2Timothy 2:15 "Study to show yourself approved to God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (ERKJV)
John 6:63 "It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are Spirit, and they are life." (NKJV)
May God Himself bless you on your journey through Faith...in JESUS name!
Does Scripture Endorse Women to be Ordained as Pastors/Bishops/Overseers, Elders, Deacons, or Teachers?
Lets look at a variety of NT witnesses and the instructions they gave to the church.
**Except as noted, Scriptures are from: NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®
Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995
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**Note to Reader: To demonstrate that the scriptures highlighted (& bolded/and/or underlined) below are not taken out of context – some verses above and /or below are included, but by all means compare with “word for word” bible translations such as NASB & KJV.
1 Corinthians 11 (KJV)
[Christian Order]
1 Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ. 2 Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you. 3 But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God. 4 Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonoureth his head. 5 But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven. 6 For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered. 7 For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man. 8 For the man is not of the woman; but the woman of the man. 9 Neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man. 10 For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the angels. 11 Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord. 12 For as the woman is of the man, even so is the man also by the woman; but all things of God. 13 Judge in yourselves: is it comely that a woman pray unto God uncovered? 14 Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him? 15 But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering. 16 But if any man seem to be contentious, we have no such custom, neither the churches of God.
The passage above clearly speaks regarding the divine order of God…headship, and regarding men and women declaring that the man is appointed by God to be head (covering) of women and not the other way around. It uses hair as an example of the custom of Paul's time, but the spiritual covering of the woman is the man or husband, and the covering (or headship) of the man is Christ. It would a shame for a man if he allowed himself to subject to the woman (or his wife) as his spiritual covering - for God's divine order is that he be covered (or be directly under subjection to) by Christ.
1 Corinthians 14
[Instruction for the Church]
26What is the outcome then, brethren? When you assemble, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. 27If anyone speaks in a tongue, it should be by two or at the most three, and each in turn, and one must interpret; 28but if there is no interpreter, he must keep silent in the church; and let him speak to himself and to God. 29Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others pass judgment. 30But if a revelation is made to another who is seated, the first one must keep silent. 31For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all may be exhorted; 32and the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets; 33for God is not a God of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.
34The women are to keep silent in the churches; for they are not permitted to speak, but are to subject themselves, just as the Law also says. 35If they desire to learn anything, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is improper for a woman to speak in church. 36Was it from you that the word of God first went forth? Or has it come to you only? 37If anyone thinks he is a prophet or spiritual, let him recognize that the things which I write to you are the Lord’s commandment. 38But if anyone does not recognize this, he is not recognized.39Therefore, my brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak in tongues. 40 But all things should be done decently and in order. "
1 Timothy 2
[A Call to Prayer]
1First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, 2for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. 3This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, 6who gave Himself as a ransom for all, the testimony given at the proper time. 7For this I was appointed a preacher and an apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying) as a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. 8Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension.
[Women Instructed]
9Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments, 10but rather by means of good works, as is proper for women making a claim to godliness. 11A woman must quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness. 12But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet. 13For it was Adam who was first created, and then Eve. 14And it was not Adam who was deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression. 15But women will be preserved through the bearing of children if they continue in faith and love and sanctity with self-restraint.
1 Timothy 3
[Overseers and Deacons]
1It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. 2An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money. 4He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity 5(but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), 6and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil. 7And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
8Deacons likewise must be men of dignity, not double-tongued, or addicted to much wine or fond of sordid gain, 9but holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10These men must also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach. 11Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things.
[vs. 11: biblehub.com - 16/27 bible versions are translated “wives” or “their wives”]
12Deacons must be husbands of only one wife, and good managers of their children and their own households. 13For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus. 14I am writing these things to you, hoping to come to you before long; 15but in case I am delayed, I write so that you will know how one ought to conduct himself in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and support of the truth.
1 Timothy 1
[Concerning Elders] (note: these elders are “men” ordained as per 1 Timothy 3 instructions)
17The elders who rule well are to be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. 18For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle the ox while he is threshing,” and “The laborer is worthy of his wages.” 19Do not receive an accusation against an elder except on the basis of two or three witnesses. 20Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning. 21I solemnly charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of His chosen angels, to maintain these principles without bias, doing nothing in a spirit of partiality. 22Do not lay hands upon anyone too hastily and thereby share responsibility for the sins of others; keep yourself free from sin.
