THE VALUE OF WOMEN IN THE CHURCH
Rev. Todd G. Leupold, Perth Bible Church, Sunday, Sept. 14, 2008 AM
John Dawson, in his book Healing America’s Wounds, asserts:
“The wounds inflicted by men and women on each other constitute the fundamental fault line running beneath all other human conflict . . . It is the biggest reconciliation issue of all outside of our need to be reconciled to God.”
Florence Nightingale, a women who to this day is remembered as a great embodiment of Christ’s love and who was recognized in her own day as a world authority on the care of the sick, had this to say about the church:
“I would have given her my head, my heart, my hand. She would not have them . . . she told me to go back and do crochet in my mother’s drawing room.”
I’m pretty certain she was neither the first nor last Christian women to feel that way.
In his classic book, Men & Women: Enjoying The Difference, Christian counselor, professor and author Dr. Larry Crab explained:
“...When our identity is legitimately affirmed, we will become more distinctively masculine and feminine in all of our relationships. We will be eager to give what our sexuality equips us to give with the well-being of others in mind rather than that of ourselves.”
This morning, I will be asking us to broach the delicate issue of the role of women in the church and particularly the tremendous and necessary contributions they provide and value that they add to all of our lives and ministry. We must, at the outset, recognize several truths:
1.Men have often hurt women, treated them as inferior, and overlooked or under-appreciated their contributions to the Kingdom.
2.Scripture clearly demonstrates that women have always played a vital role in ministry and that it is God’s desire for them to continue to do so.
3.Women have also hurt men, confusing their own ambitions and hurts as justification to inappropriately question, argue and belittle men and their God-given roles.
4.We live in a society and culture that challenges God’s authority and falsely teaches that human freedom and essential value are absolutely incompatible with any role or gender differentiation.
- Just recently, a NOW spokeswoman has reportedly reflected this attitude towards Sarah Palin when she stated that the Alaska governor is "more a conservative man than she is a woman on women’s issues. Very disappointing."
- According to another report just this Friday,
“Those who wish to be married in California and be called ’bride and groom’ will have to wed in another state. The problem surfaced when a couple who married in the state crossed out ’Party A’ and ’Party B’ on the marriage license and inserted ’bride’ and ’groom.’ Brad Dacus of the Pacific Justice Institute (PJI) picks up the story. ’The state of California refused to recognize this marriage between a bride and a groom, and said [their marriage license] had to be filled out again to [read] only Party A and Party B – that the state of California no longer recognizes a marriage between a bride and a groom or a husband and a wife,’ Dacus explains."
(http://www.onenewsnow.com/Politics/Default.aspx?id=246972)
Because this can be such a broad issue with so many areas of emphasis and application, please allow me to begin by clarifying what I am NOT going to attempt to cover in detail in this presentation:
roles of men and women in marriage and in the home roles of Pastor-Elder answer every possible question or objection provide a detailed exegesis of every relevant text in this one message present all of the various theories and arguments that are ’out there’ on this subject
Rather, this message is intended to be an overview, or survey, of the Biblical principles that we have been given from God about His will and design for His church and the role of women as vital parts of that Family.
PRAYER
I. ESTABLISHED AT CREATION & THE IMPACT OF SIN
A. REGARDING INHERENT VALUE - Genesis 1:26-28
According to Scripture, God made both male and female equally in His image, blessed them as a unit and gave them dominion and responsibility over His ’lower’ creation.
BOTH male and female equally display the brilliant glory of God! BOTH male and female are commissioned together to represent and serve Him before all other creation. BOTH male and female share a unique, personal and intimate “I-thou” relationship with the LORD Almighty!
Yet,they are given different and distinct gender names (male and female, man and woman) by God, but as one ’race’ they are given one designation that is the same is the original image - “man.”
C. REGARDING GENDER DISTINCTIVES – Genesis 2:15-25
As clear as the equality of value to God and reflection of His image of both may be, it is just as clear that God created man (male) first, then woman (female). Further, He created man directly from the earth but woman directly from the man.
They are equal in their value to God and equal in the degree to which the represent the image of God, BUT they are clearly NOT identical in all respects. They are physically different. As time and history will prove, they are emotionally and cognitively different. They were created in a different order – not by accident or a flip of the coin, but according to God’s specific plan. They were also created to need each and bond together in a truly special and extraordinary way.
