Women in ministry . . .

Question:  What gives? Some denominations ordain women, to others, it is an anathema. I’m confused. Does the Bible contradict itself, or is one of the camps misinformed? Further, why are Southern Baptist, the Churches of Christ, and the Catholic Church so nasty about this?

Answer: Male chauvinism is nothing new, it is as old as the Bible itself. Some think that perhaps Adam was the first since he tried to claim the high ground by blaming Eve for misleading and tempting him. Be that as it may be, however, let us look at one of the most quoted scriptures that are used in favor of denying women equal status in the ministry.

First Corinthians 14:33–35 states, 

“As in all the congregations of the saints, women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak but must be in submission, as the Law says. If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church” (ESV). 

Some take this verse as a hard and fast rule that all women should absolutely remain silent in the church; thereby, excluding them from any pastoral or priestly role. However, we notice that earlier in the same epistle (1 Corinthians 11:5), Paul allows women to pray and prophesy in the church. So, what gives is that the prohibition must be taken in context. Apparently, not all women in Corinth 14:33–35 were to remain silent at all times in the church services. So, the prohibition must be limited in some way by the context. The context is simply this: in Corinth, there were two groups of women, those that were chatterboxes, perhaps even gossips; and there were those anointed women who were called and capable of leadership. We also know that elsewhere scripture states that:

“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:28).

Further, the New Testament is resplendent with women in ministry. And, surely no one would argue that women are excluded from the ministry gifts of the Spirit listed in 1 Corinthians 12: 1-11, if so, then why did Paul say in verse one: “Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers, and sisters …” if women were excluded?

Now for those that are interested to follow this discussion further, I refer you to an excellent “Position Paper” on The Role of Women in the Ministry by clicking onto the underlined portion of this sentence.

Finally, I wouldn’t say any of the groups mentioned are “nasty” by opposing the ordination of women; I would rather give them the benefit of the doubt and say that they sincerely believe these things. I will say, however, in my opinion. by are bucking the tide of culture and times as well as the clear teaching of scripture. Perhaps, I will not see the change against that in my lifetime but most certainly I feel that in the lifetime of my grandchildren change will come, including in the Catholic Church. 

Trust this helps,

Take care, and remember He cares for you!

 JimR_/