Women Preaching? For centuries, religion has made it virtually impossible for women to fulfill their divine calling. Women make up more than half of the Body of Christ, yet they were, and are still effectively blocked from any meaningful role in the Body. Is this what the Head of the Body desires, or is it religious tradition, anchored in misunderstanding Scripture? God’s Word is quite clear on this, there is NEITHER Male and Female in the Body for all are ONE IN CHRIST JESUS.

Women Preaching – How Did Religion Miss It?

Paul, who was called to the Gentiles, was given a Revelation that had been Hidden In God. (Ephesians 3:1-12) This included Salvation for the Gentiles, and revealing of the Body of Christ, where religious, sexual, economic, cultural, and racial differences fade away. The old religious stumbling blocks, sacred cows or traditions, are obliterated, and replaced by a new, simple commandment, LOVE. (Mark 12:28-33) The Body of Christ is the perfect example of how religion was radically changed. The religious monarchy was GONE. In its place was THE HEAD of the Body – Jesus. Every Believer, made alive in Christ, is a Temple of the Holy Spirit. And each Believer is placed in the Body as The Father desires, to do the good works He has planned for their lives. That is God’s Perfect Plan for this dispensation. (Romans 13:1-14, Galatians 5:13-18, 1 Corinthians 6:15-20, 12:1-31, 13:1-13, Ephesians 2:1-22, 1 John 4:1-21)

So how did we go from Paul declaring our Freedom in Christ (both men & women), imploring Believers to stand fast in this Liberty, to being once again in bondage to a bunch of religious traditions, bigotry, and poor Scriptural interpretations? Paul gives a clue in one of his final letters. All in Asia have turned away from me. (2 Timothy 1:15) They weren’t rejecting Jesus. They were simply picking and choosing what to believe, ignoring important parts of Paul’s Revelation, and the significance of the dispensational change to the Age of Grace. They wanted to reimagine Scripture to fit the way they wanted to worship. It was the sin of Cain. (Genesis 4:1-10) Abel followed God’s Word and his sacrifice was accepted. Cain did things his way, and his sacrifice was rejected. That is religion in a nutshell. There is a profound contrast here. Following God’s way versus man’s way. One was by faith, while the other was by works. All religious error, including much within Christianity, flows from a choice between following Jesus or religion, God’s Grace or human merit, His Word or the reasoning of theologians. Choose your path wisely. It will save you from much frustration.

During Paul’s ministry, three great forces were attacking the Body. Judaizers, people who wanted to impose Jewish customs and the Law on the Body, which included a very low opinion of women. Pagans, folks who wanted to add their religious practices, introducing their pantheon of gods, goddesses, and spirits to worship. And of course the threat of persecution by the Roman Empire was always present. They wanted peace, especially in the home, where the male head of the household made all religious decisions, and all were expected to obey. Sometimes, they promoted a form of worship of the state and/or emperor. Jump forward a few centuries and look at what religion became – a combination of all three, looking NOTHING like what Paul described in his letters, or Jesus described in John 4. Starting at the top, THE Head was replaced by a religious monarchy of men, dressed in all the imperial pomp of Roman Emperors. There was a new earthly priesthood. God has only created one earthly priesthood, and that was exclusively for Israel and the descendants of Aaron. (Exodus 19:6, 29:9) Instead of God calling and anointing folks for ministry roles, placing them in the Body where it pleases Him, schools were created to TEACH people how to be ministers. Jesus told the Samaritan woman at the well, God is a Spirit and those who worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth. (John 4:1-26) Instead, religion invented or reimagined ceremonies and rituals, almost everything designed to amuse the senses, instead of feed the spirit. They adopted pagan practices, or borrowed from Judaism. It was the very thing Paul warned Believers about in his letters! Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. (Colossians 2:1-10) The key points in Colossians 2 are to be rooted and built up in Christ, not religion. And because of what Jesus accomplished, Believers are COMPLETE in Christ! And most importantly, the Liberty women once enjoyed in the Body was gone. They were no longer welcome as leaders or teachers, and the religious leadership found verses that seemingly said it was God’s Will that women remain silent.

Rightly Dividing The Word – Women Preachers

In America, any city or county could pass a law restricting gun ownership or free speech. They would likely not last long because they are REPUGNANT to the Constitution, specifically the Bill of Rights that guarantee those freedoms cannot be infringed. Similarly, the Bible is the Law of the Universe. But it must be rightly divided, especially when one verse seems to oppose another. They both are true, but likely for different people, and/or different dispensations. Yet that is not the case with women preachers. There are Scriptures that answer this question definitively – if people have ears to hear. Are the religious among us willing to hear the Word on this issue and end this sacred cow?

Every verse must be handled carefully. To whom was it written, and why? What is the literal and historical context? Is it a command from God, or the author’s suggestion? Does it apply to a specific person, or to everyone for all time? And we must evaluate the meaning of the verse, examining it in light of God’s entire Revelation. Is it contrary to God’s nature as demonstrated by Jesus’ actions for instance? A spiritually mature person who studies the Bible should note how the Holy Spirit reacts when they read controversial passages. I was a “by the Book” kind of guy for many years – even more now! But each time I read 1 Timothy 2:11-12, and 1 Corinthians 14, I experienced a sense that something was amiss.

Why Should I Care About Women Preaching?

