The Role of Women in the Ministry Copyright by Norman L. Geisler 2006

The Role of Women in the Ministry Thesis: Women are equal with men in nature, in redemption, and in ministry; women and men differ only in function. The Role of Women in the Ministry Thesis: Women are equal with men in nature, in redemption, and in ministry; women and men differ only in function.

The Role of Women in the Ministry I. Women are Equal to Men in Nature II. Women are Equal to Men in Redemptive Status III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts IV. Women are Different from men in Function. I. Women are Equal to Men in Nature II. Women are Equal to Men in Redemptive Status III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts IV. Women are Different from men in Function.

I. Women are Equal to Men in Nature A. Both are Made in the Image of God A. Both are Made in the Image of God “God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them” (Gen. 1:27; 5:1-2). B. Both are Dependent on the Other B. Both are Dependent on the Other “In the Lord, however, woman is not independent of man, nor is man independent of woman. For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman (1 Cor. 11:11-12). A. Both are Made in the Image of God A. Both are Made in the Image of God “God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them” (Gen. 1:27; 5:1-2). B. Both are Dependent on the Other B. Both are Dependent on the Other “In the Lord, however, woman is not independent of man, nor is man independent of woman. For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman (1 Cor. 11:11-12).

II. Women are Equal to Men in Redemptive Status A. The Need of Redemption “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned—” Translations (of Gk. anthropos=human being). Translations (of Gk. anthropos=human being). NET–“all people” NET–“all people” NAB–“all [persons]” NLT–“the entire human race” TEV–“the whole human race” Many–“all men” A. The Need of Redemption “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned—” Translations (of Gk. anthropos=human being). Translations (of Gk. anthropos=human being). NET–“all people” NET–“all people” NAB–“all [persons]” NLT–“the entire human race” TEV–“the whole human race” Many–“all men”

B. The Provision of Redemption “ Consequently, just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men” [anthropos] (Rom. 5:18). “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Gal. 3:28). “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (Jn. 3:16). Note: “world” (cosmos) includes men and women. “ Consequently, just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men” [anthropos] (Rom. 5:18). “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Gal. 3:28). “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (Jn. 3:16). Note: “world” (cosmos) includes men and women.

III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts A. Both Have the Same Spiritual Gifts

III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts A. Both Have the Same Spiritual Gifts “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good” (1 Cor. 12:4-7). A. Both Have the Same Spiritual Gifts “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good” (1 Cor. 12:4-7).

III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts A. Both Have the Same Spiritual Gifts There are no sex symbols by any gifts (1Cor. 12:8-10). There are no sex symbols by any gifts (1Cor. 12:8-10). It does not say “gift of teaching” (M) It does not say “gift of helps” (F) It does not say “gift of helps” (F) A. Both Have the Same Spiritual Gifts There are no sex symbols by any gifts (1Cor. 12:8-10). There are no sex symbols by any gifts (1Cor. 12:8-10). It does not say “gift of teaching” (M) It does not say “gift of helps” (F) It does not say “gift of helps” (F)

III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts B. There Were Women Prophetesses in the New Testament “Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess…who did not depart from the temple but served God with fasting and prayers night and day” (Lk. 2:37-37). “Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess…who did not depart from the temple but served God with fasting and prayers night and day” (Lk. 2:37-37). B. There Were Women Prophetesses in the New Testament “Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess…who did not depart from the temple but served God with fasting and prayers night and day” (Lk. 2:37-37). “Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess…who did not depart from the temple but served God with fasting and prayers night and day” (Lk. 2:37-37).

III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts B. There Were Women Prophetesses in the New Testament “Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess…who did not depart from the temple but served God with fasting and prayers night and day” (Lk. 2:37-37). “Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess…who did not depart from the temple but served God with fasting and prayers night and day” (Lk. 2:37-37). “Now this man [Philip the evangelist] had four virgin daughters who prophesied” (Acts 21:9). “Now this man [Philip the evangelist] had four virgin daughters who prophesied” (Acts 21:9). B. There Were Women Prophetesses in the New Testament “Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess…who did not depart from the temple but served God with fasting and prayers night and day” (Lk. 2:37-37). “Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess…who did not depart from the temple but served God with fasting and prayers night and day” (Lk. 2:37-37). “Now this man [Philip the evangelist] had four virgin daughters who prophesied” (Acts 21:9). “Now this man [Philip the evangelist] had four virgin daughters who prophesied” (Acts 21:9).

