What does the Bible say about women pastors?

 What does the Bible say about women pastors?

There is perhaps no more hotly debated issue in the church today than that of women serving as pastors. As a result, it is important to not see this issue as men versus women. There are women who believe women should not serve as pastors and that the Bible places restrictions on the ministry of women, and there are men who believe women can serve as pastors and that there are no restrictions on women in ministry. This is not a matter of chauvinism or discrimination. It is an issue of biblical interpretation

The Word of God proclaims, “A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent” (1 Timothy 2:11–12). In the church, God assigns different roles to men and women. This is a result of the way mankind was created and the way in which sin entered the world (1 Timothy 2:13–14). God, through the apostle Paul, restricts women from serving in roles of teaching and/or having spiritual authority over men. This precludes women from serving as pastors over men, since pastoring definitely includes preaching, teaching publicly, and exercising spiritual authority.

There are many objections to this view of women in pastoral ministry. A common one is that Paul restricts women from teaching because in the first century, women were typically uneducated. However, 1 Timothy 2:11–14 nowhere mentions educational status. If education were a qualification for ministry, then the majority of Jesus’ disciples would not have been qualified. A second common objection is that Paul only restricted the women of Ephesus from teaching men (1 Timothy was written to Timothy, the pastor of the church in Ephesus). Ephesus was known for its temple to Artemis, and women were the authorities in that branch of paganism—therefore, the theory goes, Paul was only reacting against the female-led customs of the Ephesian idolaters, and the church needed to be different. However, the book of 1 Timothy nowhere mentions Artemis, nor does Paul mention the standard practice of Artemis worshipers as a reason for the restrictions in 1 Timothy 2:11–12.

A third objection is that Paul is only referring to husbands and wives, not men and women in general. The Greek words for “woman” and “man” in 1 Timothy 2 could refer to husbands and wives; however, the basic meaning of the words is broader than that. Further, the same Greek words are used in verses 8–10. Are only husbands to lift up holy hands in prayer without anger and disputing (verse 8)? Are only wives to dress modestly, have good deeds, and worship God (verses 9–10)? Of course not. Verses 8–10 clearly refer to all men and women, not just husbands and wives. There is nothing in the context that would indicate a narrowing to husbands and wives in verses 11–14.

Yet another objection to this interpretation of women in pastoral ministry references women in positions of leadership in the Bible, specifically Miriam, Deborah, and Huldah in the Old Testament. It is true that these women were chosen by God for special service to Him and that they stand as models of faith, courage, and, yes, leadership. However, the authority of women in the Old Testament is not relevant to the issue of pastors in the church. The New Testament Epistles present a new paradigm for God’s people—the church, the body of Christ—and that paradigm involves an authority structure unique to the church, not for the nation of Israel or any other Old Testament entity.

Similar arguments are made using Priscilla and Phoebe in the New Testament. In Acts 18, Priscilla and Aquila are presented as faithful ministers for Christ. In verse 18, Priscilla’s name is mentioned first, suggesting to some that she was more prominent in ministry than her husband. (The detail of whose name comes first is probably inconsequential, because in verses 2 and 26 the order is reversed from that of verse 18.) Did Priscilla and her husband teach the gospel of Jesus Christ to Apollos? Yes, in their home they “explained to him the way of God more adequately” (Acts 18:26). Does the Bible ever say that Priscilla pastored a church or taught publicly or became the spiritual leader of a congregation of saints? No. As far as we know, Priscilla was not involved in ministry activity in contradiction to 1 Timothy 2:11–14.

In Romans 16:1, Phoebe is called a “deacon” (or “servant”) in the church and is highly commended by Paul. But, as with Priscilla, there is nothing in Scripture to indicate that Phoebe was a pastor or a teacher of men in the church. “Able to teach” is given as a qualification for elders, but not for deacons (1 Timothy 3:1–13; Titus 1:6–9).

The structure of 1 Timothy 2:11–14 makes the reason why women cannot be pastors perfectly clear. Verse 13 begins with “for,” giving the “cause” of Paul’s statement in verses 11–12. Why should women not teach or have authority over men? Because “Adam was created first, then Eve. And Adam was not the one deceived; it was the woman who was deceived” (verses 13–14). God created Adam first and then created Eve to be a “helper” for Adam. The order of creation has universal application in the family (Ephesians 5:22–33) and in the church.

The fact that Eve was deceived is also given as a reason for women not serving as pastors or having spiritual authority over men (1 Timothy 2:14). This does not mean that women are gullible or that they are all more easily deceived than men. If all women are more easily deceived, why would they be allowed to teach children (who are easily deceived) and other women (who are supposedly more easily deceived)? The text simply says that women are not to teach men or have spiritual authority over men because Eve was deceived. God has chosen to give men the primary teaching authority in the church.

