Women In The Pulpit

The role of women in our society has changed dramatically over the past 40 years or so.  For instance, they are in the workforce in greater numbers and are more prominent in religious movements.  While the former might be an area of concern (i.e. increased number of extra-marital affairs, children raised by surrogates), the latter is the focus of this article.

It is not uncommon to find women in leadership positions among the denominations.  The justification is that women have the talent, skills, intelligence, and desire to hold these positions.  While all of these may be true, such arguments do not authorize women to be in the pulpit.

The Bible is clear that God commands men to be the leaders in churches.  Elders (pastors, bishops) and deacons must be the husbands of one wife (1 Tim. 3:2, 12).  Preachers (evangelists, ministers) are to be men as well.  The Holy Spirit said, “Let a woman learn in silence with all submission.  And I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence” (1 Tim. 2:11, 12).  Some may not like what this says, but that does not change it nor authorize anyone to ignore it.  Those who allow women in the pulpit, or other positions of authority, violate the will of God.

Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints.
- Jude 3

Fire In My Heart
Edited By Mike Willis