This post is not a feminist argument. Women now have representation in virtually every job and in almost every field. As long as merit is the primary factor, and placing the most qualified candidates where they will succeed, society wins. The Body of Christ is something different. What society says, or the majority demands, does not matter. What matters is what the Word says. If religion or the world wants a woman to preach, or any specific denomination or congregation does not, is irrelevant. What matters is what God wants, and that is found in His Word.

My parents were Spirit-filled Believers. They were lay ministers, visiting senior centers, and other venues as God opened the door for their small ministry. Chief among my Mother’s gifts was music. The Holy Spirit would touch people through her beautiful voice as she allowed Him to flow through her. Moved by the music, many folks would share their challenges with her. And it was during these small group moments where she could truly minister to them. She was a Blessing to many people during these brief encounters. I witnessed this many times in my youth, although I did not fully grasp the Spiritual side of what was happening at the time.

I also had the opportunity to witness the persecution. The more my Mother offered to serve or minister, the more vicious the push back. It would usually come from males, but a few of the more religious women would at times add their voice. They would get really serious, straighten their backs, and in a slightly deeper voice than usual, quote all or part of 1 Timothy 2:11-12. And with that declaration, all debate on the matter was expected to end. That was the kindest part of the persecution. There were snide comments, nasty rumors spread, and far too much hostility for a Christian church. As I learned about all that happened, I wanted to go back and stomp on few folks. But my Mother forgave them, and made sure I learned from her experience, rather than get involved.

Like the religious today, Paul thought he was serving God by hunting down and persecuting Believers. But he was stopped in his tracks. Jesus made it clear that when Paul was attacking Believers, he was actually attacking Jesus. Believers are the Body of Christ – Men and WOMEN! And they are placed in the Body as it pleases the Father.

Since I was raised in a denominational church, I had a personal bias against female preachers. Yet, here was my Mother, sharing things that the Spirit revealed to her about me, that nobody other than God Himself could have known. And she was truly a BELIEVER. She prayed according to the Word, believing she received, and her prayers were answered! Sometimes it was small things, like having food to feed a family of 5 when the cupboard and refrigerator were virtually empty. And sometimes it was to bail me out of danger, without firsthand knowledge of the stupid situation I got myself into. Those times the Spirit would tell her to pray for me, she would wake up – most of my foolishness happened late at night – and pray in the spirit until she had peace. As soon as we spoke, she would tell me things that she could not possibly know. People ask, was that spooky? At first, but once you understand how much God loves His children, it makes perfect sense. He wants to be part of your life – your Wisdom, Guide, Protector, and Friend.

I will share one example. Even though my Mother and Father were involved, all GLORY goes to God. My last semester in college I went to register for my classes. SMU is a very expensive school. So between scholarships, loans, 3 jobs, and FAITH, I was about to finish. The administrator pulled me aside and said I had a balance due, and could not register for classes until it was paid. And then she politely asked how I would pay for it. Yes, I had some summer earnings saved up, but nowhere close to the amount she requested. And I knew my parents did not have that kind of cash on hand, so I was devastated. In tears I called my parents. They both got on the line and told me to calm down and explain the situation. We prayed about it, and then my Mother told me to go back to the register and tell them it was paid. I think she told me that three times, as I did not like her solution. I finally agreed, and we thanked God together. I reluctantly walked back to the office, but now there was someone new. I told him that there was balance on my account, but it was paid. I said nothing else. He disappeared, and a more seasoned woman came forward. We had the same exchange. She went back into the offices, slightly out of view, I could she was discussing my situation with what I assumed was the big boss. I don’t know precisely how long it took, but it seemed like a long time. Eventually, a different man came forward, and said everything was paid, and I was free to register for classes. I didn’t even bother to ask how. I just thanked him and quickly left. When people say miracles have ceased, I just have to laugh. They don’t know what they are missing. God is still doing wonderful things for His kids. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever! (Philippians 4:19, Hebrews 13:8) I kept this rather quiet for years because I thought folks would think I was crazy. Yet years later, I heard a testimony by EV Hill that sounded quite similar. Click the link for his college story.

I share these stories not to brag on my parents. They would be the first to give thanks to God for His Love. I share them to demonstrate what an anointed woman can do for the Body. Imagine ministers, filled with the Spirit, praying for people, helping them get healed and delivered, as well as teaching them how to use THEIR faith to receive. How many folks in ministry are doing that? I will take an anointed woman of God in the pulpit all day long, and twice on Sundays, over a man or woman preaching under their own ability. Why? Because God will speak through that Spirit-filled woman directly to your spirit! And you will know it when a preacher – male or female – is being used by God. Its like every word is just for you! The disciples on the road to Emmaus said this about listening to Jesus teach, Were not our hearts greatly moved and burning within us while He was talking with us on the road and as He opened and explained to us [the sense of] the Scriptures? (Luke 24:13-35) We need Spirit-filled people (men and women) in the pulpits, in ministry, in fact, we need them in every industry to carry out God’s Will.

When It Comes To Paul’s Suggestions About Women In Church, Are The Religious Picking And Choosing What To Enforce?

Are the churches that forbid women preaching or teaching, enforcing ALL of Paul’s instructions? Are women completely silent – no singing, no Scripture reading, no passing the peace, no greeting visitors, not a peep in church? And of course, no costly apparel, fancy hair, and wearing head coverings as required. For the men, are they praying constantly for all in authority? Are they greeting each other with a Holy Kiss and raising their Holy Hands in praise? Are they drinking a little wine for their stomach? Discernment is a gift, and we should use it often.