Many women excel in gifts of hospitality, mercy, teaching, evangelism, and helping/serving. Much of the ministry of the local church depends on women. Women in the church are not restricted from public praying or prophesying (1 Corinthians 11:5), only from having spiritual teaching authority over men. The Bible nowhere restricts women from exercising the gifts of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12). Women, just as much as men, are called to minister to others, to demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23), and to proclaim the gospel to the lost (Matthew 28:18–20; Acts 1:8; 1 Peter 3:15).

God has ordained that only men are to serve in positions of spiritual teaching authority in the church. This does not imply men are better teachers or that women are inferior or less intelligent. It is simply the way God designed the church to function. Men are to set the example in spiritual leadership—in their lives and through their words. Women are also to set an example in their lives, but in a different way (1 Peter 3:1-6). Women are encouraged to teach other women (Titus 2:3–5). The Bible also does not restrict women from teaching children. The only activity women are restricted from is teaching or having spiritual authority over men. This bars women from serving as pastors to men. This does not make women less important, by any means; rather, it gives them a ministry focus more in agreement with God’s design.

Bible view about pointing fingers at others

In the Bible, "pointing fingers" at others, especially in judgment or accusation, is generally discouraged and sometimes condemned. While there's no specific prohibition against all finger gestures, the focus is on avoiding condemnation, gossip, and malicious speech towards others. Instead, the Bible emphasizes humility, forgiveness, and addressing concerns privately with a loving attitude. 

Elaboration:

Discouraged Judgment:

The Bible, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 7:1-5), teaches against judging others, as it highlights the importance of self-reflection and recognizing one's own flaws before criticizing others. The saying "Judge not, that you be not judged" encapsulates this idea. 

Consequences of Finger-Pointing:

The Bible, in Isaiah 58:9, associates the "pointing of the finger" with wicked speech and oppression. It suggests that such behavior can hinder prayer and prevent blessings. 

Focus on Love and Reconciliation:

Instead of pointing fingers, the Bible encourages believers to address concerns privately with a brother or sister (Matthew 18:15-18). This approach emphasizes reconciliation and restoration rather than condemnation. 

Humility and Forgiveness:

The emphasis is on humility, recognizing that everyone is prone to error and sin. Forgiveness and extending grace to others are central to Christian teachings.

Avoiding Hypocrisy:

Jesus criticized those who point out the "speck" in their brother's eye while ignoring the "log" in their own (Matthew 7:3-5). This highlights the importance of self-awareness and avoiding hypocrisy in our interactions with others. 

Alternative Actions:

The Bible suggests focusing on actions that build up and encourage others, such as sharing meals, offering support, and demonstrating love. It also emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and accountability before God (Romans 14:12).

An example of Faith

 As an example of someone who prayed “the prayer of faith,” James referred to Elijah. By his prayer, Elijah withheld all rain for three and a half years, and then caused rain to fall again. (See James 5:17–18.) 

Scripture indicates that the giving and withholding of rain is a divine prerogative, exercised by God Himself. (See, for example, Deuteronomy 11:13–17 and Jeremiah 5:24; 14:22.) Yet, for three and a half years, Elijah exercised this prerogative on God’s behalf. 

James emphasized that Elijah was “a man with a nature like ours” (James 5:17)—a human being just like the rest of us. But as long as he was enabled to pray with God’s faith, the words he uttered were as effective as God’s own decrees.

However, faith of this kind does not need to operate through a spoken word only. It was by this same kind of supernatural faith that Jesus was able to walk on the stormy Sea of Galilee. (See Matthew 14:25–33.) 

In this case, He did not need to speak; He merely walked out onto the water. Peter began to follow the example of Jesus and to exercise the same kind of faith. This enabled him to do precisely the same thing that Jesus was doing.

But when he looked away from Jesus to the waves, his faith deserted him, and he began to sink! 

The comment that Jesus made is very illuminating: “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:31). Jesus did not reprove Peter for wanting to walk on the water. He reproved him for losing faith in the middle of doing so.

Two natures in men

 The concept of "two natures in men" in the Bible, particularly related to believers, refers to the idea that individuals have a natural, fallen nature inherited from Adam and a new, spiritual nature given through faith in Christ. The old, natural nature is associated with sin and weakness, while the new nature, empowered by the Holy Spirit, enables believers to live a life pleasing to God. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

The Old Nature (Fallen Nature):

This is the nature inherited from Adam's fall, characterized by sin and a tendency towards self-centeredness. It's also referred to as the "flesh" or "old man" in some contexts according to the Bible. 

