Quote:
Originally Posted by Nell
Note that this letter was written by Paul to Timothy...not to a church.
The letter to Timothy was written due to a church situation in Ephesus related to the Ephesian culture, i.e., the church was under the influence of the worship of the Roman goddess Diana (same as Greek goddess Artemis). Jane explains all of these restrictions on women which can be understood in view of temple practices and the Ephesian culture.
1 Timothy 2:8-15 (KJV)
8 I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.
9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;
10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.
11 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.
12 But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.
13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve.
14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.
15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.
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If we turn to the next chapter 3 it lists the requirements of an overseer and deacons and they include being a male (husband of one wife).
1 Timothy 3:1-7 is about overseers. Vs 8-10 are about deacons. And verse 11 is about women. Overseers and deacons are not women. This matches the verse "12 But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man".
The instructions to Timothy also match the instructions to the church at Corinth.
1 Cor 14:35 rules out that Paul was simply speaking his opinion:
If anyone thinks they are a prophet or otherwise gifted by the Spirit, let them acknowledge that
what I am writing to you is the Lord's command.