Lesson 2073

(Lesson 2073)(07-06-17) 1 Corinthians 14:29-40

"Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted. And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church. What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only? If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord. But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant. Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. Let all things be done decently and in order."

Today's quote first encourages prophecy as a very useful tool in the ministry of the church. The quote then deals with a very touchy subject for some in today's churches. That is, the role of women in today's church. Paul seems to lay out a strict rule against women vocally participating in church business. However, I believe Paul was citing the rules that applied under the Law of Moses rather than the rules that prevail in the church established by Jesus Christ. Part of my reasoning for that is the question Paul asked in verse 36; "What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only?". I will readily admit that I'm not absolutely sure that I ever know what that verse means. However, if it indeed means that Paul was defining the rules of the Law concerning women in church, it solidifies my contention.

My thought that Paul was referring to the rules of the Law is further backed up by what is written in Galatians 3:25-28; "But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been *baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, THERE IS NEITHER MALE NOR FEMALE: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus."

If this passage is to be considered true, then female members of today's church are to participate on equal terms with the males.~

*The term "baptized", as it is applied herein, means to be wholly immersed into the life, death, burial, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ through absolute faith in Him.