But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. 
-- 1 Timothy 2:12 KJV

Examine 1 Timothy 2:12 closely. Do you notice anything odd about it. The word for woman is correctly translated as singular, not the plural women you would expect. Its likely not enough evidence for the really religious folks. However, for a Believer who truly wants to KNOW God’s Word, it should at least make you curious. Was Paul addressing this to women for all time, or was there a specific problematic woman in Ephesus, and he was simply providing guidance to Timothy on the situation in this personal letter? The latter seems far more plausible in a letter sent TO Timothy instead of to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 1:1) Just compare the letter to the Ephesians to the one written to Timothy and note the difference in tone when Paul is addressing ALL BELIEVERS sharing Revelation Knowledge, versus giving advice, like writing I allow or I permit. Turn back to Ephesians and note how often “us” is used, and how inclusive the language is throughout the letter.

If the passage in 1 Timothy 2 was the only one on the subject, this post might end right here. But it is not. It is one of hundreds of verses that must be “rightly divided” and taken in their proper context. God’s Word is FOR Believers, but its not always written TO or ABOUT Believers of this dispensation. No verse should ever undermine Truth established elsewhere. For instance, pull Matthew 27:5 out of context – And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself – and the next few weeks will be spent burying the obedient dead. A verse can be Blessing, or it can be made a curse.

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.
 -- 2 Timothy 2:15-16 <KJV>

In The beginning. God’s Plan For Men And Women

In the beginning, Adam and Eve were created, a perfect reflection of their Heavenly Father. Adam’s body was formed, and God breathed Life into him. Later Eve was formed from Adam. The two together were one flesh, or one complete person. God visited with them in the Garden. He Blessed them, empowering them to prosper and take dominion over the Earth. The Blessing was given to both Adam and Eve, who would share the task to be fruitful and multiply. It is this example that Paul uses to describe the relationship between Jesus and the Church. (Genesis 1:26-28, Ephesians 5:20-33)

After the enemy deceived Eve, the Earth was cursed because of sin. Mankind would suffer spiritual separation from his Heavenly Father, and the father of lies became mankind’s spiritual daddy. As God had warned, they died spiritually immediately. Physical death would follow later that “day” (930 years for Adam – Genesis 5:5, 2 Peter 3:8), as the satanic curse perverted the entire planet. Their once perfect union with each other, and with God, would be split, and now life would be marked by strife, confusion, and abuse. Women would especially suffer under the power and dominion of ungodly men. That was not God’s plan. It was the beginning of Satan’s War On Women, and unfortunately, religion has been a reliable ally.

I regularly get trash like this on my social media thread. How does this further the Gospel? How does this demonstrate Love to other Believers? If a pastor, male or female, is not called by God, or out of His Will, God is more than capable of making a correction. Christianity does not need heresy hunters. It does need Mercy, Forgiveness, and a little Humility.

You can still see the effects of the curse in many nations where women are treated as sexual objects, and sometimes as property to be used, abused, and even destroyed at the whim of men. Even religion sometimes relegates women to a lower status. At the time of Jesus, the Pharisees would thank God that they weren’t born a woman. You can find similar negative attitudes and behavior towards women even in Christian churches to this day. Women preachers, regardless if they are anointed, preaching the Word and winning people to God, are routinely mocked, insulted, called heretics, almost reflexively, and with much glee by folks who claim to be Christians, violating the Law of Love. On social media, its not uncommon for someone to post an edited video or picture of a female pastor, followed by dozens of truly hateful rebukes of a woman daring to preach the Gospel. There might be a woman who should not be preaching, who was not called by God, or is in it for the wrong reasons, but the very same thing can be said about some male preachers – if we were truly honest. One’s gender certainly does not qualify you, or disqualify you, from ministry. Its all about what God has planned for your life.

When Jesus Was Around, Did Women Stay Silent In The Synagogue?

11 And there was a woman there who for eighteen years had had an infirmity caused by a spirit (a demon of sickness). She was bent completely forward and utterly unable to straighten herself up or to look upward.
12 And when Jesus saw her, He called [her to Him] and said to her, Woman, you are released from your infirmity!
13 Then He laid [His] hands on her, and instantly she was made straight, and she recognized and thanked and praised God.
Luke 13:11-13 AMP

Take a fresh look at how Jesus interacted with women in CONTRAST with the Jewish behavior towards women – ESPECIALLY by the religious. It will sometimes look familiar to the religious of today. Consider the woman caught in the act of adultery. She was brought to Jesus. Where was the man she was with? Why was he not brought to Jesus? The religious wanted to stone her and would have if not for Jesus. He challenged them by saying the one with NO sin, could throw the first stone. Suddenly, they did not feel so righteous. The older ones being convicted first, would depart first. Why were the religious SO EAGER to end this woman’s life, yet seemingly unconcerned about the man? There was no justice, no trial, no mercy, just a bloodlust, and only for the woman!

And consider the woman with the spirit of infirmity in the Synagogue. She was bent over for YEARS and religion did SQUAT for her. Jesus comes along and sets her free, and she stands up straight. It was then she and the onlookers began praising God, OUT LOUD, IN THE SYNAGOGUE and IN JESUS’ PRESENCE! Did the religious leaders say anything about the women not being silent? No. They were mad because it was the wrong day to heal folks. Flee from bigotry, religion, and all religious bondage. (Luke 13:10-17)

Satan has attempted to divide folks along gender lines, and push women down, if not out, of God’s family. This is contrary to God’s plan of a Glorious Church made up of many parts working to bring to maturity the entire Body of Christ. As Paul writes, there can be no male and female; for all are one man in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28) They are one “man” because they make up the Body of Christ. (1 Corinthians 12:12-31) More on this later.