The New Nature (Spiritual Nature):

This is the new life given to believers through faith in Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. It's associated with righteousness, holiness, and a desire to live in accordance with God's will. 

 The Conflict:

The two natures often exist in tension within a believer, leading to a struggle between the desires of the flesh and the desires of the Spirit according.

Overcoming the Old Nature:

Believers are called to "crucify the flesh" or "walk by the Spirit," which involves actively choosing to live according to the new nature and seeking the guidance and power of the Holy Spirit. 

The Ultimate Hope:

The ultimate hope for believers is that the old, fallen nature will be completely eradicated in the resurrection, when they receive a new, glorified body according to doctrine.org. 

This understanding of the "two natures" is not a simple dualism (where body and soul are seen as separate and opposed), but rather a concept that emphasizes the believer's ongoing struggle toward spiritual growth and transformation according to Ligonier Ministries. It highlights the power of the Holy Spirit to renew and transform the believer, enabling them to live a life of holiness and righteousness.

TRUST IN THE LORD, NOT IN SELF

 (2 Corinthians 1:9). 

This dramatic statement by the Holy Spirit through the apostle Paul has given me a much needed explanation of my life’s journey and the strength to continue it with hope and spiritual vigor. Not trusting in ourselves is a major hurdle that we all must face and overcome. Generally, we face our hurdles without recognizing that they are not our real problem. Often, we look at difficulties as the devil coming against us; therefore, we pray and pray believing that the Lord will remove our impediments without realizing that they are designed to destroy self-trust. 

Trusting in ourselves is our real hurdle. 

Self-trust is a weapon that the enemy often uses to defeat us. Paul says that the sentence of death in ourselves is God-ordained; that we should not trust in ourselves, but in the ever-present, all knowing, and all powerful God.  

The scriptures say, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes” (Proverbs 3: 5-7). 

These scriptures tell us how to be victorious in all situations and circumstances. We are to trust the Lord with all our heart and not be wise in our own eyes! We must not lean on our own understanding or trust in our natural wisdom because our understanding and wisdom are inadequate and limited. Jesus is the Wisdom of God. Let’s practice leaning on and acknowledging Him in everything we do. This is His road to success. The promise is that He will direct our paths. 

We are designed by God to live in total dependence upon Him. It was Adam’s independence that caused our problems.

 Disobedience says, “I’m my own person.” It is an expression of self-trust and not trust in the Lord. Trusting in the Lord means obeying Him and depending on Him even when you don’t understand. 

Let us thank the Lord in all our trials because He is bringing us to the end of ourselves. When we no longer have self to depend on, we will have learned to depend upon and trust Jesus, our Lord.

Our works can not save us

No, your works cannot save you; salvation is a gift from God through faith in Jesus Christ, not earned through good deeds. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

Salvation is a gift, not a reward:

The Bible teaches that salvation is a free gift from God, received through faith, not something earned through good works. 

Ephesians 2:8-9:

This passage clearly states, "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—not by works—so that no one can boast". 

Good works are a result of salvation, not a means to it:

While good works are important and expected from believers, they are a natural outcome of having a transformed heart through faith, not the basis for earning salvation. 

Focus on faith in Jesus:

The focus should be on trusting in Jesus Christ and his sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins, not on trying to earn salvation through your own actions. 

James 2:14:

This verse highlights that faith without works is dead, meaning that genuine faith will naturally lead to good works, but good works alone are insufficient for salvation. 

Philippians 2:12:

This verse instructs believers to "work out your salvation with fear and trembling," which is understood as living a life that reflects your faith, not as a means of earning salvation

Faith but not blind faith

 The Bible encourages faith, but not blind or unquestioning faith. It values seeking understanding and discerning truth, as seen in passages like 1 Thessalonians 5:21, which urges believers to "test everything, hold on to what is good". 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

Faith as Trust, Not Blind Acceptance:

The Bible emphasizes faith as trust in God based on His character and promises, not simply accepting something without question. 

Seeking Understanding:

The Bible encourages believers to seek knowledge and understanding of God's Word and ways. 

Testing and Discernment:

Passages like 1 Thessalonians 5:21 and 1 John 4:1 encourage believers to "test everything" and to discern between truth and falsehood. 

Examples in the Bible:

Thomas's Doubt: The story of Thomas, who initially doubted Jesus' resurrection, highlights the importance of seeking evidence and not blindly accepting everything. 

Paul's Defense: Paul, in 1 Peter 3:15, encourages believers to be prepared to defend their faith and explain the hope they have in Christ. 

Passages to Consider:

1 Thessalonians 5:21: "Test everything; hold on to what is good." 

1 John 4:1: "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world." 

Proverbs 3:13: "Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding, for it is better to seek wisdom than to seek silver, and to get understanding rather than gold."