Women's Roles Within the Church Structure - 3

Part III, from yesterday’s post

In the New Testament Egalitarians use the example of Priscilla from the Book of Acts. It states that Priscilla and her husband, Aquinas, led and taught people within their home. Several times in the New Testament, Priscilla’s name is listed before her husband’s. Historically that is astounding, but I have never seen a clear reason for it. Therefore, I believe it needs to be put into context.

If Priscilla was a governmental leader within the church, she would have been recognized and ordained by either Paul, James or Peter, who were the church governmental leaders in their time. One could argue that it may have happened but not stated. I just don’t think that’s possible. God knew that in the next 2000 years woman’s roles within the church structure would become an issue. Since God is the author of the Bible, I have to believe that he wouldn’t leave me or any other women in question as to his intentions on this controversial issue. To put Priscilla in a governmental position, within the church, without fact, is conjecture at best.

Many argue that the Apostle Paul might have contradicted himself on woman’s roles within the different books of the New Testament. Paul wrote more than 1/3 of the New Testament and I believe Paul would not contradict Paul. If he changed his direction and or opinion, he would have said so. Paul clearly stated that women will not teach men. We either believe the word is infallible or not. Too many people make scripture say exactly what they want it to say. Paul’s argument for woman’s role within the church is based on creation in Genesis 1 rather than based on societal issues. He was writing a statement for all time and not just for his day.

Part IV, tomorrow