The Role of Women in the Church

Session 6 Preparation Questions - Paul, the Created Order and the Role of Women in the Church (Part 2)

Read I Corinthians 11:2 – 16 (concentrate on verses 7 – 12). In this session we will explore Paul’s use of the narrative in Genesis 2 and 3 to back his argument for propriety during the public assembly of the church. We will later return to Paul’s specific injunctions regarding propriety during the public assembly.

1. Do you believe Paul is writing of “husbands and wives” or “men and women” in I Corinthians 11?
2. Do you believe Paul is addressing a specific heresy in this passage?
3. What is meant by the term “glory” in I Corinthians 11:7?
4. To what do you think Paul is referring when he expresses concern about head coverings? Shaving one’s head? Wearing a veil (as in Arab countries today)? Wearing a shawl over the head?
5. Was it usual for Jewish men to worship with their heads uncovered during this period? Is it unusual for orthodox Jews to worship with their heads uncovered today?
6. What is meant by a “sign of authority” in I Corinthians 11:10?
7. What is the meaning of I Corinthians 11:11, 12 in the context of this passage? Is Paul qualifying his injunction?
8. What does it mean “and because of the angels” in I Corinthians 11:10?