III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts C. The Woman Priscilla Helped Teach the Man Apollos

III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts C. The Woman Priscilla Helped Teach the Man Apollos “When Priscilla [a woman] and Aquila heard him [Apollos, the teacher], they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately” (Acts 18:26). “When Priscilla [a woman] and Aquila heard him [Apollos, the teacher], they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately” (Acts 18:26). C. The Woman Priscilla Helped Teach the Man Apollos “When Priscilla [a woman] and Aquila heard him [Apollos, the teacher], they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately” (Acts 18:26). “When Priscilla [a woman] and Aquila heard him [Apollos, the teacher], they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately” (Acts 18:26).

III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts D. Women Prayed and Prophesied with Men in Spiritual Gatherings

III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts D. Women Prayed and Prophesied with Men in Spiritual Gatherings “These all continued with one accord in prayer with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers” (Acts 1:14). “These all continued with one accord in prayer with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers” (Acts 1:14). D. Women Prayed and Prophesied with Men in Spiritual Gatherings “These all continued with one accord in prayer with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers” (Acts 1:14). “These all continued with one accord in prayer with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers” (Acts 1:14).

III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts D. Women Prayed and Prophesied with Men in Spiritual Gatherings “These all continued with one accord in prayer with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers” (Acts 1:14). “These all continued with one accord in prayer with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers” (Acts 1:14). “Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head. And every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head...” “Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head. And every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head...” (1 Cor. 11:4-5). D. Women Prayed and Prophesied with Men in Spiritual Gatherings “These all continued with one accord in prayer with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers” (Acts 1:14). “These all continued with one accord in prayer with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers” (Acts 1:14). “Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head. And every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head...” “Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head. And every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head...” (1 Cor. 11:4-5).

III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts E. The exhortation for women to “keep silent” is not general but related only to specific occasions (1 Cor. 14:34).

III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts E. The exhortation for women to “keep silent” is not general but related only to specific occasions (1 Cor. 14:34). 1. Elsewhere, women in general were told how to speak in church (1 Cor. 11:4-5). 1. Elsewhere, women in general were told how to speak in church (1 Cor. 11:4-5). E. The exhortation for women to “keep silent” is not general but related only to specific occasions (1 Cor. 14:34). 1. Elsewhere, women in general were told how to speak in church (1 Cor. 11:4-5). 1. Elsewhere, women in general were told how to speak in church (1 Cor. 11:4-5).

III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts E. The exhortation for women to “keep silent” is not general but related only to specific occasions (1Cor. 14:34). 1. Elsewhere, women in general were told how to speak in church (1Cor. 11:4-5). 1. Elsewhere, women in general were told how to speak in church (1Cor. 11:4-5). 2. Men were also told when to be silent in church in certain contexts (14:28,30). 2. Men were also told when to be silent in church in certain contexts (14:28,30). E. The exhortation for women to “keep silent” is not general but related only to specific occasions (1Cor. 14:34). 1. Elsewhere, women in general were told how to speak in church (1Cor. 11:4-5). 1. Elsewhere, women in general were told how to speak in church (1Cor. 11:4-5). 2. Men were also told when to be silent in church in certain contexts (14:28,30). 2. Men were also told when to be silent in church in certain contexts (14:28,30).

