“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. And if they learn anything, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in church” (1 Corinthians 14:34-35).
At the time of our verses, Paul was dealing with women who were causing much chaos in the church. They were being very disruptive in church with their outbursts and questions. If this was going to continue, Paul felt it was far better to just tell the women to keep silent in the church. It was going to compel husbands to become learned in the scriptures and affairs of the church so they could answer their wives questions at home.
Not every woman in the church caused problems, but the ones who did, Paul dealt with them according to God’s Word. God’s Word is always the final authority.
There have been times when women have had to stand in the gap when there weren’t enough men to carry out the work of the church. These women felt the call of God and God used them in a mighty way. I think back through the years of various women in our own denomination who were pioneers. These women didn’t dominate, they led by example. As you answer the calling of God in today’s church, ask God to help you make your contribution in a godly manner.
Sue Winchester
Missouri
Pray Together: Pray the TWG studies will make a life changing impact on lives.
