. Women, as a result of being treated as inferior beings, were not well educated for the most part and, therefore, if they did not understand a subject that their husband did understand, for the sake of the worship service as a whole, it probably would have been better for her to save her questions for later when she could discuss the subject in more detail with her husband. This still applies today, though not just for women, but for all Christians. All are at different levels of understanding and all should be free to ask questions during a Bible Study format worship service. However, if one person has a much lower level of understanding of a subject than all the rest of the group and is the one continually asking the questions in an effort to bring his understanding up to the level of the rest of the group, the time spent answering those questions (especially if it is a drawn-out period of time) might become less edifying for those at a much higher level of understanding. In such a situation, that one person could be taken somewhere privately by maybe a couple of others in the group and they could help raise his level of understanding while the rest of the group continues discussing it at a higher level of understanding.
The words "to have authority" in verse 12 come from NT:831 - authenteo (ow-then-teh'-o); from a compound of NT:846 and an obsolete hentes (a worker); meaning - to act of oneself, i.e. (figuratively) dominate. None of God's servants, ministers, deacons or leaders were allowed to dominate a worship service. Instead, they were to serve the congregation, teaching and instructing in a loving, Christian manner.
Paul's definition of Christians and Christian couples in particular appears in Eph 5:15-33:
See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another in the fear of God. Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church. For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones. "For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh." This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church. Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband. |
The proper way for individuals to submit to each other is in the fear of God. Women are to submit to their husbands and men are to love their wives. Respect and love play major roles in the equation. Yes, men are the head of the household, but they are admonished to love their wives as Christ loved the Church. And when Christians do that, there is no prejudice, discrimination, or anything of that kind in the relationship between a husband and wife. A couple who follows this Biblical doctrine works together, makes decisions together, treats each other as equal in God's eyes, and makes every effort to be a Christian couple respecting each other and God and Christ in their lives.
GOD'S VIEWPOINT
Now for a look at how God views His called-out ones.
Gal 3:28-29 - There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. |
1 Peter 2:4-5 - Coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected indeed by men, but chosen by God and precious, you also, as living stones, are being built up a spiritual house, a holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. |
1 Peter 2:9-10 - But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy. |
Rev 1:4-6 - John, to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace to you and peace from Him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven Spirits who are before His throne, and from Jesus Christ, the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler over the kings of the earth. To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. |
Rev 5:8-10 - Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. And they sang a new song, saying: |
| "You are worthy to take the scroll,
And to open its seals;
For You were slain,
And have redeemed us to God by Your blood
Out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation,
And have made us kings and priests to our God; And we shall reign on the earth." |
It is evident that God regards all His called-out people as equal. They are called kings, priests, and a royal priesthood. Men and women will be prophesying, dreaming dreams, having visions and "evangelizing." God did not intend for women to be made second-class individuals - that occurred as a result of Satan's influence in this world. Yes, God did curse Eve and "demoted" her within the marriage relationship. But He also cursed Adam. It was only as time went on and Satan's influence crept deeper and deeper into every aspect of human life that women became second-class citizens (and even lower) in man's eyes and treated as such. Even now, many cultures treat women that way. But God loves His people and would never treat them that way. Therefore, women do have an important role to play within the end-time work - much as they did in the early days of Christianity. Women have to be learning how to be priests and kings right along with the men.
Also, if the worship service is practiced as it was during the early Christian era, then no one is "lecturing" people. Presentations (in a Bible Study format) can be made by any individual (man or woman) but that individual must be ready to answer questions. Men and women can ask questions and answer questions. All have to do personal evangelism and personal evangelism consists of more than exemplary conduct, it also means being ready with an answer, taking advantage of opportunities to spread God's Word, and generally being prepared to stand on one's own two feet when the time comes to defend the way one believes. Women will not be excluded from the tribulation because they are women. That is not how it works. So women, just like men, must be able to stand up for what they believe and prepared to explain themselves.
True Christians will approach other true Christians as God intended - not with closed, prejudiced minds, seeing male/female, Jew/Gentile, bond/free, black/white, rich/poor, etc., but with God's eyes - with open minds, not seeing male/female, Jew/Gentile, bond/free, black/white, rich/poor, etc. True Christians will accept each other for what they are - children of God.
Phil 2:15 - that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world |
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