III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts E. The exhortation for women to “keep silent” is not general but related only to specific occasions (1 Cor. 14:34). 1. Elsewhere, women in general were told how to speak in church (1 Cor. 11:4-5). 1. Elsewhere, women in general were told how to speak in church (1 Cor. 11:4-5). 2. Men were also told when to be silent in church in certain contexts (14:28,30). 2. Men were also told when to be silent in church in certain contexts (14:28,30). 3. The context here relates to wives who were talking with their husbands (14:35) while the service was going on. 3. The context here relates to wives who were talking with their husbands (14:35) while the service was going on. E. The exhortation for women to “keep silent” is not general but related only to specific occasions (1 Cor. 14:34). 1. Elsewhere, women in general were told how to speak in church (1 Cor. 11:4-5). 1. Elsewhere, women in general were told how to speak in church (1 Cor. 11:4-5). 2. Men were also told when to be silent in church in certain contexts (14:28,30). 2. Men were also told when to be silent in church in certain contexts (14:28,30). 3. The context here relates to wives who were talking with their husbands (14:35) while the service was going on. 3. The context here relates to wives who were talking with their husbands (14:35) while the service was going on.

III. Women are Equal to Men in Spiritual Gifts E. The exhortation for women to “keep silent” is not general but related only to specific occasions (1 Cor. 14:34). 1. Elsewhere, women in general were told how to speak in church (1 Cor. 11:4-5). 1. Elsewhere, women in general were told how to speak in church (1 Cor. 11:4-5). 2. Men were also told when to be silent in church in certain contexts (14:28,30). 2. Men were also told when to be silent in church in certain contexts (14:28,30). 3. The context here relates to wives who were talking with their husbands (14:35) while the service was going on. 3. The context here relates to wives who were talking with their husbands (14:35) while the service was going on. Note: “Women” (gunaikes) often means “wives” (e.g., 14 times in 1 Cor. 7) and always when used with the word “submission” (v. 34 cf. Eph. 5:22; Col. 3:18). E. The exhortation for women to “keep silent” is not general but related only to specific occasions (1 Cor. 14:34). 1. Elsewhere, women in general were told how to speak in church (1 Cor. 11:4-5). 1. Elsewhere, women in general were told how to speak in church (1 Cor. 11:4-5). 2. Men were also told when to be silent in church in certain contexts (14:28,30). 2. Men were also told when to be silent in church in certain contexts (14:28,30). 3. The context here relates to wives who were talking with their husbands (14:35) while the service was going on. 3. The context here relates to wives who were talking with their husbands (14:35) while the service was going on. Note: “Women” (gunaikes) often means “wives” (e.g., 14 times in 1 Cor. 7) and always when used with the word “submission” (v. 34 cf. Eph. 5:22; Col. 3:18).

IV. Women are Different from Men in Function A. Some Functions are Superior (e.g., child- bearing and child-nurturing)..

IV. Women are Different from Men in Function A. Some Functions are Superior (e.g., child- bearing and child-nurturing) “For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God” (1 Cor. 11:12). “For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God” (1 Cor. 11:12). “But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety” (1 Tim. 2:15). “But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety” (1 Tim. 2:15). A. Some Functions are Superior (e.g., child- bearing and child-nurturing) “For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God” (1 Cor. 11:12). “For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God” (1 Cor. 11:12). “But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety” (1 Tim. 2:15). “But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety” (1 Tim. 2:15).

IV. Women are Different from Men in Function A. Some Functions are Superior (e.g., child- bearing and child-nurturing) “For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God” (1 Cor. 11:12). “For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God” (1 Cor. 11:12). “But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety” (1 Tim. 2:15). “But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety” (1 Tim. 2:15). Four Views : “saved” [Gk. = delivered]-- a) from the difficult physical process of childbearing; b) by the ultimate childbirth of the Savior; c) from the corruption of society by being at home raising children. d) from insignificance by virtue of role as wife and mother. A. Some Functions are Superior (e.g., child- bearing and child-nurturing) “For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God” (1 Cor. 11:12). “For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God” (1 Cor. 11:12). “But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety” (1 Tim. 2:15). “But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety” (1 Tim. 2:15). Four Views : “saved” [Gk. = delivered]-- a) from the difficult physical process of childbearing; b) by the ultimate childbirth of the Savior; c) from the corruption of society by being at home raising children. d) from insignificance by virtue of role as wife and mother.