The Lord gives the word [of power]; the women who bear and publish [the news] are a great host.
 
-- Psalm 68:11 <AMP>

Consider Some Old Testament Examples Of Women

After Shamgar’s time of Judging ended, Israel turned to idolatry. Without God’s protection, they were easy prey for their enemies. It was at this desperate time when God raised Deborah, a prophetess and, “Mother in Israel”, to be Judge. (Judges 5:7) In the Old Testament, there was only one other woman referred to as a prophetess, Huldah. (2 Kings 22:14-20)

King Jabin of Canaan threatened Israel with a very large force that included 900 chariots – the armored tanks of that era. Deborah relayed God’s marching orders to Barak,

And I will draw unto thee to the river Kishon Sisera, the captain of Jabin's army, with his chariots and his multitude; and I will deliver him into thine hand.

And Barak said unto her, If thou wilt go with me, then I will go: but if thou wilt not go with me, then I will not go.

And she said, I will surely go with thee: notwithstanding the journey that thou takest shall not be for thine honour; for the Lord shall sell Sisera into the hand of a woman. And Deborah arose, and went with Barak to Kedesh.
-- Judges 4:7-9 <KJV>

As promised, the Lord confused Jabin’s army, and all fell by the sword except Sisera, who fled on foot. He sought refuge in the tent of Jael, the wife of Heber the Kenite, who were at peace with Jabin, the king of Hazor.  And it was there he would die at the hands of Jael. The Lord would get the praise for the victory, but a woman would deliver the decisive blow. (Judges 4:1-24)

Another Old Testament example is Esther. She was among the Jewish exiles in Shushan, an orphan being raised by her cousin Mordechai, who was an attendant in the king’s court. After the queen was set aside, a decree was sent out declaring that the fairest virgins in the land should come before the king, and one would be selected queen. Esther won favor in the eyes of the king and soon became his wife. All was well until an official named Haman sought to destroy all the Jews. He convinced the king to send out a decree that would allow all the Jews in the empire to be destroyed, and their wealth confiscated. Mordechai reminded Esther that she might not escape harm, but more importantly, it was likely God had placed her as queen for this very moment in time.

For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?
-- ESTHER 4:14 <KJV>

Esther turned to the one who could help her. She asked all the Jews to fast for three days and three nights. Then, she would go before the king without being summoned – an act punishable by death. Esther further added, “If I perish, I perish.”

The king welcomed Esther into his presence. Through a series of banquets with the king and Haman, she was able to plead her case. The plot to kill the Jews, and the threat against Esther, was revealed. Haman, and all his family, were promptly executed, and a decree sent out allowing the Jews to fight back, if attacked on the selected date of the prior decree. This huge reversal of fortune for the Jewish people is celebrated every year on the 14th day of Adar.

Women In The New Testament

The New Testament immediately introduces three female prophets. Mary, the mother of Jesus, Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, and Ana, a widow from a very young age who worshipped daily in the Temple, fasting and praying. Mary was just a teenager, Elizabeth was much older. Neither had exhibited any prophetic ability before. When the Holy Spirit came upon them, both their words became precious, recorded for all Believers to hear, and be edified. Ana was much older, and accustomed to the Holy Spirit’s presence. It was the Holy Spirit who had her waiting at the Temple for the arrival of the Messiah. After the long wait, she was overjoyed to see the child, and praise God publicly for sending His Son to save His people. And it was the Holy Spirit who urged women to visit Jesus’ tomb on the first day of the week. They would be the first witnesses of the resurrection, and they were the first to testify of Jesus’ return.

Woman At The Well
Carl Heinrich Bloch
Born: May 23, 1834, Copenhagen, Denmark
Died: February 22, 1890, Copenhagen, Denmark

One of the greatest evangelists in the New Testament was the Samaritan woman at the well. She brought her entire village to Jesus.

In John 4, Jesus takes a very specific detour through Samaria. Most Jews avoided the area altogether, but this was a divine appointment. His entourage reached Jacob’s Well near the village of Sychar. The disciples headed to the village to buy food, while Jesus rested near the well. About this time a lone woman approached the well. Through their exchange we find out several interesting things about her. She had been married to several men, five in fact, and was living with number six. She recognized Jesus as a prophet. She was concerned with worshipping God the way He desires. She was expecting the Messiah, knowing that He would explain everything. Because of this confession of faith in Him, Jesus did something He rarely did while on Earth, confirm His identity. Jesus told her, “I am He.”

With that startling Revelation, the woman ran to Sychar sharing everything that just happened with her community. Many have assumed this woman was some prostitute, a notorious woman, or maybe an outcast. Based on the reaction of her community, this does not seem to be the case. She was just a woman who had experienced a whole lot of hardship in life, clinging to her faith that God would send the Messiah. And now here He was, ministering personally to her! John tells us that the entire community believed initially by her words, and then later by the words of Jesus, as he stayed with them for two days, teaching and ministering to them. Consider the point. One of the most successful evangelists in the Gospels, who turned a whole community to Christ, was a woman. And yet there are some religious folks who insist that women cannot preach.

