Lesson 15. The Gospel: the Message of the Spirit
Day 5
Passages like the one we are studying today can be challenging to understand (2 Peter 3:16). Some say that these verses should be dismissed as "cultural" and are no longer relevant to us today. Others argue that because all of the Scriptures are from God, we should receive these verses as a pattern of instruction for the church regardless of the culture. Let’s consider it together:
“Women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the law says. 35 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. 36 Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37 If anyone thinks they are a prophet or otherwise gifted by the Spirit, let them acknowledge that what I am writing to you is the Lord's command. 38 But if anyone ignores this, they will themselves be ignored. 39 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. 40 But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.”
1 Corinthians 14:34-40
Some use these scriptures to oppress women, asserting that women should be seen and not heard in church, while others have discounted the instruction as irrelevant for today. Both of these applications are improper.
Because Paul wrote, "Therefore, my brothers and sisters, be anxious to prophesy, and do not ban speaking in tongues" (1 Corinthians 14:26), we can understand that this text should not be used to silence and marginalize women in the local church. If they are to prophesy and speak in tongues, women must be allowed to express themselves. We also know the instruction cannot be irrelevant or ignored, or Paul would not have written, "But if anyone ignores this, they will themselves be ignored" (verse 38).
This admonition from Paul must be understood within the broader context of what was happening at Corinth, which was the lack of submission by all. Paul had to repeatedly teach the order of submission, which is Christ to God, man to Christ, and woman to man (1 Corinthians 11:3). Here, Paul emphasizes that this order should be maintained during local assemblies (1 Corinthians 14:40) so that the gospel message is not obstructed.
Women play a vital role in the body of Christ and can greatly enhance the gospel through their "gentle and quiet spirit" (1 Peter 3:4). On the other hand, if they usurp godly authority by exhibiting a loud or domineering spirit, they harm the body.
In order to live and grow in the gospel, we must understand our roles and do everything in our power to enhance and beautify the gospel as we fulfill those God-given roles. Those who speak the truth in love, as well as those who live a life of quiet reverence, exhibit the power of the cross. The gospel is of primary importance, and we must do everything in our power to proclaim that message within and through the local church.
Question 1. How does God’s order of submission apply to local church services?
Log in / create an account to enroll or continue where you left off.