IV. Women are Different from Men in Function A. Some Functions are Superior (e.g., child- bearing and child-nurturing) “For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God” (1 Cor. 11:12). “For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God” (1 Cor. 11:12). “But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety” (1Tim. 2:15). “But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety” (1Tim. 2:15). Four Views : “saved” [Gk. = delivered]-- a) from the difficult physical process of childbearing; b) by the ultimate childbirth of the Savior; c) from the corruption of society by being at home raising children. d) from insignificance by virtue of role as wife and mother. This fits the context better, namely, (1) with not usurping man’s role as church leader and (2) with the fact that it is conditioned on continuing in faith and holiness. A. Some Functions are Superior (e.g., child- bearing and child-nurturing) “For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God” (1 Cor. 11:12). “For as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God” (1 Cor. 11:12). “But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety” (1Tim. 2:15). “But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety” (1Tim. 2:15). Four Views : “saved” [Gk. = delivered]-- a) from the difficult physical process of childbearing; b) by the ultimate childbirth of the Savior; c) from the corruption of society by being at home raising children. d) from insignificance by virtue of role as wife and mother. This fits the context better, namely, (1) with not usurping man’s role as church leader and (2) with the fact that it is conditioned on continuing in faith and holiness.

A. Some Functions are Superior (e.g., childbearing & nurturing) Walvoord, ed.: “A woman will find her greatest satisfaction and meaning in life, not in seeking a male role, but in fulfilling God’s design for her as wife and mother with all “faith, love, and holiness with propriety” (Bible Knowledge Comm., 2.736).

A. Some Functions are Superior (e.g., childbearing & nurturing) Walvoord, ed.: “A woman will find her greatest satisfaction and meaning in life, not in seeking a male role, but in fulfilling God’s design for her as wife and mother with all “faith, love, and holiness with propriety” (Bible Knowledge Comm., 2.736). A. T. Robertson: Paul had “mostly in mind that child-bearing, not public teaching, is the peculiar function of woman with a glory and dignity all its own” (Word Pictures in the NT, ). Walvoord, ed.: “A woman will find her greatest satisfaction and meaning in life, not in seeking a male role, but in fulfilling God’s design for her as wife and mother with all “faith, love, and holiness with propriety” (Bible Knowledge Comm., 2.736). A. T. Robertson: Paul had “mostly in mind that child-bearing, not public teaching, is the peculiar function of woman with a glory and dignity all its own” (Word Pictures in the NT, ).

B. Some Functions are Submissive 1. Women should submit to their husbands “Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior” (Eph. 5:22 cf.Titus 2:4-5). 1. Women should submit to their husbands “Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior” (Eph. 5:22 cf.Titus 2:4-5).

B. Some Functions are Submissive 1. Women should submit to their husbands “Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior” (Eph. 5:22 cf.Titus 2:4-5). Note: “Husbands love your wives just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it” (Eph. 5:23). a) Submission is voluntary, not compulsory. a) Submission is voluntary, not compulsory. b) Submission is not to a lord but to a lover. b) Submission is not to a lord but to a lover. c) Submission is not absolute but only “under God.” c) Submission is not absolute but only “under God.” 1) Submit when they take their place under God. 2) But not when they take the place of God (Ex. 1, 12; Dan. 3, 6; Acts 4-5; Rev. 13). 1. Women should submit to their husbands “Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior” (Eph. 5:22 cf.Titus 2:4-5). Note: “Husbands love your wives just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it” (Eph. 5:23). a) Submission is voluntary, not compulsory. a) Submission is voluntary, not compulsory. b) Submission is not to a lord but to a lover. b) Submission is not to a lord but to a lover. c) Submission is not absolute but only “under God.” c) Submission is not absolute but only “under God.” 1) Submit when they take their place under God. 2) But not when they take the place of God (Ex. 1, 12; Dan. 3, 6; Acts 4-5; Rev. 13).

