Be Quiet :: Bible Critics

Bible critics assert that the beloved apostle Paul was a male chauvinist. One might inquire, â€Å"How do they support such a claim?† Critics of the sacred writings often flee to 1st Corinthians 14:34-35 to buttress their accusations of apostolic misogyny citing Paul’s infamous command, â€Å"The women are to keep silent in the churches; for they are not permitted to speak, but are to subject themselves, just as the Law also says. If they desire to learn anything, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is improper for a woman to speak in church.† Let us employ some excellent, fundamental, Bible study techniques to determine the meaning of Paul’s words. First, Biblical passages do not contradict one another, â€Å"The sum of Your word is truth† (Psalm 119:160). 1st Timothy 2:11-12 states that edification for women in the assembly is allowable provided it’s accompanied by a quiet, submissive attitude. Also, women may prophesy as long as their head is covered (1st Cor. 11:5). Therefore, we must interpret the silence of 1st Cor. 14:34 with the former passages in mind. Moreover, let us remember the ancient Biblical real estate law, â€Å"Location, location, location, â€Å"Context, context, context.† Biblical passages must be interpreted with the context in mind, and the context of 1st Corinthians 14 is the Corinthian is authority and the abuse of spiritual gifts. Therefore, let us examine the word silence in its proper context. Silence is the Greek word sigao, and it’s not used to denote absolute, unqualified silence. Therefore, we must look to the context to determine the type of silence in view. Allow me to illustrate. Discussing the physical toll of refusing to confess sin, David wrote, â€Å"When I kept silent about my sin †¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Psalm 32:3). The word silent doesn’t mean he never spoke, rather it means he never spoke or confessed his adultery. Let’s look at a New Testament example. Jesus took Peter and the sons of thunder, James and John, with him on the mountain to pray. The blessed trio witnessed the transfiguration of Jesus, saw and heard his discussion with Moses and Elijah, and they heard God’s command from heaven to listen to his Son. How did the disciples respond? Be Quiet :: Bible Critics Bible critics assert that the beloved apostle Paul was a male chauvinist. One might inquire, â€Å"How do they support such a claim?† Critics of the sacred writings often flee to 1st Corinthians 14:34-35 to buttress their accusations of apostolic misogyny citing Paul’s infamous command, â€Å"The women are to keep silent in the churches; for they are not permitted to speak, but are to subject themselves, just as the Law also says. If they desire to learn anything, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is improper for a woman to speak in church.† Let us employ some excellent, fundamental, Bible study techniques to determine the meaning of Paul’s words. First, Biblical passages do not contradict one another, â€Å"The sum of Your word is truth† (Psalm 119:160). 1st Timothy 2:11-12 states that edification for women in the assembly is allowable provided it’s accompanied by a quiet, submissive attitude. Also, women may prophesy as long as their head is covered (1st Cor. 11:5). Therefore, we must interpret the silence of 1st Cor. 14:34 with the former passages in mind. Moreover, let us remember the ancient Biblical real estate law, â€Å"Location, location, location, â€Å"Context, context, context.† Biblical passages must be interpreted with the context in mind, and the context of 1st Corinthians 14 is the Corinthian is authority and the abuse of spiritual gifts. Therefore, let us examine the word silence in its proper context. Silence is the Greek word sigao, and it’s not used to denote absolute, unqualified silence. Therefore, we must look to the context to determine the type of silence in view. Allow me to illustrate. Discussing the physical toll of refusing to confess sin, David wrote, â€Å"When I kept silent about my sin †¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Psalm 32:3). The word silent doesn’t mean he never spoke, rather it means he never spoke or confessed his adultery. Let’s look at a New Testament example. Jesus took Peter and the sons of thunder, James and John, with him on the mountain to pray. The blessed trio witnessed the transfiguration of Jesus, saw and heard his discussion with Moses and Elijah, and they heard God’s command from heaven to listen to his Son. How did the disciples respond?