1st Timothy 2:11. “Let the women learn in silence with all subjection.”
IN SILENCE. Some things are taught by the use of words – Other things are learned best in silence. Often, we are impressed by what we have heard – And other things by watching those sitting beside us. Subjection is not popular among those wanting to lead – But has a lasting impact on spiritual learning. Wisdom is imparted to those willing to heed; Respect and honor are something those in silence are earning.
Some will think the silence of women is a thing of the past – The practice was ancient – historically conditional. And they will insist that it was not intended to last
To this present day and time of women’s emancipation. They often are offended and insist we are wrong – When women are silent in public prayer and preaching, Their contention is that there is no silence when voices in song Are raised in praise – they say that is teaching.
But in the context of scripture, it seems very plain The practice is universal and timeless, like the rest of God’s Word. It is not a question of whether women are less important than men But an order has been established that honors the Lord. Roles are different, because man was made first, he is called to lead – Women with beauty and silence give public evidence Of the attitude of all the gathered company when they meet – That both genders submit to the will of divine Providence.
“The public view of a biblical assembly, Lord God, does give a message of the attitude of all the believers there. It seems like a lot of women are offended because they think equality is measured by everyone being able to do the same thing. Give us the courage and compassion to maintain this timeless, universal, biblical practice of maintaining the roles Thou hast given to us without compromise or complaint. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”
Learning is a continual process in the Christian life. Listening and observing are both positive ways of being instructed and grasping spiritual truths that are necessary for growth. In the public gatherings of an assembly, the place of a public teacher is not given to women because that would usurp the authority that has been given to men. Silence does not indicate lesser intelligence, but is acceptance of divine order. To accept that divine decree does not mean the surrender of one's conscience, nor is it a cause for resentment or bondage. Distinct roles are given to be carried out in public that do not stem from Paul and his background, but from God and His word. Dominion was given to Adam, and the Person of this order was established by God. The divine order of headship, quiet learning, and respecting authority is needed for peaceable assembly life.