B. Some Functions are Submissive 2. Women should submit to Elders of the Church a. All elders were "a husband" of one wife (1 Tim. 3:2). b. All deacons were also men. 1. “A husband of one wife” (1 Tim. 3:12). 1. “A husband of one wife” (1 Tim. 3:12). 2. Only men were appointed as deacons (Acts 6:3-6). 2. Only men were appointed as deacons (Acts 6:3-6). 3. Phoebe was a “servant” (Rom.16:1 KJV, ASV, NASB, NKJV) but not on a Board of Deacons (Phil. 1:1). 3. Phoebe was a “servant” (Rom.16:1 KJV, ASV, NASB, NKJV) but not on a Board of Deacons (Phil. 1:1) Tim. 3:11 should be translated “wives” (as KJV, ASV, NASB, NKJV) because: 4. 1 Tim. 3:11 should be translated “wives” (as KJV, ASV, NASB, NKJV) because: a) It is the word for “wives” (gunaikas) not “deacons.” b) The same word is often used for “wife” (1 Cor. 7). c) A deacon must be a “husband” (v. 12). e) The other view interrupts the flow of the text. f) Otherwise the list of qualification is truncated. g) It is against Paul’s general principle (1 Tim. 2:12). 2. Women should submit to Elders of the Church a. All elders were "a husband" of one wife (1 Tim. 3:2). b. All deacons were also men. 1. “A husband of one wife” (1 Tim. 3:12). 1. “A husband of one wife” (1 Tim. 3:12). 2. Only men were appointed as deacons (Acts 6:3-6). 2. Only men were appointed as deacons (Acts 6:3-6). 3. Phoebe was a “servant” (Rom.16:1 KJV, ASV, NASB, NKJV) but not on a Board of Deacons (Phil. 1:1). 3. Phoebe was a “servant” (Rom.16:1 KJV, ASV, NASB, NKJV) but not on a Board of Deacons (Phil. 1:1) Tim. 3:11 should be translated “wives” (as KJV, ASV, NASB, NKJV) because: 4. 1 Tim. 3:11 should be translated “wives” (as KJV, ASV, NASB, NKJV) because: a) It is the word for “wives” (gunaikas) not “deacons.” b) The same word is often used for “wife” (1 Cor. 7). c) A deacon must be a “husband” (v. 12). e) The other view interrupts the flow of the text. f) Otherwise the list of qualification is truncated. g) It is against Paul’s general principle (1 Tim. 2:12).

B. Some Functions are Submissive 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church c. All the apostles were men. c. All the apostles were men. 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church c. All the apostles were men. c. All the apostles were men.

B. Some Functions are Submissive 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church c. All the apostles were men. c. All the apostles were men. 1) They all have male names (Mt. 10:1f.). 1) They all have male names (Mt. 10:1f.). 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church c. All the apostles were men. c. All the apostles were men. 1) They all have male names (Mt. 10:1f.). 1) They all have male names (Mt. 10:1f.).

B. Some Functions are Submissive 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church c. All the apostles were men. c. All the apostles were men. 1) They all have male names (Mt. 10:1f.). 1) They all have male names (Mt. 10:1f.). 2) The masculine pronoun (“he”) is used of them. 2) The masculine pronoun (“he”) is used of them. 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church c. All the apostles were men. c. All the apostles were men. 1) They all have male names (Mt. 10:1f.). 1) They all have male names (Mt. 10:1f.). 2) The masculine pronoun (“he”) is used of them. 2) The masculine pronoun (“he”) is used of them.

B. Some Functions are Submissive 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church c. All the apostles were men. c. All the apostles were men. 1) They all have male names (Mt. 10:1f.). 1) They all have male names (Mt. 10:1f.). 2) The masculine pronoun (“he”) is used of them. 2) The masculine pronoun (“he”) is used of them. 3) They were also elders (1Pet. 5:1; 2Jn. 1). and all elders were males. 3) They were also elders (1Pet. 5:1; 2Jn. 1). and all elders were males. 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church c. All the apostles were men. c. All the apostles were men. 1) They all have male names (Mt. 10:1f.). 1) They all have male names (Mt. 10:1f.). 2) The masculine pronoun (“he”) is used of them. 2) The masculine pronoun (“he”) is used of them. 3) They were also elders (1Pet. 5:1; 2Jn. 1). and all elders were males. 3) They were also elders (1Pet. 5:1; 2Jn. 1). and all elders were males.