Note These Faithful Women In Ministry

1. Women were the last at Jesus’ tomb, and the first there Sunday morning. They intended to anoint the body, since he was hurriedly buried and the tomb sealed before they could perform this task. (Mark 15:47)
2. Mary Magdala, Salome, and Mary the mother of James, were the first to see the empty tomb and speak with Jesus and/or Angels. They were the first to share the Good News that Jesus was alive with the Apostles, who were hiding for fear of the Romans. Even the Apostles doubted the women’s report. (Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-11, Luke 24:1-11, John 20:1-18)
3. Joel prophesied that God would pour out His Spirit on all flesh, meaning both men and women would prophesy, speak in tongues, receive visions, and dream dreams. This was partially fulfilled on the day of Pentecost. (Joel 2:28-30, Acts 2:1-21)
4. Lydia was the first convert in Europe, and it is thought by some that the Philippian church met in her home. (Acts 16:14-15)
5. Philip the evangelist had four daughters who had the gift of prophecy. (Acts 21:8-9)
6. In Romans 16, Paul mentions several females in the ministry. There was Phoebe, a deaconess of the church at Cenchreae, Prisca, a fellow worker in Christ Jesus, as well as fellow female laborers like Julia, Mary, Tryphaena, Tryphosa, Persis, and the unnamed sister of Nereus. (Romans 16:1-15)

There are a great number of examples, in both the Old and New Testament, of God using women in ministry and leadership. They were prophetesses, judges, and leaders of women and men, used mightily by God. Heck, He even used a donkey to talk some sense into a stubborn prophet’s head, preventing him from being killed by his disobedience. If God can use a donkey, He can certainly use a woman. (Exodus 15:20-21, Numbers 22:1-41, 2 Kings 22:14-20, Isaiah 8:1-4)

So Jesus said to those Jews who had believed in Him, If you abide in My word [hold fast to My teachings and live in accordance with them], you are truly My disciples.

And you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free.
-- John 8:31-32 <AMP>

In John 8, Jesus declares that those who live in His Word, will know the Truth. And that Truth sets them free. So if you are free, why allow anyone to put you in bondage – especially religious bondage? And yet it became a standard and accepted practice to keep women out of ministry. Jesus did not act with hostility towards women while on Earth. Neither did Paul, whose handful of verses are the basis of much of the confusion. So when and how did things go catawampus?

1 Corinthians 14:34-35 – Paul Answers Questions From The Corinthians

The letters to the Corinthian church were a reproof written by Paul, setting right what had gone wrong. Early in the letter Paul addresses issues he has heard about. Later, he responds to specific questions sent from the Corinthians. It is in this second division that one finds the offending passage. The questions and answers start with chapter 7, where one can clearly see the pattern – Paul repeats the Corinthian question, and then provides the answer.

Question Regarding Women in the Churches

34 “In your congregation” you write, “as in all the churches of the saints, let the women keep silence in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak. On the contrary let them be subordinate, as also says the law.
35 And if they want to learn anything, let them ask their own husbands at home, for it is shameful for a women to speak in church.”
36 What, was it from you that the word of God went forth, or to you only did it come?
37 If any one thinks himself a prophet or spiritual, let him recognize that what I am now writing you is a command of the Lord.
38 But if any one disregard it he will be disregarded.
39 So, my brothers, be ambitious for the gift of prophecy, and speak not against the gifts of tongues.
40 Let everything be done decently and in order.
-- 1 Corinthians 14:34-40 <CTNT>

The Centenary Translation of the New Testament (CTNT) does a wonderful job of bringing light to this misunderstood passage. The translators even added a header to highlight that Paul is first repeating the question sent by the Corinthians, and then providing a response, before wrapping up the entire chapter. Note Paul’s sarcastic answer in verse 36, dismissing the foolishness of the Corinthians. Nowhere in the Law are women required to be silent, or their voices declared shameful in the Bible! So their question deserved a certain amount of derision from Paul. It is that type of thinking that causes division and strife in the Body, and therefore should be firmly, and definitively, stamped out before it has a chance to fester. (Galatians 5:11-26, Colossians 2:1-23, 3:1-25)

The inconsistencies within this letter should also be noted. For example, in chapter 11, Paul commands married women to wear a veil in the church when they are praying and prophesizing. The custom in Corinth was that married women covered their head. Wives covered their heads as a sign of respect for their husband, the head in marriage. But if they were to remain silent in church as supposed by 1 Corinthians 14, how could they pray or prophesize – covered or not? It is obvious that Paul was repeating the Corinthian question in verse 34-35, and there is no command for women to remain silent. And certainly no Law that prevented them from speaking. Paul, a Pharisee, and expert in the Law, would definitely know this.

Some Additional 1 Corinthians Resources

• What Evangelicals Have Never Been Taught….about Paul – Early 20th Century interpretations of 1 Corinthians 14, and why they are ignored.
• Harriet Barrett Montgomery’s Centenary Translation – Article and additional links to this topic, specifically, alternative interpretations of 1 Corinthians 14, and its relevance to the Body of Christ.

The next passage, 1 Timothy 2:11-15, is a little more challenging and cannot be explained as easily as the one in 1 Corinthians 14. 1 Timothy was written to an individual, Timothy, not a congregation. It is a letter of correction, starting immediately with a warning about certain individuals teaching different doctrines. And the danger of giving importance to legends, fables, myths, and endless genealogies. So at the very beginning, it is noted that there is turmoil in the Ephesian church, and a struggle between Truth and false doctrines coming even from within the church! And at the end, 2 Timothy 3, Paul warns of people who have a form of religion, but refuse the power of it, who are boasters, covetous, disobedient, and sexual deviants who often target women and lead them astray. This can be explained by people flooding into the church, clinging to their former beliefs, both Jewish and pagan. All of this is avoided by leaning completely on Jesus, the Word of God. Living by faith in the God-breathed Scripture, makes you complete, and prepared for everything God has planned for you.

