I have some questions that I will like some clarity and biblical position:
Question
The Bible in I cor 14:33-34 says women should learn in silence. Is silence absolute silence?
Answer
First Corinthians 14:34-35 states:
Let your women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says. And if they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is shameful for women to speak in church.
The Greek word translated “keep silent” is “sigao,” which means “say nothing, keep silent” (W.F. Arndt and F.W. Gingrich, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament. 757; cf. Luke 9:36; 18:39; 20:26; Acts 12:17; 15:12-13; 1 Corinthians 14:28,30). Whatever kind of speaking the apostle has in mind, the woman may not do it at all.
Does this mean no woman may utter a word in the public worship assemblies? If so, women cannot sing (Ephesians 5:19), confess their faith (Romans 10:9-10), or confess sin (James 5:16) in church.
The contrast in First Corinthians 14:34 establishes what kind of speaking women are forbidden to do. Opposite to this kind of speaking, “they are to be submissive.” The apostle prohibits women from engaging in the kind of speaking of the context – authoritatively addressing the public worship assembly. By doing this women cast off their role of subjection to man. From the very beginning the principle of feminine submission has been true (verse 34; cf. Genesis 3:16). The lack of subjection demonstrated by the women in Corinth was shameful. The principle is that women must not speak in the assembly in such a way that their subjection to man is violated.
Question
Can a woman ask question in bible class or she has to write her question in note and pass to the teacher as some brethren insist?
Answer
In a Bible class where both men and women are present, she may ask a question or make a comment as long she remains submissive. She should receive permission from the male teacher in charge of the class to speak, and not dominate the class (1 Corinthians 14:34-35; 1 Timothy 2:11-12).
Question
Paul said he suffer not a woman to speak in all churches, does this apply to church business meeting. Can a woman be part of, contribute or make suggestion in Church Business meeting.
Answer
There are to be elders in every church (Acts 14:23; Titus1:5). Of course, there must be men who meet the divine requirements selected and are appointed to this office (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9). Elders are to rule the local church (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:1-4; 1 Timothy 5:17). To rule is to make decisions that those who are ruled are obligated to follow (Exodus 18:21-26; cf. 1 Kings 20:40).
In matters of opinion the elders should learn and consider the needs and opinions of the entire congregation, both men and women (Acts 6:1). How this is done is a matter of opinion. It could be a congregational business meeting. The elders should make decisions for the church (Acts 21:8, 23-24) and should inform the whole church of decisions that affect the whole church (Acts 6:3; 15:19-20).
In matters of faith elders should decide privately what they believe is scriptural in order to have a united eldership (Acts 15:5-6; Galatians 2:2). They should inform the church of their position and the reasons for it and give the entire church opportunity to discuss the issue and to express approval or disapproval (Acts 15:7, 12, 22).
The whole church is to select its own officers (Acts 6:3), and the method is a matter of liberty.
The whole church is to withdraw from impenitent sinners in the public worship assembly (1 Corinthians 5:4-5).
A church may not have men qualified to be elders (1 Timothy 3:2, 11; Titus 1:7). In such a situation men still make decisions for the church (Acts 13:1-3). Women may not rule over (help make decisions for) men in the church (1 Timothy 2:12). The younger should submit to the elder (1 Peter 5:5), but 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 (Acts 6:2-4), and have their approval sought (Acts 6:2-5). This could be in a congregational business meeting or another arrangement.
We must all should strive for unity and peace (Ephesians 4:1-3) and strive to please others and not to cause anyone to stumble (1 Corinthians 10:31-33).
Question
Deut 22:5 talk about women not putting on what men cloth, IS this forbidden women from putting on trouser?
Answer
Deuteronomy 22:5 is part of the Law of Moses and is no more binding on Christians than is the Sabbath (Colossians 2:13-17). However, the apostle Paul commands, “… give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all” (Romans 12:17, English Standard Version). Neither men nor women should ruin their influence for good by the way they dress. Furthermore, women should “adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation” (1 Timothy 2:9, New King James Version). Godly women do not dress in such a way as to tempt good men to lust. They do not call attention to their appearance by being fashion trend setters.