B. Some Functions are Submissive 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church c. All the apostles were men. c. All the apostles were men. 1) They all have masculine names (Mt. 10:1f.). 1) They all have masculine names (Mt. 10:1f.). 2) The masculine pronoun (“he”) is used of them. 2) The masculine pronoun (“he”) is used of them. 3) They were also elders (1 Pet. 5:1; 2 Jn. 1). and all elders were males. 3) They were also elders (1 Pet. 5:1; 2 Jn. 1). and all elders were males. 4) Junia (Rom. 16:7) is also a male name and was not an apostle but simply one “of note among the apostles,” i.e., recognized in apostolic circles. 4) Junia (Rom. 16:7) is also a male name and was not an apostle but simply one “of note among the apostles,” i.e., recognized in apostolic circles. 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church c. All the apostles were men. c. All the apostles were men. 1) They all have masculine names (Mt. 10:1f.). 1) They all have masculine names (Mt. 10:1f.). 2) The masculine pronoun (“he”) is used of them. 2) The masculine pronoun (“he”) is used of them. 3) They were also elders (1 Pet. 5:1; 2 Jn. 1). and all elders were males. 3) They were also elders (1 Pet. 5:1; 2 Jn. 1). and all elders were males. 4) Junia (Rom. 16:7) is also a male name and was not an apostle but simply one “of note among the apostles,” i.e., recognized in apostolic circles. 4) Junia (Rom. 16:7) is also a male name and was not an apostle but simply one “of note among the apostles,” i.e., recognized in apostolic circles.

B. Some Functions are Submissive 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church d. Women were not to usurp “authority over a man" (1 Tim. 2:12 cf. Heb. 13:17). “I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent. For Adam was formed first, then Eve” (1 Tim. 2:11- 13). “I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent. For Adam was formed first, then Eve” (1 Tim. 2:11- 13). 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church d. Women were not to usurp “authority over a man" (1 Tim. 2:12 cf. Heb. 13:17). “I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent. For Adam was formed first, then Eve” (1 Tim. 2:11- 13). “I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent. For Adam was formed first, then Eve” (1 Tim. 2:11- 13).

B. Some Functions are Submissive 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church d. Women were not to usurp “authority over a man" (1 Tim. 2:12 cf. Heb. 13:17). “I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent. For Adam was formed first, then Eve” (1 Tim. 2:11- 13). “I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent. For Adam was formed first, then Eve” (1 Tim. 2:11- 13). e. The reasons given were not cultural; they were: 1) the order of creation (Adam was made first). 1) the order of creation (Adam was made first). 2) the order in the Godhead (1 Cor. 11:3): 2) the order in the Godhead (1 Cor. 11:3): “Now I want you to realize that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God” (cf. 1Cor. 15:28). “Now I want you to realize that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God” (cf. 1Cor. 15:28). 2. Women should submit to the Elders of the Church d. Women were not to usurp “authority over a man" (1 Tim. 2:12 cf. Heb. 13:17). “I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent. For Adam was formed first, then Eve” (1 Tim. 2:11- 13). “I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent. For Adam was formed first, then Eve” (1 Tim. 2:11- 13). e. The reasons given were not cultural; they were: 1) the order of creation (Adam was made first). 1) the order of creation (Adam was made first). 2) the order in the Godhead (1 Cor. 11:3): 2) the order in the Godhead (1 Cor. 11:3): “Now I want you to realize that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God” (cf. 1Cor. 15:28). “Now I want you to realize that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God” (cf. 1Cor. 15:28).

3. Submission Does not Hinder One’s Ministry Look at the Example of Jesus Look at the Example of Jesus “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth...to the glory of God the Father” (Phil. 2:5- 11). Look at the Example of Jesus Look at the Example of Jesus “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth...to the glory of God the Father” (Phil. 2:5- 11).

4. Submission Does not Make Women Inferior If it did, then Christ would be inferior to God in nature since He is always submissive to the Father (1 Cor. 11:3; 15:28).