Titus 1
[Salutation]
1Paul, a bond-servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, for the faith of those chosen of God and the knowledge of the truth which is according to godliness, 2in the hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised long ages ago, 3but at the proper time manifested, even His word, in the proclamation with which I was entrusted according to the commandment of God our Savior,
4To Titus, my true child in a common faith: Grace and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Savior.
[Qualifications of Elders] (again note: these elders are “men” ordained as per 1 Timothy 3 instructions)
5For this reason I left you in Crete, that you would set in order what remains and appoint elders in every city as I directed you, 6namely, if any man is above reproach, the husband of one wife, having children who believe, not accused of dissipation or rebellion. 7For the overseer must be above reproach as God’s steward, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not addicted to wine, not pugnacious, not fond of sordid gain, 8but hospitable, loving what is good, sensible, just, devout, self-controlled, 9holding fast the faithful word which is in accordance with the teaching, so that he will be able both to exhort in sound doctrine and to refute those who contradict.
10For there are many rebellious men, empty talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision, 11who must be silenced because they are upsetting whole families, teaching things they should not teach for the sake of sordid gain. 12One of themselves, a prophet of their own, said, “Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons.” 13This testimony is true. For this reason reprove them severely so that they may be sound in the faith, 14not paying attention to Jewish myths and commandments of men who turn away from the truth. 15To the pure, all things are pure; but to those who are defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure, but both their mind and their conscience are defiled. 16They profess to know God, but by their deeds they deny Him, being detestable and disobedient and worthless for any good deed.
Titus 2
[Qualifications of Elders and Deacons] (Again these elders, deacons are "men"}
1But as for you, speak the things which are fitting for sound doctrine. 2Older men are to be temperate, dignified, sensible, sound in faith, in love, in perseverance.
3Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good, 4so that they may encourage the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, 5to be sensible, pure, workers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be dishonored.
6Likewise urge the young men to be sensible; 7in all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, with purity in doctrine, dignified, 8sound in speech which is beyond reproach, so that the opponent will be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us.
9 Urge bondslaves to be subject to their own masters in everything, to be well-pleasing, not argumentative, 10not pilfering, but showing all good faith so that they will adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in every respect.
11For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, 12instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age, 13looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Christ Jesus, 14who gave Himself for us to redeem us from every lawless deed, and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds.
15These things speak and exhort and reprove with all authority. Let no one disregard you.
Ephesians 5
[Be Imitators of God]
15Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, 16making the most of your time, because the days are evil. 17So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit, 19speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; 20always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father; 21and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.
[Marriage Like Christ and the Church]
22Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 23For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself being the Savior of the body. 24But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives ought to be to their husbands in everything.
25Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her, 26so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word, 27that He might present to Himself the church in all her glory, having no spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that she would be holy and blameless. 28So husbands ought also to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself; 29for no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ also does the church, 30because we are members of His body. 31For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and shall be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. 32This mystery is great; but I am speaking with reference to Christ and the church. 33Nevertheless, each individual among you also is to love his own wife even as himself, and the wife must see to it that she respects her husband.
1 Peter 3
[Godly Living]
1In the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any of them are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives, 2as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior. 3Your adornment must not be merely external—braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; 4but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. 5For in this way in former times the holy women also, who hoped in God, used to adorn themselves, being submissive to their own husbands; 6just as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, and you have become her children if you do what is right without being frightened by any fear.
7You husbands in the same way, live with your wives in an understanding way, as with someone weaker, since she is a woman; and show her honor as a fellow heir of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered.
1 Peter 5
[Serve God Willingly]
1Therefore, I exhort the elders among you, as your fellow elder and witness of the sufferings of Christ, and a partaker also of the glory that is to be revealed, 2shepherd the flock of God among you, exercising oversight not under compulsion, but voluntarily, according to the will of God; and not for sordid gain, but with eagerness; 3nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock. 4And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. 5You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.
2 Peter 3
14Therefore, beloved, since you look for these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, spotless and blameless,
15and regard the patience of our Lord as salvation; just as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given him, wrote to you, 16as also in all his letters, speaking in them of these things, in which are some things hard to understand, which the untaught and unstable distort, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction.
17You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men and fall from your own steadfastness, 18but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.
Revelation 2
[Message to Thyatira]
18 And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass; 19 I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first.
20 Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.
21 And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not.
22 Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds.
