Order in the Church

Summary:Paul states that God is not a God of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints. He instructs that the women in the churches are to keep silent, not speaking in the assembly, but subjecting themselves, as the Law also says. If they desire to learn anything, they are to ask their own husbands at home, for it is improper for a woman to speak in church. Paul then challenges the Corinthians: the word of God did not originate from them, nor are they the only ones to whom it has come. If anyone thinks he is a prophet or spiritual, he must acknowledge that the things Paul writes are the Lord’s commandment. If someone does not recognize this, he himself is not to be recognized. Paul concludes by urging them to desire to prophesy and not to forbid speaking in tongues. But all things must be done properly and in an orderly manner. Teaching:Paul says that women are to be quiet in the church. He says he does not permit women to speak, but commands them to be in submission, as the Law states. In all of the Old Testament, there is no verse where God explicitly says that women must not speak. However, within the spirit of the Law, the idea is that women are to remain quiet. When women become active in this way, there is usually a pattern: it happens when men become weak or when men depend on women’s help. When a man stands as a leader in a way that God considers upright, women submit to such men. Because men do not know the Word and their faith is weak, women do not submit and instead end up debating with their husbands. It is the men who create the grounds for such debates. A man must have something in his character as a man—something that earns respect from women—in order to be loved and honored by them. Become the kind of husband from whom a wife can learn at home. Do everything properly, and remember that dignity comes from order. Even if your husband seems lacking, respect him and help him become a husband who is worthy of respect.  Excerpt from the sermon by Pastor Lee, Nov 19, 20251 Corinthian 14:33-40