Reread 1 Timothy 2:8-15. Also, keep in mind his purpose, as he stated in 1 Timothy 3: 14,15. Now make a list of what a woman should do, what she is not allowed to do, and why. Where is this pattern of behavior to be implemented? Keep everything in context, don’t jump to conclusions or opinions.
Was Paul against women being in ministry? What are some biblical examples of women in ministry? In your culture, how do women show submission to their husbands? Who are some women in ministry that Paul commended? Why does Paul emphasize that sin came through Adam in Romans 5:12-20 but through Eve in 1 Timothy 2:13-15?
Priscilla was the main teacher who helped Apollos understand Pentecost (Acts 18:26). Paul encouraged all men and women – to prophesy (1 Cor. 11:5). Paul never allowed women to have authority over or dominate men. To support his teaching about women being quiet and submissive, Paul refers to Genesis 2-3. He says that Adam was formed first. Then Eve was deceived and sinned (1 Timothy 2:13-14). These references fulfill Paul’s purpose to protect the house churches at Ephesus. He wrote to the Romans for a different purpose. Paul emphasizes that sin and death entered the world through Adam (Romans 5:13-20). In his letter to the Romans, Paul praises several women for their leadership roles. We need to remember the context of 1 and 2 Timothy. False teachers at Ephesus were finding a way into the churches through the ungodly women. So Paul needed to emphasize some guidelines to protect the church there.
When we interpret Scripture, we must determine if it describes or prescribes. Some Scripture is for local culture, at certain times and places. For example, kissing on the cheek and washing feet pertain to some cultures. These verses do not contain a Scriptural principle for all believers, in all places, at all times. In Paul’s day, women were restricted. She had no part in the synagogues service. She could listen but not speak or ask questions. A woman could not teach in a school; she couldn’t even teach the youngest children. A strict Rabbi wouldn’t even greet a woman on the street. A Jewish man thanked God for three things: that he wasn’t born a Gentile, a slave, or a woman.
A godly woman dresses modestly with decency and good judgment to please their husbands. They do good deeds, such as worship God, raise children, be faithful to husbands, show hospitality, wash saints’ feet, and help those in trouble. They learn in quietness and full submission. Continue in faith, love, and holiness. Are worthy of respect: temperate and trustworthy. They give the enemy no opportunity to slander. They are reverent in the way they live.
Ungodly Women wear braided hair, gold, pearls, and costly clothes to attract attention to themselves. They are malicious talkers, slanderers. Ungodly women have the habit of being idle and going from house to house. They follow false teachers and sin with them. Say things that they shouldn’t say. They discredit the gospel; some have even turned away to follow Satan. Some are addicted to much wine.
Dear Heavenly Father
I pray that we, as women, will honor you in everything we do. I pray that we will know what your will is in our lives. I pray that we will obey you and follow your guidance.
In Jesus Name
Amen