23 And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.
24 But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden. 25 But that which ye have already hold fast till I come. 26 And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations:
27 And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to shivers: even as I received of my Father. 28 And I will give him the morning star. 29 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
Isaiah 3
8For Jerusalem has stumbled and Judah has fallen,
Because their speech and their actions are against the LORD,
To rebel against His glorious presence.
9The expression of their faces bears witness against them,
And they display their sin like Sodom;
They do not even conceal it.
Woe to them!
For they have brought evil on themselves.
10Say to the righteous that it will go well with them,
For they will eat the fruit of their actions.
11Woe to the wicked! It will go badly with him,
For what he deserves will be done to him.
12O My people! Their oppressors are children,
And women rule over them.
O My people! Those who guide you lead you astray
And confuse the direction of your paths.
Genesis 3
16To the woman He said,
“I will greatly multiply Your pain in childbirth,
In pain you will bring forth children;
Yet your desire will be for your husband,
And he will rule over you.”
17Then to Adam He said, “Because you have listened to the voice of your wife,
and have eaten from the tree about which I commanded you, saying, ‘You
shall not eat from it’;
Cursed is the ground because of you; In toil you will eat of it
All the days of your life. 18Both thorns and thistles it shall grow for you;
And you will eat the plants of the field;19By the sweat of your face You will eat bread, Till you return to the ground,
Because from it you were taken; For you are dust, And to dust you shall return.”
Does Scripture Endorse Women to be Ordained as Pastors/Bishops/Overseers, Elders, Deacons, or Teachers?
The Scriptures speak for themselves on this issue and until recently [in fact, for nearly 2000 years of church history ] there was no contention over the role of women. In the New Testament, there are clearly spoken directions given to the churches specifically addressing church leadership roles. The instructions are based on God’s divine order for His Church.
Most of the scriptures we will look are found in the NT - because they are the ones specifically addressing the role of Pastors/Elders/Bishops/Overseers, and teachers. The table shows the time frame that these instructions were given by these scripture writers.
Summary:
Key verses/instructions to the Church for Pastors (Bishops/Overseers), Teachers, and/or Deacon Roles.
Notice that whether to Corinth or Ephesus or Timothy or Titus, Paul’s instructions remain consistent. Peter confirms Paul’s teachings are correct, but hard for some to accept, and that some unstable, unlearned people twist them to their own destruction as they also do with other scriptures as they develop “another gospel”.
1 Corinthians 11:3
But I want you to understand that Christ is the head of every man, and the man is the head of a woman, and God is the head of Christ
This is the order God has commanded...the ordinance of God. Women cannot command/lead men in the church or in the home, or they are out of order and “uncovered”.
1 Corinthians 14:34-40
34The women are to keep silent in the churches; for they are not permitted to speak, but are to subject themselves, just as the Law also says. 35If they desire to learn anything, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is improper for a woman to speak in church. 36Was it from you that the word of God first went forth? Or has it come to you only?
37If anyone thinks he is a prophet or spiritual, let him recognize that the things which I write to you are the Lord’s commandment. 38But if anyone does not recognize this, he is not recognized.
39Therefore, my brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak in tongues. 40But all things must be done properly and in an orderly manner.
Paul affirms a woman is out of divine order to usurp authority over a man (the Teacher/Preacher/Pastor/Overseer/Bishop/Deacon/Elder or even her own husband)
1 Timothy 2:12-15
12But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet. 13For it was Adam who was first created, and then Eve. 14And it was not Adam who was deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression. 15But women will be preserved through the bearing of children if they continue in faith and love and sanctity with self-restraint.
Women are not permitted to teach men, nor to exercise authority (headship) over men in the Church, but are to be under subjection (covered). To do otherwise is to be deceived and practice deception by stepping out of God’s order & covering.
Ephesians 5:22-24
22Wives, be subject to your own husbands, as to the Lord.
23For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, He Himself being the Savior of the body. 24But as the church is subject to Christ, so also the wives ought to be to their husbands in everything.
Therefore, wives are to be subject to their (own) husband’s headship/rule/covering, in and out of the home - even as the Church is subject to Christ’s authority/headship.
Titus 1:5-6
5For this reason I left you in Crete, that you would set in order what remains and appoint elders in every city as I directed you, 6namely, if any man is above reproach, the husband of one wife, having children who believe, not accused of dissipation or rebellion.
