Women And Christianity Pt. 2

Secondly, the women are to learn with “entire submissiveness”. The Greek word translated “submissiveness” is hypotage. Hypotage means to submit to those who are in authority. In the worship service, the woman must assume the position of a learner rather than a teacher.

This leads to the second clause of verse 12. The Apostle states that the woman is not permitted to teach. Paul’s declaration that women are not to teach is not absolute; that is, it does not imply that women are not to teach in every situation. There are Scriptures that speak of situations in which women are commanded to teach. Again, this prohibition relates to teaching (preaching the Word) in the worship assembly where there would be the presence of men.

Continuing in verse 12, the Apostle then prohibits the women from ‘exercising authority over the men’. The very nature of teaching others has in that respect a superiority over them, which is not allowed the woman over the man. Is this not implied by Jesus when He stated, in Matthew 10:24, “A disciple is not above his teacher.” It is only logical to conclude that a teacher is above the disciple or learner. Yet, a woman is not to exercise such authority over the men in the the assembly.

However, I personally believe that the law against women exercising authority over the men goes further than just preaching in the worship assembly. It also alludes to the second ministry that is prohibited for women -

II. Holding Offices In The Church.

The Lord intends that each of His congregations have individuals who oversee and govern the affairs of the congregation. These individuals, who hold such authoritative positions within the local congregations, are referred to as elders/bishops/pastors. Secondary in authority are those who are referred to as deacons.

The Scriptures make it plain that such positions or offices belong exclusively to men. Concerning elders/bishops/pastors, we read - 1 Timothy 3:1-2, “It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife.” Titus 1:5-6, “For this reason I left you in Crete, that you would set in order what remains and appoint elders in every city as I directed you, namely, if any man is above reproach, the husband of one wife, having children who believe.” Concerning deacons, we read - 1 Timothy 3:8, 12, “Deacons likewise must be men...Deacons must be husbands of only one wife, and good managers of their children and their own households.”

In agreement with these Scriptures, we will not find any examples in the book of Acts or the Epistles of women holding an authoritative office or ministry within a congregation.

Some may object and assert that these prohibitions (i.e., preaching in the worship assembly or holding authoritative offices) were laid down in the 1st Century of the Church to not upset the traditional and cultural standards in regard to men/women roles. Certainly, it is asserted, with the more egalitarian norms of our present culture, such prohibitions are unnecessary and maybe offensive.