Day 347: 1 Timothy 1, 2 and 3

I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet (1Timothy 2:12).

This verse has been cited by many as an excuse to limit the ministerial role of women in the church. This is a misapplication of the biblical testimony as a whole, elevating one contested statement from Paul over and against the clear teaching of Jesus. In his teaching on divorce (Mark 10:2-12), Jesus corrects the rabbinical patriarchal tradition by citing God’s original plan for marriage (Genesis 2:24) as having priority over Moses’ instruction in Deuteronomy 24:1 [7]. A convincing argument can be made that hierarchical divisions between male and female resulted from the fall, and were not God’s original intention.

Regarding the 1 Timothy passage, it is interesting to note that when Paul wrote this he was well aware and readily accepted the fact that women were exercising authority in other churches [8]. One point that may alleviate the confusion on this passage is how the Greek authentein (authority) is translated. It has been translated by some as “domineer,” or “act on his/her own authority” [9]. If this is correct, Paul is speaking against women in authority only if administered in the wrong way [10].

Gilbert Bilezikian reminds us that authentein is found nowhere else in Scripture, so we don’t really know exactly what Paul meant [11]. It is irresponsible to build a theology or polity on one disputed text.

TODAY’S MEDITATION

Reflect on the women who have faithfully ministered the gospel to you. Give thanks for them and, if possible, to them.