Paul tasked Titus to appoint men in every city as Church Elders (Leadership): those who had just one wife, and who were men of good reputation, with their children believing and in subjection to their rule. E.g. Those men who had their own houses in order. (The reason he likely asked Titus to do this task was because he knew he himself would be executed by Rome in the near future.)
1 Timothy 3:1-13
Overseers and Deacons
1It is a trustworthy statement: if any man aspires to the office of overseer, it is a fine work he desires to do. 2An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, prudent, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3not addicted to wine or pugnacious, but gentle, peaceable, free from the love of money. 4He must be one who manages his own household well, keeping his children under control with all dignity 5(but if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how will he take care of the church of God?), 6and not a new convert, so that he will not become conceited and fall into the condemnation incurred by the devil. 7And he must have a good reputation with those outside the church, so that he will not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. 8Deacons likewise must be men of dignity, not double-tongued, or addicted to much wine or fond of sordid gain, 9but holding to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. 10These men must also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons if they are beyond reproach. 11Women must likewise be dignified, not malicious gossips, but temperate, faithful in all things.
12Deacons must be husbands of only one wife, and good managers of their children and their own households. 13For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a high standing and great confidence in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.
Paul stated that Overseers (the Pastors, Bishops, Deacons, and Teachers) Offices/Positions were strictly available only to men. They had to be husbands of only one wife (not multiple wives), good managers - heads of their households – who have demonstrated their faithfulness to the gospel – not a novice (recent convert).
A woman cannot be the husband of one wife – (certainly not in Paul’s day).
Isaiah 3:12
O My people! Their oppressors are children,
And women rule over them.
O My people! Those who guide you lead you astray
And confuse the direction of your paths.
Tragically, everything is out of (God’s divine) order in Isaiah Chapter 3. In the OT, it was a shame for a woman to rule over a man, it was unheard of until Israel was backslid – in apostasy.
For Israel to ruled by a woman was the ultimate humiliation to the nation, a testament to their fallen state.
Notable Considerations:
Q: What about Apostles? Can’t women be Apostles?
A: The last biblically recognized Apostle was Paul, chosen by Jesus Himself. While others may call themselves/or be called “Apostles”, they do not meet the criteria set out in Acts Chapter 1.
Acts 1:21-26 21 Therefore it is necessary that of the men who have accompanied us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us— 22 beginning with the baptism of John until the day that He was taken up from us—one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.” 23 So they put forward two men, Joseph called Barsabbas (who was also called Justus), and Matthias. 24 And they prayed and said, “You, Lord, who know the hearts of all men, show which one of these two You have chosen 25 to occupy this ministry and apostleship from which Judas turned aside to go to his own place.” 26 And they drew lots for them, and the lot fell to Matthias; and he was added to the eleven apostles."
Next, and last of all, Jesus called Saul (who is also called Paul - Greek Name) who’s epistles and teaching comprise much of the new testament scriptures. Note that both Luke and Mark were not called “Apostles” although they were certainly extremely active in the “apostolic ministry”. (also see 1 Corinthians 15:3-10, & Chapter 4, 1 Timothy 2:7, Galatians 1:1 & 2:8, Romans 1:1)
Acts 26:14-18
14 And the Lord said, ‘I am Jesus whom you are persecuting. 16 But get up and stand on your feet; for this purpose I have appeared to you, to appoint you a minister and a witness not only to the things which you have seen, but also to the things in which I will appear to you; 17 rescuing you from the Jewish people and from the Gentiles, to whom I am sending you, 18 to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me.’
1 Corinthians 9:1-2
“Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you not my work in the Lord? If to others I am not an apostle, at least I am to you; for you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord.”
Q: There are many in the earth today who call themselves “Apostles”. What do you think about that?
1 Corinthians 4:9-13 [Apostle Paul speaking]
9 For, I think, God has exhibited us apostles last of all, as men condemned to death; because we have become a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men. 10 We are fools for Christ’s sake, but you are prudent in Christ; we are weak, but you are strong; you are distinguished, but we are without honor. 11 To this present hour we are both hungry and thirsty, and are poorly clothed, and are roughly treated, and are homeless; 12 and we toil, working with our own hands; when we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure; 13 when we are slandered, we try to conciliate; we have become as the scum of the world, the dregs of all things, even until now.
So, we can debate the meaning of the word “apostle” but remember that the foundations of the city the New Jerusalem” coming down from God out of Heaven, will display the names of the 12 Apostles of the Lamb.