Genesis 2:8,15-17 Upon His creation of Adam and before any mention of a woman, God commanded the man both to enjoy and to protect the rest of creation – except he could not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. This ultimate responsibility was given directly to man from the very beginning and has never been rescinded or amended by God!
Genesis 2:20. From the man God created the female version of the divine image specifically for the purpose that man would have a helper (help meet) in fulfilling this creation mandate. In the woman, man finally has a “suitable” partner – that is, one who is clearly his equal and thus (unlike all of the animals) worthy of bearing the same name. In the man, the woman has been formed from one worthy of her giving of herself completely. She is formed from man (in equality of being), yet also for man (as a subordinate in role).
There are 2 important implications of these facts: (1) God Himself declared that man needed to have the intimate partnership and help of women in order to fulfill God’s purposes; (2) Women were created and mandated by God Himself to come alongside the man as an equal partner but in an assisting role.
This seeming paradox, created and instituted by God according to Scripture, was immediately lived out through Adam’s naming of Eve. His ’headship’ was affirmed and embraced in this act. Yet, in the same act he boldly affirmed and declared her equality with himself in nature by naming in respect to himself and after referring to her as “bone on my bone, and flesh of my flesh.”
In summarizing these passages, scholar Raymond C. Ortlund, Jr. remarks:
“God created male and female in His image equally, but He also made the male the head and the female the helper. . . It is God who wants men to be men and women to be women; and He can teach us the meaning of each, if we want to be taught . . . The man perceives the woman not as his rival but as his partner, not as a threat because of her equality with himself but as the only one capable of fulfilling his longing within . . . They felt no shame because they had nothing to hide. They lived in perfect integrity together . . . The man is to love his wife by accepting the primary responsibility for making their partnership a platform displaying God’s glory, and the woman is to love her husband by supporting him in that godly undertaking” (Recovering Biblical Manhood & Womanhood: A Response to Evangelical Feminism, pp. 99-102).
D. THE FURTHER IMPACT OF SIN – Genesis 3:6-7, 16-19
An interesting and very important fact that is often overlooked is that in this Garden event, they not only sinned against God by disobeying His command not to eat of that fruit, but they also sinned against Him and one another by behaving in a manner that was contradictory to God’s created mandate for them!
Eve disrespected and violated Adam’s God-given ’headship’ when she engaged in this conversation with the serpent and made the ’executive decision’ to eat. Adam, in turn, disrespected and violated Eve by standing dumbly by and gladly giving up his responsibility of leadership. God declared, ’man’ is to lead, woman is to assist.’ But, here, the woman led and the man assisted. Thus, began the ongoing war of the sexes!!!!
Just like that, look at their immediate response. Man: “She did, she took my initiative away and instead of helping me she forced me.” Woman: “The serpent made me do it and my man did nothing to protect me from this deception.”
Verses 16-19 are God’s explanation of the result of this gross violation of His created roles and mandate for them.
Notice very carefully, however, that God’s declaration of the idea of male ’headship’ was already present and that these declarations are the consequences of violating them. Sin, then, was never and is not the cause of the dynamic of male headship, but rather it distorted it to become something beyond what was ever intended.
Prior to the encounter with the serpent, the equality of being and differentiation in roles and authority was never a problem for man and woman. They rejoiced daily and never even considered the idea of having anything to hide from God or one another. Now, having violated those creative roles and living in a sin nature, it will become that much more difficult and painful for man and woman to live together.
The result of sin is not any change in God-given roles. It WAS a drastic change, however, in how and with what attitude both man and woman would respond to these roles and one another!
TRANSISTION: In Genesis 1-3, then, Scripture tells us right from the beginning both God’s intended roles and relationship for men and women and why this is so difficult and contentious for us to accept or live out today! On this important foundation, let us now look first at the invaluable role woman have nevertheless fulfilled for God’s glory throughout Scripture as well as the specific implications for all of this in the Church of Jesus Christ today.
II. BIBLICAL VALUE OF WOMEN
A. UNDER ’OLD COVENANT’
Women were ’Prophetesses.’
That is, speaking forth God’s revelation to the people. Examples in the OT include Miriam (Ex. 15:20-21) and Deborah (Judges 4:4-5). Also Ezekiel issued judgment against specific daughters who prophesied falsely, implying that the act of prophesying itself was not the issue (Ezek. 13:17-24). Also, Joel – while inspired by the Holy Spirit – spoke of that day when the Spirit would pour out on “sons and daughters” and that “men and women” would prophecy.