One final thought on 1 Timothy 2:15, the last verse of the chapter, Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety. Many commentators, confused by the entire passage, have attempted to twist this to mean that women will be saved by the birth of Jesus. But that contradicts the Gospel message, and makes little sense in context. Instead, Paul is addressing a real fear within the Ephesian female population – childbirth. Giving birth was a challenging proposition in the 1st Century and women sought whatever assurance they could find to protect them and their child during labor. In Ephesus, the cult of Diana (Artemis) dominated the religious scene, and her temple was known throughout the civilized world. One of her “interests” was fertility, so the women of Ephesus sought divine protection from Artemis during labor. So Paul’s point here was assuring Believers, especially female Believers, that the Lord would guide, protect, heal, and deliver them through childbirth. There was no reason to cling to the myths of the past, Jesus is alive, and dwelling in them.

Some Additional 1 Timothy Resources

• 1 Timothy 2:12 In Context (4): Phrase By Phrase – Extensive discussion of the passage in question
• Category: 1 Timothy 2:12 – Numerous links to blog posts on this topic, specifically, alternative interpretations of 1 Timothy 2:12, and its relevance to the Body of Christ.

Misogyny, Religious Tradition, or Satanic Oppression?

What motivates pastors, churches, and even some whole denominations to take such a hard stand on this one subject, especially when faced with a mountain of evidence that these handful of verses were never meant to be universal commands, and are contrary to the plan, and nature of God? They will announce to the world that no woman will EVER stand behind THEIR pulpit and preach. And yet, examine their church and you will likely find female Sunday School teachers, female Vacation Bible School volunteers, female leaders of Bible Study and prayer meetings. Sunday morning there will likely be a few women in costly apparel, or Heaven help us – they might have their hair arranged, or be wearing gold or pearls! And while these outrages continue, the men may be forgetting to pray for leaders, and all in authority, while lifting up their Holy hands. And most importantly, few will ever greet each other with a Holy kiss! These are other commands found in Paul’s writing, some in the very same chapter as the ones that are used to silence women. If they are not enforcing every single one of these commands equally, then women are being unfairly, and selectively targeted. (Romans 16:16, 2 Corinthians 13:12, 1 Timothy 2:1-9)

Misogyny, a prejudice against, or dislike of women, might explain some of the behavior. The roots of this go back since the dawn of time. Men have often seen themselves as superior and treated women with contempt. And having Scripture that seems to permit this treatment makes it so much easier to continue and justify it. The lack of respect is passed from generation to generation, and reinforced by the clan, tribe, or community. Women are segregated, or dressed to discourage their involvement in the community or religious activities. And if Scripture can be found that authorizes keeping women down, all the better. But often, at least in God’s Word when its rightly divided, there are few examples. No worry. Just turn to religious tradition, where it can be made up as needed. Then, if necessary, simply find or twist a verse to make it say whatever it needs to say.

Religious tradition breeds some of the most pernicious behavior, often slowly and secretly over time. Christianity started as an individual faith. The Holy Spirit would call people into leadership and then direct them first in small groups, then later as house churches. As long as the Body of Christ is led by Jesus, the Head and only Head, God’s Will is accomplished on Earth, and the Body is healthy and grows. When worldly distractions take control, then it ceases to be Christianity, and instead becomes religion – replacing God’s way of doing things with the desires of men. Paul warns of this often in his letters. History reveals that within a short time Christianity devolved into religion. Men set up their own rules, their understanding of Scripture, their methods of education and promotion. Further, they replaced the Body of Christ with a religious bureaucracy, and promoted men to be the head! In addition, its no surprise that organizations formed by men, and without God as the Head, would fail to understand or appreciate the place of women in the Body. (Ephesians 4:1-12, Colossians 2:6-10)

And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life:

And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.

Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.
-- Genesis 3:14-16 <KJV>

At the fall of Adam and Eve, God pronounced the consequences of their sin. Chief among these was noting the enmity that would exist between Satan and women. Additionally, women would experience male dominance along with increased sorrow from conception through childbirth. Knowing this history helps explain the genesis of misogyny, and also the fears of the Ephesian women. Satan is also well established in religion. He is not a creator. Instead, he perverts everything he touches. Satan stays busy attempting to thwart God’s plans. And what better way to accomplish this than to push away, and out of fellowship, more than half of the Body of Christ. Think of the damage done over the last 2,000 years. Satan’s religious allies, thinking they were doing God’s Work, shut down the voices of women and limited their effectiveness in the Body. Even the great women evangelists of the 19th and 20th centuries have often noted that they knew God had called them, but they were discouraged mostly by religious folks.

Sister Maria Woodworth-Etter was born in 1844. She began her healing ministry in 1885. God called her at a young age to the ministry, but her church told her to stay silent. Out of God’s Will, her family suffered demonic attacks. Finally, she said, “All right, God. I’ll do it. I don’t care what the men say, what the church says, or what anyone says. I’ll go preach and pray for the sick.”

She had a very successful ministry, including tent meetings with over 20,000 people. Many miracles were reported and many lives transformed. The front page of a Dallas paper reported,

“Take your umbrellas down, boys, and come out to the tent meeting at Fair Park. God is healing the sick like He did in the days of Jesus and the Apostles.”