Revelation 21:14
"And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. "
Next: Part 2- Roles of Women
Roles of Women in the Church
Q: The Greek word “diakonos” translated “servant” or possibly “deaconess” is used of “Phoebe” - who is described as a “servant of the church” in Romans 16:1. Some historians have speculated that The Apostle Paul trusted Phoebe with the task to hand deliver sent his epistle/letter to Rome…known as the book of “Romans” in the New Testament - but there is no clear proof or consensus on that matter. Regardless, does this mean Phoebe held the “office of a Deacon”? Some even have claimed she was an "apostle"?
Romans 16:1-2
“I commend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a servant (GK: diakonos) of the church which is at Cenchrea; 2that you receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and that you help her in whatever matter she may have need of you; for she herself has also been a helper of many, and of myself as well.”
A: There are 10 out of 49 bible versions that have translated “diakonos” to be “deacon” or “deaconess”. Diakonos is a generic word which means to serve or minister and certainly to be a helper. All Christians are to serve or minister, but not all are called nor authorized by scripture and commandment to be Pastors, Evangelists, Teachers, etc.
Most importantly, this does not affect any scriptures that deal with teaching and leadership roles following God’s divine order. It doesn’t change the instruction given regarding appointing men to the Office of Deacon, as stated in 1 Timothy 3:13. Women can certainly be servants of the Church as she served Paul in this circumstance and in other works of faith. She would also have to remain faithful to Church leadership.
Neither Male nor Female in Christ Jesus
Here is the most common argument - a scripture that some use (misuse) to advocate for women to hold any office:
Galatian 3:28 "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus."
So some try to justify their position by saying there are no gender roles anymore when it comes to Christian service. But if we look at this verse either alone or in context - it is not addressing gender roles of church officials nor divine church order. This scripture is addressing "Salvation". Everyone regardless of gender (male, female), race, ethnicity is a candidate for salvation if they exercise faith as stated in verse 24...."so that we may be justified by faith."
Galatians 3:15 "Brethren, I speak in terms of human relations: even though it is only a man’s covenant, yet when it has been ratified, no one sets it aside or adds conditions to it. 16Now the promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. He does not say, “And to seeds,” as referring to many, but rather to one, “And to your seed,” that is, Christ. 17 What I am saying is this: the Law, which came four hundred and thirty years later, does not invalidate a covenant previously ratified by God, so as to nullify the promise. 18For if the inheritance is based on law, it is no longer based on a promise; but God has granted it to Abraham by means of a promise.
19Why the Law then? It was added because of transgressions, having been ordained through angels by the agency of a mediator, until the seed would come to whom the promise had been made. 20Now a mediator is not for one party only; whereas God is only one. 21Is the Law then contrary to the promises of God? May it never be! For if a law had been given which was able to impart life, then righteousness would indeed have been based on law. 22But the Scripture has shut up everyone under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe.
23But before faith came, we were kept in custody under the law, being shut up to the faith which was later to be revealed. 24Therefore the Law has become our tutor to lead us to Christ, so that we may be justified by faith. 25But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. 26For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s descendants, heirs according to promise.
So we are all one by faith in Christ Jesus. One what? One Body of Believers, One Church. Yet as Paul taught in Corinthians, there is a divine order, and the body has many members and each member has a role, and we have already looked at the roles he has addressed as pertaining to Church Office (structure).
Women Roles in Church Government
Qualified women certainly may teach women’s ministries, and children’s ministries, while qualified men may lead as Pastors, Teachers, Bishops, Overseers, Deacons, etc. Women can serve as “helps” up to the point where they are still in obedience to the other scriptures. For example, they may be tasked with helping with the baptisms of women, preparing and serving communion, meal prep & service, music/worship ministry, announcements, and other ministry and/or administrative duties assigned by the church Overseer. Women can testify, witness to the lost, prophesy and use the spiritual gifts and talents that God has given them in many ways. Many women serve in church administration roles, assisting the church leadership with all types of data processing.
Pastors may assign women to do many things that are in alignment with scripture as long as they don’t undermine the pastors, elder’s authority (as Paul clearly stated is not permitted).
Notice that this is within the Church “governance roles”. This is not addressing what a woman may do outside the assembly.
So, if Priscilla (with Aquilla) take someone aside after service and exhort the scriptures and provide greater instruction...as was the case with Apollos – it doesn’t mean Boom!!-Priscilla is now the pastor of the church or Boom!!-Aquilla is now pastor of the church.