At the same time, however, it is very important and relevant to note that in the OT it was only the priest’s instructions that were declared to be authoritative (Lev. 10:11; Dt. 21:5; Mal. 2:6-7).
B. ACCORDING TO THE INCARNATE JESUS
John Piper and Wayne Grudem summarize:
“We believe the ministry of Jesus has revolutionary implications for the way sinful men and women treat each other. . . Everything Jesus taught and did was an attack on the pride that makes men and women belittle each other. Everything He taught and did was a summons to the humility and love that purge self-exaltation out of leadership and servility out of submission. . . He was accompanied by women, He taught women, and women bore witness to His resurrection life. Against every custom that demeans or abuses men and women the words of Jesus can be applied: “And why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition?’ (Matt. 15:3). But where does Jesus say anything that criticizes the order of creation in which men bear a primary responsibility to lead, protect, and sustain? Nothing. . .” (50 Crucial Questions: An Overview of Central Concerns about Manhoond and Womanhood, pp. 26-27).
C. ACCORDING TO THE HOLY SPIRIT THROUGH PAUL
Paul mentions and praises several specific women for their tremendous contributions to the Kingdom. Priscilla for teaching him alongside her husband (Acts 18:26) and as a “fellow worker” (Romans 16:3). He refers to Euodia and Syntyche as women who struggled together with him in the gospel (Philippians 4:2). He instructs the church in Roman to greet Mary as one who labored much on their behalf (Ro. 16:6) and praises Phoebe for her valuable service (Ro. 16:1).
Inspired by God, Paul wrote that women also have been given spiritual gifts and that they are to use them to minister to other in the Body of Christ (1 Co. 12:12-26). In fact, in his analogy of the Body he refers to them and their role as essentially indefensible. In speaking of the equality of value and worth of each individual who has been justified through Christ, Paul includes in his short list of characteristics that make no difference and can’t be held over or under another those of “male and female” (Gal. 3:28). He even refers to women “praying and prophesying” in the church (1 Co. 11:5). Yes, he criticizes them for how they are doing so, but not for that fact that they do so!
At the same time that Paul honors and lifts up the value and service of women, he also repeatedly affirms the differentiation in roles and authority between men and women.
Eph. 5:22-33; Col. 3:17-19 and elsewhere.
III. IMPLICATIONS IN THE NT CHURCH & TODAY
A. AUTHORITY & LEADERSHIP – 1 Corinthians 11:2-16
Okay, before you think you understand what this all means, be sure to understand the following:
1)In chapters 11-14 of this letter, Paul criticizes the Corinthians for deviating from God’s teachings regarding several areas of their meeting together, beginning with their attitudes – which is what this passage is about.
2)v. 3 is essential in the rest of the instruction. Paul not only refers to the relationship of man as ’head’ of the woman, but then compares that equally to the relationship of Christ and God. Do NOT miss this or everything that follows will be understood in error! While Christ voluntarily submits to the Father in respect and trust, He is in no way inferior or anything less than equal to the Father in being and value. Paul wants to be sure his readers remember this is true also of the relationship between man and woman before he says anything else. Why? So that it is clear that his following words about specific roles and actions are by NO means an example or inferiority of inequality in worth!
3)The main point of this whole passage is a divinely inspired reminder from Paul that BOTH men and women in the church approach and worship the LORD in a manner that honors both Him and their relationship to one another. The references to “head coverings” is as an outward expression of an inward problem and sin. The specific use and symbolism of their “head coverings” was specific to their culture, but the principles are universal.
4)The Scriptural teaching in a ’nutshell’: “Both men and women are to honor God in their public worship of Him. This includes men acting like men and women acting like women, visibly showing to others (as they would understand) an appreciation of one’s own gender and their God-given relationship to the those of the other gender. To do otherwise is not only an offense to society and one another, but an offense to God.”
5)Further, the very fact that Paul is here giving women instructions on how they should pray and prophesy in public worship testifies to the fact that not only did they do so in the NT church, but they were encouraged to continue to do so – but in the right way and with the right attitude! That is, in a way which respects and honors their God-given genders and interrelationships.