Dallas Times Herald, 1911

It has been nearly 2,000 years since Jesus walked on this planet and the Bible was completed. Even while Paul was still teaching, writing his final letters, he noted the devolution of the church – You are aware of the fact that all who are in [the province of] Asia turned away and deserted me… (2 Timothy 1:15) In both letters to Timothy, Paul explains what was happening, what was to come, and how to stop it. – The teachings which you have heard from me, attested by many witnesses, deliver to faithful men, who will teach others also. (2 Timothy 2:2) Those faithful men SHOULD be translated faithful folks, or people, or humans, regardless of sex. Another example of a verse that might be abused to keep women silent. If it were intended for just men, Paul would have used anēr (G435), instead of anthrōpos (G444). The Truth is in the Word.

Before I formed you in the womb I knew [and] approved of you [as My chosen instrument], and before you were born I separated and set you apart, consecrating you; [and] I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.
-- Jeremiah 1:5 <AMP>

For we are God’s [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].
-- Ephesians 2:10 <AMP>

God Creates Believers For A Specific Time, Place, And Purpose – Including Women Preaching

Long before anyone is formed in the womb, God plans out their life. He identifies their talent, interests, passions, desires, and equips them with the Grace to be successful in the place He has planned for them. Most struggles in life are folks rebelling against the very GOOD plan God has provided. You knit me together in my Mother’s womb… All my days were written in your book before one came to be. (Psalm 139:13-16) – Our Heavenly Father is outside of time, and knows exactly where every person needs to be, to maximize their usefulness to the Body of Christ, and the desires of their heart. Because who knows someone better than their Creator? Delight thyself also in the LORD; And he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. (Psalm 37:1-11)

Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. 2 Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led. 3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. 4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. 8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: 11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.

12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. 13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. 14 For the body is not one member, but many. 15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? 18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. 19 And if they were all one member, where were the body? 20 But now are they many members, yet but one body. 21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. 22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: 23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. 24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: 25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. 26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. 27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.

28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. 29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? 30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? 31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.
-- 1 Corinthians 12:1-31 <KJV>

I normally do not post so much Scripture at one time, but every bit of chapter 12 is germane to this discussion. This is just two chapters before the verse discussed previously concerning women remaining silent in church, Chapter 14. Note that the Spiritual gifts discussed are for the entire Body and distributed to EACH ONE (G1538) as God wills. And a successful church needs many mature Believers who are operating in the gifts, and led by the Spirit. The Body needs different operations and administrations to successfully evangelize the world, and build up the Body. No gift, administration, or operation given by God should be despised, rejected, or diminished by religious leaders, even if they have lofty titles, or wear dandy costumes. Aside from all things being done decently and in order, God places few restrictions on His gifts, therefore men should not either. The Believers’ age, race, sex is irrelevant to God’s distribution. He determines what is best by examining the Believer’s heart. (1 Samuel 16:7, 1 Corinthians 14:40)

In the Body of Christ, there are MANY members. They come in all shapes and sizes. They represent all the races and nationalities of the world. Both male and female, and young and old, are part of the Body. In the Body of Christ, Jesus is the Head, and ONLY HEAD of the Body – self-proclaimed religious leaders, even those who with fancy titles and outfits will NEVER replace Jesus as THE HEAD. The Body, however, is made up of MANY parts – each with a very specific purpose. And it is GOD who places every member in the body, as it pleases Him. If He decides to call a female into the ministry, why should that bother anyone in the Body? Surely, God knows what is best for the person in question, the Body, and her future. And yet religious folks want to object and fight. (Romans 12:4–10, Ephesians 4:22-25)

James writes – For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. (James 3:16) If you have fought against women in the ministry, or discouraged folks from taking their God-selected place in the Body, or utilizing their spiritual gifts, stop that nonsense and get right with the Lord. If your ministry or business has been slow to grow, or is seemingly always under attack, your behavior towards women may have opened the door to demonic attacks. Remember what Jesus said to Paul on the Damascus Road – “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” (Acts 26:14) Jesus takes attacks against His Body personally. Rather than attack the Body, especially if you aren’t exactly sure what to believe, take the path of Gamaliel. He was not Born Again, yet he had enough sense to think that God might know more than he did. He told the religious leaders – “Leave these men alone. Let them go! For if their purpose or endeavor is of human origin, it will fail. But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop them. You may even find yourselves fighting against God.” (Acts 5:38-39)

Sandwiched between our current chapter (1 Corinthians 12), and the one that supposedly demands women remain silent in church (1 Corinthians 14), is the chapter on LOVE (1 Corinthian 13). If there is one single message to the Bible, it is God is Love. If you were unsure exactly what Love means, after reading these 13 verses, there should be no doubt. What you will learn is that Love is patient and Love is kind. Love desires the very best for people. Love is not envious or jealous. Love is sincere, humble, generous, and righteous. And because it IS God, Love will never fail. After discovering the Love nature of God, how could anyone suggest silencing half of His Body? And even if after reading everything here, religious tradition still held you captive to the belief that women had no business in ministry, and should remain silent in church, how would you behave towards someone who approached you for advice? Assume your college age daughter said that God had called her to the ministry. And you were still clinging to the position of women should not preach. What would LOVE do? I would suggest a little honesty about your beliefs, and why. Was it revelation, or just something you learned in Sunday school? Are you willing to fall on a sword for this belief, or humble enough to explore God’s Word further to see if you perhaps “missed” it? And if you remain committed to your former position, seek out other ministers or ministries that do believe God’s Word regarding the place of women in ministry, and help your daughter find her place in the Body of Christ. The alternative would likely be an ugly disagreement that would split the family – possibly permanently. This way Love leaves the door open for full restoration, or at least fellowship, even with some disagreement. Without Love, this is impossible.

