The Roles of Men and Women In Church

# 60 Today's Prime Time Devo comes from: 1Ti 2:8-15, “I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting; 9 in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, 10 but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works. 11 Let a woman learn in silence with all submission. 12 And I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence. 13 For Adam was formed first, then Eve. 14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression. 15 Nevertheless she will be saved in childbearing if they continue in faith, love, and holiness, with self-control.” (1 Tim 2:8-15) Oh boy. Here's a can of worms in today's church! Should women be allowed to participate in the worship service? This worship service that consisted of supplications, (prayer requests) prayers ( expressions of praise and love of God) intercessions, (petitions on behalf of others) and the giving of thanks? No matter how I answer that question, feathers will be ruffled. Therefore the best advice I can give is to remind you to prayerfully seek out the Word of God and allow it to dictate your actions in a loving manner. The best I can do here is perhaps give you some food for thought as you wrestle with this question. The first thing that strikes me as I read this portion of Timothy is the use of the phrase “the men,” rather than “men.” This terminology indicates a definite difference in the sexes. The term “men” alone would include all adult humans and not differentiate between sexes, but using the term “the men” indicates a biological difference. So Paul starts with the males. This at the very least, indicates a leading role for men in this matter of worship. It's not a perfect illustration, but try to think of it in terms of a dance. Someone has to lead or both participants will be clumsily tripping over each other. Who leads? Usually the man. Is it because he is a better dancer? No! It is only due to God's created order (For Adam was formed first, then Eve.) I don't believe this would be such an issue in the church if men didn't drop the ball of leadership in the first place! The dance must go on and if men won't lead, well someone's got to fill the vacuum! Just some food for thought. Again, as you sort this potentially contentious issue in your fellowship, prayerfully seek the guidance as found in the Word of God and act with wisdom and love.