It is the same with all the scriptures and stories that speak of women demonstrating their faith & giftings - none of these say "therefore this woman is now the Pastor.”
If the woman has the gift of Prophesy - is a Prophetess, she may prophesy in the order that is set out by the Overseer. The prophetess (female) or prophet (male) cannot interrupt the teaching of God’s word as Paul stated. Everything must be done decently and in order:
1 Corinthians 14:26-38
26 “What is the outcome then, brethren? When you assemble, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification. 27 If anyone speaks in a tongue, it should be by two or at the most three, and each in turn, and one must interpret; 28 but if there is no interpreter, he must keep silent in the church; and let him speak to himself and to God. 29 Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others pass judgment. 30 But if a revelation is made to another who is seated, the first one must keep silent. 31 For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all may be exhorted; 32 and the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets; 33 for God is not a God of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.
34 The women are to keep silent in the churches; for they are not permitted to speak, but are to subject themselves, just as the Law also says. 35 If they desire to learn anything, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is improper for a woman to speak in church. 36 Was it from you that the word of God first went forth? Or has it come to you only?
37 If anyone thinks he is a prophet or spiritual, let him recognize that the things which I write to you are the Lord’s commandment. 38 But if anyone does not recognize this, he is not recognized.
Notice in verse 37 Paul is saying that if someone does not accept (recognize) this teaching, then they are not going to be recognized or accepted as credible in the church!
Jesus Christ is the Bridegroom, and the Church is His Bride. Jesus is the Head of the Church - His Bride - His Body of believers. He rules over the Church by His Word and through His Spirit. To submit to that rule is exactly what it means to be a Christian.
Without dispute, of the five-fold ministry that Jesus gave for the perfecting of the saints/church – one key minister was the Apostle Paul - through whom Jesus gave the Church instructions regarding headship and divine order in God’s Kingdom. We know that the Priests of the OT were only men…and only men selected out from the Levites. The disciples whom Jesus selected were all men, as were any who were called Apostles in the New Testament.
So that is the problem today - people are so far removed from adhering to the biblical teaching - that they heap up teachers for themselves, who will say what they want to hear. They had a similar problem in the OT. Compare these two passages - the first from the OT:
Jeremiah 5:30-31 ESV
"An appalling and horrible thing has happened in the land: the prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests rule at their direction; my people love to have it so, but what will you do when the end comes?"
2 Timothy 4:3 (NIV)
“For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.”
2 Timothy 4:2-4 (ESV)
2“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. 3For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, 4 and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.”
Conclusion: The Scriptures specifically address leadership roles, stating clear directions given to the churches. These instructions are based on God’s divine order for His Church.
Also, we know that although godly women have clearly demonstrated remarkable, scripturally acknowledged, Christian service - using their gifts and exercising faith, for example -
“Mary - conveying Jesus’ message to the disciples that "He is risen and to meet Him in Galilee”,
“Priscilla (with Aquilla) - instructing Apollos, in order to improve his preaching by furthering his understanding of scripture”; or even that of
“Sister Phoebe - assisting the Apostle Paul, perhaps even delivering a letter or Epistle for him” -
However, that none of these actions qualified those (or other) women to be Pastors/Elders/Bishops/Overseers. Neither does performing acts of faith make the Word of God null and void - which has expressly limited these roles to men. None of these or other biblical women were referred to as Pastors/Elders/Bishops/Overseers in the bible!
Therefore, when it comes to verifying church doctrine, we are to be like the Bereans who are celebrated and have been commemorated in the following scripture:
Acts 17:11 (ESV) “Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica; they received the word with all eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.”
For Deep Study:
"Pastor Mike Winger "has dedicated an exceptional amount of time and resources researching the subject of Women Pastors/Apostles. Here is a link to his immense volume of study and findings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvLqRpGCayA
"Missionary Spencer Smith" has produced a series of documentaries called The Third Adam , and in particular Third Adam 3 “the Rise of The Divine Feminine” = the third type of Adam - taking the place of men and Christ) usurping God's order, operating under a spirit of error - a false divinity akin to Jezebel spirit to deceive the body of Christ). Definitely worth watching his series exposing this and other attacks on the Church.
ALL 6 Documentaries: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsT0JkFgUrY74H2VY5Cjq4fNdkmQv5jiT
Third Adam 3: Rise of The Divine Feminine
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_f8fotz5GUo&list=PLsT0JkFgUrY74H2VY5Cjq4fNdkmQv5jiT&index=4