Women

In the previous post we noted six things that are vital to a proper understanding of Paul’s words in 1 Timothy 2:11-14. It would be best if you read part 1 before reading this post. Does the Bible really say a woman is not permitted to teach a man? Let’s put the pieces together and see where they lead.

12 I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; rather, she is to remain quiet. 13 For Adam was formed first, then Eve; 14 and Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor. (1 Tim. 2:12–14 ESV)

This passage is not about women teaching men, but our English translations certainly make it appear this way. This passage is not about women teaching men in the church. Neither is it about women serving in positions of authority in the church. In fact, the church assembly isn’t found in the context of 1 Timothy at all.

12 I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; rather, she is to remain quiet. 13 For Adam was formed first, then Eve; 14 and Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor. (1 Tim. 2:12–14 ESV)

This is one of the most misunderstood and abused passages in the entire Bible. It has been misinterpreted and misapplied for centuries leading to absurd, inconsistent, and even cruel practices directed toward women. The way in which this passage has been translated into English has contributed greatly to the problem. 

1 Timothy 2:10-14, at first glance, appears to be very straight forward. However, it requires more than just a casual reading. The passage is multi-layered and therefore, it is best approached like peeling an onion: uncovering one layer at a time. There is nothing difficult in these layers. Nevertheless, there are clues that are typically overlooked which are vital if we are to properly understand what Paul is communicating. Once the fundamentals of the passage are understood, it almost interprets itself.