Back in order, yes, Week 31, which has now come to an end; we’ve just closed out July too. How time flies, right? Anyway, I don’t know about you, but I’m excited to see what’s next, and most of all, I’m grateful for God’s guidance, kindness and love. I’m choosing to trust Him with the rest of 2025 and beyond 🙌
For this week, I’ve decided to share a couple of bible verses, that have challenged me over the past few weeks, as we read through 1st & 2nd Corinthians:
1 Corinthians 14:34-35 NIV
[34] Women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the law says. [35] If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church.
This is a tough passage, in this day and age, especially when critics use it to argue that the Bible and Christianity oppress women. I’ve wrestled with these verses too, to be honest. But I’m coming to realise that if Scripture doesn’t challenge me, my faith may be too surface-level – like seeds that sprout quickly but wither in the heat (Matthew 13 The Parable of the Sower).
When reading challenging verses like 1 Corinthians 14:34-35, it’s essential to consider the historical context – Paul was writing to a specific culture where men held authority. Hence consistent prayer and Bible reading are vital for deepening our faith and helping us to dig deeper for better understanding.
Truth be told, like many, I also struggle to maintain a consistent prayer and Bible reading routine. Despite the inconsistency, I’ve been prioritising it more, and it’s helping. I’m more resilient when facing challenging verses – they still test me, but they don’t catch me off guard like they used to.
Back to the passage, as I wrestled with understanding the message, yet again, I had a lightbulb moment 💡 although I’m pretty sure it was the Holy Spirit putting the thought in my head – Jesus’ words to Martha and Mary in Luke 10:41-42 came into my mind. His words remind us to prioritise what truly matters: seeking Jesus more in all that we do or say ❤️.
Let’s focus on following Jesus’ example, seeking God’s wisdom, and nurturing our relationship with Him, rather than getting entangled in worldly debates.
Talk about perfect timing, and it was almost as if the universe knew I needed this – a Crossway devotional landed in my inbox two days ago, on another subject. Further reading led me to a thought-provoking article by Denny Burk titled “What Does it Mean That Women Should ‘Remain Quiet’ in Church? (1 Timothy 2)”.
This article sheds light on many concepts I’ve struggled to articulate. I’m sure there’s a wealth of resources – devotionals, sermons, and studies – exploring the topic of women in the church from various perspectives. I encourage you to dive deeper and explore.
Here is the passage that the article is based on!
1 Timothy 2:8-15 NIV
[8] Therefore I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing. [9] I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, [10] but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God. [11] A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. [12] I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet. [13] For Adam was formed first, then Eve. [14] And Adam was not the one deceived; it was the woman who was deceived and became a sinner. [15] But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety.
I’ve taken screenshots of the article for the sake of those who may not have access to the internet to research more. Please read with an open mind and heart, and let the spirit of God guide you 🙏
A thought-provoking article indeed, and I appreciated the writer’s balanced approach, exploring multiple perspectives. The discussion on leadership in marriage and the church resonated with me, highlighting the complementary roles of husband and wife as ordained by God from the very beginning of time – the divine order 🙌.
In conclusion, I’d like to honour my late mother, a remarkable leader in her own right and yet remained a devoted pastor’s wife. Her daily devotion was non-negotiable, and I’m beginning to see it was the source of her strength and wisdom. I’m grateful to have had her as a role model – a strong Christian woman who exemplified humility, faith, and resilience.
To God be the glory always 🙏
Idau Hahine 