Author : Keith Sharp
Before answering the question about women in congregational business meetings, we need to understand two simple principles. To make decisions that others are obligated to follow is to rule (cf. Exodus 18:21-26; 1 Kings 20:40). Women may not rule over men in the local church in any way (1 Timothy 2:12).
There are approved New Testament examples of entire congregations – both men and women – assembling to consider questions (Acts 6:1-2; 15:22). Does this contradict the previous principles? Not at all.
Elders, who are men (1 Timothy 3:1-2), are to rule the local church (1 Timothy 5:17). The elders should learn and consider the needs and opinions of the congregation, and this may certainly be done in a meeting of the whole church, both men and women (Acts 6:1). But the elders must make the decisions for the church (Acts 21:18,23-24). The elders should inform the whole church of decisions that affect the whole church, and this, most certainly, may be done in a meeting of the whole congregation, both men and women (Acts 6:3; 15:19-20).
How are decisions to be made in a congregation which has no elders? Men still make decisions for the church (Acts 13:1-3). Women may not rule over (help make decisions for) men (1 Timothy 2:12). The younger should submit to the elder (1 Peter 5:5). No one should seek or be allowed to have preeminence (3 John 9-10). All members of the church (including women) have the rights to have their opinions and needs considered (Acts 6:1), be kept informed of decisions that affect them or the whole congregation (Acts 6:2-4), and have their approval sought (Acts 6:2-5). All should strive for unity and peace (Ephesians 4:-3), and we should all strive to please others and not to cause anyone to stumble (1 Corinthians 10:31-33).
I will suggest an arrangement that harmonizes with these scriptural principles but should not be bound as the only scriptural way. Business may be discussed in a general congregational meeting of all the members. The men may withdraw to a separate area to make decisions, giving deference to the older, more spiritually experienced men. One may be selected as a spokesman to inform all the members of the decisions made.