B. SPEAKING & TEACHING – 1 Timothy 2:11-15
Once again, judgment must be reserved until we justly consider:
1)The theme and context of this letter to Timothy from Paul is to warn Timothy against false teachings in the church and accordingly maintain proper conduct in God’s house.
2)We know from the full context of these letters, as well as that to Titus and other extra-biblical documents that these false teachings in this time and in this area were most often targeted at women and strongly persuaded them to defy traditional role distinctions and assert themselves even over and above the men. This was causing great discord and trouble in the church. Paul here is specifically addressing this situation.
3)This admonishment begins with a command to the men to “Let women learn. . .” In spite of popular beliefs at that time that women were incapable of learning, Paul desired and commanded that they do so. BUT, in a manner which is appropriate to proper and orderly worship.
4)“In silence with all submission” is about attitude more than action. The key word, attitude and action here is “submission.” “Silence” is the appropriate form of submission in this particular circumstance. What is this particular circumstance? v. 8 – at a time in public worship when the men are publicly praying and speaking. vv. 13-14 clearly reaffirm that this is once again an issue NOT of value, worth, or even ability but of honoring God by honoring the distinct roles He gave each of us.
5)“To teach or have authority over a man” go together. We have already seen that elsewhere Paul (equally inspired by the Holy Spirit as he is here) acknowledges and even encourages women to pray, speak and teach in public, including at times with men present. Here, the prohibition is NOT against any and all teaching, but against “authoritative teaching,” prophesying or prayer. What’s the difference? What I will call “regular teaching” (which is acceptable of women, even in the presence of men) is that which proclaims: “This is what I see and understand to be true and possibly from the Lord.” “Authoritative teaching” (which is biblically prohibited of women and un-designated men) is that which proclaims: “This IS what the LORD is telling us/you”; OR, “what you have said is categorically wrong and unscriptural.” The problem in Ephesus that Paul is addressing in this letter that of women who, encouraged by these false teachers, are interrupting and/or challenging the leading men in their official teachings of God’s Word. In doing so, they have ceased being ’helpmates’ and have instead become usurpers and dominators. THAT is the problem and the prohibition.
To answer the question, then, is it Biblical for women to publicly speak, pray, lead worship and engage in what we have just called “regular teaching” in the church and before men? YES, so long as they do so in a manner and with an attitude that is respectful to and continues recognizes the God-given authority of men.
Is it Biblical for women to authoritatively preach the Word of God to men or publicly challenge the authoritative preaching of a called man? NO, never – at least according to Scripture.
CONCLUSION: THE VITAL ROLE OF WOMEN IN CHRIST
I recognize this has been a lot to hear and digest – both emotionally and intellectually. Please, therefore, be sure to pick up my complete sermon transcripts for further and slower study, meditation and prayer.
Let me end and summarize by saying that there are countless many ways in which women may and should serve God as a part of His church and be honored and cherished by all! There are but a very few restrictions and even these apply also to most men in many respects. As revealed by the Almighty God, through His Scripture, both men and women are perfectly equal in their value, worth, and created ability to reflect the image and glory of God! Yet, God has created and assigned us to do this together in a partnership relationship that requires both male leadership and female assistance.
Consider also the words of a seasoned and godly woman, Pastor’s wife and author, Dorothy Patterson:
“The church has never sought to suppress gifts God has given but rather strives to ensure full and proper use of those gifts in a divinely given framework based upon natural order of creation and appropriateness of function within a master plan. One cannot accept the Bible as authoritative while rejecting its authority concerning home and church order. One cannot negate truths concerning the structure of church and home, such as the image of the relationship between God and Israel and between Christ and the church, just to satisfy cultural whim or to accommodate higher plateaus of education and opportunity. One cannot lift outward manifestations, such as a man’s prayer posture or a woman’s head covering (1 Corinthians 11), and use them to ridicule or belittle the timeless directives given to protect and edify men and women within the Kingdom.
Without doubt women did have a variety of positions of service, influence, and even leadership and teaching in the early church. The text of Scripture, however, bears witness that the functions they assumed were done with modesty and order (1 Corinthians 11:2-16; 14:40), and that they did not teach or exercise authority over men” (from her article, “Why I Believe Southern Baptist Churches Should Not Ordain Women” in Baptist History and Heritage, vol. xxiii, no. 3 (July 1988): 61-62 as it appears in Recovering Biblical Manhood and Womanhood, pg. 259.)