My Mother received the call from God to be a missionary as a young woman. Her “by the Book” Father absolutely forbid her from going, a decision that she regretted for years. She suffered needlessly because she was out of God’s Will. Years later she found herself in a position where she took that leap of faith and followed the new path God mapped out for her. She was able to take classes with ministers and missionaries, share her testimony and music in many different venues. Being in the perfect Will of God brought her great joy throughout her final years. But just imagine how much better her life might have been had she been obedient the first time around.

The Elephant

In The Room

Its time to address the proverbial elephant in the room. One thing my Mother said that I took to heart – Whether you are a woman or a man, don’t enter the ministry unless you are absolutely certain God called you. As a daughter of a Methodist circuit rider, the sister of a Methodist minister, and a lay minister herself, my Mother had a lot of experience interacting with preachers and evangelists. By literally growing up in the Methodist Church, she attended many events and socialized with both the denominational leadership and the lay people throughout NE Texas and Oklahoma. She noted, and God confirmed, the number of people in the ministry that He had called for something else. Other ministers that I respect have noted similar situations. God has shoe salesmen trying to preach, and preachers trying to be lawyers, and on and on. If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the very best. (Isaiah 1:19) If you are unwilling and disobedient, the Blessing of the Lord will have far more difficulty manifesting. If you KNOW God’s Will for your life, go and be a Blessing to the world. But if there is ANY doubt, find a Spirit-filled minister or mentors who can pray with you and determine His plan for you.

There is [now no distinction] neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
-- Galatians 3:28 <AMP>

This post is the culmination of several decades considering this subject. I was always conflicted by my Mother’s experience, and the verses that seemed to exclude women from ministry. But knowing Love Himself, I knew there was something inconsistent with any prohibition on the Body. If national or racial segregation is wrong in the Body, surely sexual segregation is just as bad. There was no shortage of available articles and videos explaining why women should not be ministers. And with each one, I became even more convicted and determined to find the Truth. In my spirit, I knew the answer was in God’s Word. Anything less would be insufficient. I needed clear Biblical examples of women in ministry, a verse or passage that would overrule Paul’s instructions, and a rebuttal, or more precise interpretation of the verses used to stop women.

My Biblical breakthrough came while reading Galatians 3:28. When someone is Born Again, recreated and made alive in Christ, the old differences disappear. There is no female or male, no slave or free, or Jew or Gentile. All Believers are ONE in Christ. And as shown above, all placed in the Body as God desires. So, if from God’s perspective there are no differences between women and men, why attempt to create or perpetuate them? Galatians 3:28 is a very important revelation. Any verse that seems to contradict it, must be carefully examined. It is likely that the verse may be misunderstood, taken out of context, not relevant for this dispensation, or simply does not apply. However, it is important to remember, no Scripture can be repugnant to another. God’s Word is Truth. And every jot and tittle, when rightly divided, has its proper place when it is properly understood. (Ephesians 2:1-22, Colossians 2:1-23, 3:1-25)

Please Don’t Leave Angry, Or Call Me A Heretic. – In my younger days, I would read or hear something that was contrary to my beliefs, and immediately wanted to fire off an email or comment “correcting” the author, or simply shut them down completely. For instance, I once checked out 3 books by the same minister, and in the first one came across something so egregious, I stopped reading and returned all 3 books to the library. There are times this type of behavior may be necessary. Let’s assume an author was claiming that Jesus never existed. In that case, there is likely very little to gain from reading that topic. However, when it comes to religious tradition, and secondary issues beyond the core message of the Gospel, there may be room for debate. We are called to act in Love, and bear with each other to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. (Ephesians 4:1-5) When we stray into the world of religious tradition, there are bound to be many disagreements. As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. (Proverbs 27:17) So even if you have ALWAYS believed that a woman should be silent in church, ask yourself why? Was this something revealed to you by the Holy Spirit through God’s Word? Did you learn this in church, or a seminary? Does excluding half the Body of Christ from full fellowship and worship sound like something LOVE would do?

Momentarily set aside any contrary beliefs and read this post with an open mind. Meditate on all the verses posted – links and highlighted verses. Consider the examples of women from the OT and NT, and think of women in your own life who may have been called by God to the ministry. Look at the verses and passages related to the Body of Christ, and what we have become as New Creations in Christ. And finally, look at the verses that seem to prevent women from participating in worship. Consider their historical and cultural context. Note the theme of the letter and the outline of the passage where the verse is located. If there are still doubts, ask the Lord to reveal His plan and purpose for female Believers in this dispensation. If after all that, and we are still at odds, God Bless You! I still love you as a child of God, and a member of the Body of Christ.

See Part 2 – Women Pastors – Paul’s Advice, Or Liberty For Female Ministers?

Thank You For Visiting!

Image Sources: Bible Verses To Go (Galatians 3), www.LumoProject.com (Bent Over Woman), Taped woman and Female pastor public memes, Bloch painting public domain, Elephant image, Acts 9:4 image courtesy of Harrison Woodard.

End Notes – References – Related Links
The Woman Question – By Kenneth E. Hagin pp 60-61, Second Edition 1989.
Thou Shalt Not Wear Short Skirts – A blog post on the overemphasis religion places on outward appearances.
Jesus And Women – Key moments when Jesus interacted with, or ministered to women.

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