4. Submission Does not Make Women Inferior If it did, then Christ would be inferior to God in nature since He is always submissive to the Father (1 Cor. 11:3; 15:28). Jesus said: “I can of my own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me” (Jn. 5:30 cf. 8:28). Jesus said: “I can of my own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me” (Jn. 5:30 cf. 8:28). If it did, then Christ would be inferior to God in nature since He is always submissive to the Father (1 Cor. 11:3; 15:28). Jesus said: “I can of my own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me” (Jn. 5:30 cf. 8:28). Jesus said: “I can of my own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me” (Jn. 5:30 cf. 8:28).

C. Some Women with Great Ministries in the Bible 1. Miriam (Ex. 15:20-21)–music ministry 2. Deborah (Jud. 4:4)–judicial ministry 3. Esther (Esther 4:14)–national ministry 4. Huldah (2Kgs 22:14)–prophetic ministry 5. Mary (Luke 1:42)–salvation ministry 6. Junia (Rom. 16:7)–apostolic ministry 7. Phoebe (Rom. 16:1)–scriptural ministry C. Some Women with Great Ministries in the Bible 1. Miriam (Ex. 15:20-21)–music ministry 2. Deborah (Jud. 4:4)–judicial ministry 3. Esther (Esther 4:14)–national ministry 4. Huldah (2Kgs 22:14)–prophetic ministry 5. Mary (Luke 1:42)–salvation ministry 6. Junia (Rom. 16:7)–apostolic ministry 7. Phoebe (Rom. 16:1)–scriptural ministry

D. Some Women with Great Ministries in Modern Times 1. Susanna Wesley (19 children, including John and Charles) 2. Missionary Women (outnumber men nearly 3 to 2) 3. Miss Johnson (Bible Study Fellowship) 4. Kay Arthur (Precept Ministries) 5. Ann Graham Lotz (speaker, author) 6. Betty Elliott (missionary, author, speaker) 7. Beverly LaHaye (Concerned Women) D. Some Women with Great Ministries in Modern Times 1. Susanna Wesley (19 children, including John and Charles) 2. Missionary Women (outnumber men nearly 3 to 2) 3. Miss Johnson (Bible Study Fellowship) 4. Kay Arthur (Precept Ministries) 5. Ann Graham Lotz (speaker, author) 6. Betty Elliott (missionary, author, speaker) 7. Beverly LaHaye (Concerned Women)

You Can Have a Great Ministry E. Most Christian Women have Great Ministries Most of the Time

You Can Have a Great Ministry E. Most Christian Women have Great Ministries Most of the Time 1. “The hand that rocks the cradle, rules the world.” E. Most Christian Women have Great Ministries Most of the Time 1. “The hand that rocks the cradle, rules the world.”

You Can Have a Great Ministry E. Most Christian Women have Great Ministries Most of the Time 1. “The hand that rocks the cradle, rules the world.” 2. Most women do most of the teaching of little children and young people (in their most formative years). E. Most Christian Women have Great Ministries Most of the Time 1. “The hand that rocks the cradle, rules the world.” 2. Most women do most of the teaching of little children and young people (in their most formative years).

You Can Have a Great Ministry E. Most Christian Women have Great Ministries Most of the Time 1. “The hand that rocks the cradle, rules the world.” 2. Most women do most of the teaching of little children and young people (in their most formative years). 3. Behind every great man, there are three great women: E. Most Christian Women have Great Ministries Most of the Time 1. “The hand that rocks the cradle, rules the world.” 2. Most women do most of the teaching of little children and young people (in their most formative years). 3. Behind every great man, there are three great women:

You Can Have a Great Ministry E. Most Christian Women have Great Ministries Most of the Time 1. “The hand that rocks the cradle, rules the world.” 2. Most women do most of the teaching of little children and young people (in their most formative years). 3. Behind every great man, there are three great women: a. A great mother to train him in what to do. E. Most Christian Women have Great Ministries Most of the Time 1. “The hand that rocks the cradle, rules the world.” 2. Most women do most of the teaching of little children and young people (in their most formative years). 3. Behind every great man, there are three great women: a. A great mother to train him in what to do.

You Can Have a Great Ministry E. Most Christian Women have Great Ministries Most of the Time 1. “The hand that rocks the cradle, rules the world.” 2. Most women do most of the teaching of little children and young people (in their most formative years). 3. Behind every great man, there are three great women: a. A great mother to train him in what to do. b. A great wife to tell him what to do. E. Most Christian Women have Great Ministries Most of the Time 1. “The hand that rocks the cradle, rules the world.” 2. Most women do most of the teaching of little children and young people (in their most formative years). 3. Behind every great man, there are three great women: a. A great mother to train him in what to do. b. A great wife to tell him what to do.

You Can Have a Great Ministry E. Most Christian Women have Great Ministries Most of the Time 1. “The hand that rocks the cradle, rules the world.” 2. Most women do most of the teaching of little children and young people (in their most formative years). 3. Behind every great man, there are three great women: a. A great mother to train him in what to do. b. A great wife to tell him what to do. b. A great secretary to do it for him! E. Most Christian Women have Great Ministries Most of the Time 1. “The hand that rocks the cradle, rules the world.” 2. Most women do most of the teaching of little children and young people (in their most formative years). 3. Behind every great man, there are three great women: a. A great mother to train him in what to do. b. A great wife to tell him what to do. b. A great secretary to do it for him!

You Can Have a Great Ministry F. Women Who Ministered to Me 1. Mrs. Costie (hospitality) 2. Mrs. Older & Hannah (jail ministry) 3. Mrs. McCullum (youth sponsor) 4. Mrs. Cate (mother-in-law) 5. Mrs. Geisler (wife) I thank God for the ministry of women! F. Women Who Ministered to Me 1. Mrs. Costie (hospitality) 2. Mrs. Older & Hannah (jail ministry) 3. Mrs. McCullum (youth sponsor) 4. Mrs. Cate (mother-in-law) 5. Mrs. Geisler (wife) I thank God for the ministry of women!

Answering the Tough Questions 1. Are Women equal to men in ministry? Yes 2. Should women minister in the public service? Yes. 3. Ought women to teach men? Yes. 4. Can women be elders? No. 5. Should women be pastors? No (a pastor is an elder by office, and only men should be elders). by office, and only men should be elders). 6. Do women have shepherding gifts? Yes. 7. Should women lead in music ministries? Yes. Conclusion: The ministry of women is unlimited; the authority of women is not. 1. Are Women equal to men in ministry? Yes 2. Should women minister in the public service? Yes. 3. Ought women to teach men? Yes. 4. Can women be elders? No. 5. Should women be pastors? No (a pastor is an elder by office, and only men should be elders). by office, and only men should be elders). 6. Do women have shepherding gifts? Yes. 7. Should women lead in music ministries? Yes. Conclusion: The ministry of women is unlimited; the authority of women is not.

A Summary I. Women are equal with men in nature, in redemption, and in ministry; They differ only in function. I. Women are equal with men in nature, in redemption, and in ministry; They differ only in function.

A Summary I. Women are equal with men in nature, in redemption, and in ministry; They differ only in function. II. In some functions women are superior to men (e. g., child-bearing and nurturing). I. Women are equal with men in nature, in redemption, and in ministry; They differ only in function. II. In some functions women are superior to men (e. g., child-bearing and nurturing).

A Summary I. Women are equal with men in nature, in redemption, and in ministry; They differ only in function. II. In some functions women are superior to men (e. g., child-bearing and nurturing). III. In other functions, viz., the family and the church, women are to follow God- ordained male leadership. I. Women are equal with men in nature, in redemption, and in ministry; They differ only in function. II. In some functions women are superior to men (e. g., child-bearing and nurturing). III. In other functions, viz., the family and the church, women are to follow God- ordained male leadership.

A Summary I. Women are equal with men in nature, in redemption, and in ministry; They differ only in function. II. In some functions women are superior to men (e. g., child-bearing and nurturing). III. In other functions, viz., the family and the church, women are to follow God- ordained male leadership. It is best to follow the King’s way. When we don’t, we make a royal mess of things! I. Women are equal with men in nature, in redemption, and in ministry; They differ only in function. II. In some functions women are superior to men (e. g., child-bearing and nurturing). III. In other functions, viz., the family and the church, women are to follow God- ordained male leadership. It is best to follow the King’s way. When we don’t, we make a royal mess of things!