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Unmarried men pastors? |
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1 Timothy
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Perhaps I'm misinterpreting, but it seems to me that the Bible recommends that church leaders be married men with one wife. The Catholic denomination permits unmarried men to be leaders, and other denominations permit women to become leaders. Are they in harmony with the Bible's teachings? |
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Unmarried men pastors? |
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1 Timothy
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Dear Dud M3, Welcome! I tend to agree with you that the Bible seems to be recommending ministers to be men with one (present?) wife. I am aware of other traditions and interpretations, but not only does this seem to be the Biblical pattern, but it makes a lot of common sense as well. One issue is the spiritual authority of a man in his own home. Another issue is that unmarried ministers, men or women have a serious, real handicap when dealing with the complications of shepherding the flock, the majority of whom will be married with children. Even married, if you are very young and without children, it makes it difficult to be taken seriously by those who are in need of counsel and spiritual help. A great deal of experience is gained by being responsible for a family of your own that will apply to your spiritual family. By saying these things, I am not trying to discount anyone from service to God, just simply stating a few practical realities. I have met Catholic priests, who last I heard, cannot be married, and though nice fellows and well-trained, I saw obvious gaps in their ability to serve God's people. (I am certain that they may have a different opinion) I have also met many women pastors and leaders, some married and some not. Overall, there seemed to be an unbalance. I don't think I could say anything further that would not be teribly misconstrued, so 'nuff said. (Again, I am certain that they might hold a different opinion!!) In my church, we have women deacons (deaconesses?), and there seems to be a real area of spiritual ministry available to them (not just menial). Again, without getting into trouble, I will just say, "It works." In my opinion, Bible teaching is the literal word, without being Pharisaical, plus a healthy dose of common sense. I am pretty certain that God is sensible. It seems that most departure from the 'married men' norm has been political, financial, and-or emotional; anything but Biblical and practical. Blessings in Jesus' name! |
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Unmarried men pastors? |
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1 Timothy
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Dear Dud M3, Welcome! I tend to agree with you that the Bible seems to be recommending ministers to be men with one (present?) wife. I am aware of other traditions and interpretations, but not only does this seem to be the Biblical pattern, but it makes a lot of common sense as well. One issue is the spiritual authority of a man in his own home. Another issue is that unmarried ministers, men or women have a serious, real handicap when dealing with the complications of shepherding the flock, the majority of whom will be married with children. Even married, if you are very young and without children, it makes it difficult to be taken seriously by those who are in need of counsel and spiritual help. A great deal of experience is gained by being responsible for a family of your own that will apply to your spiritual family. By saying these things, I am not trying to discount anyone from service to God, just simply stating a few practical realities. I have met Catholic priests, who last I heard, cannot be married, and though nice fellows and well-trained, I saw obvious gaps in their ability to serve God's people. (I am certain that they may have a different opinion) I have also met many women pastors and leaders, some married and some not. Overall, there seemed to be an unbalance. I don't think I could say anything further that would not be teribly misconstrued, so 'nuff said. (Again, I am certain that they might hold a different opinion!!) In my church, we have women deacons (deaconesses?), and there seems to be a real area of spiritual ministry available to them (not just menial). Again, without getting into trouble, I will just say, "It works." In my opinion, Bible teaching is the literal word, without being Pharisaical, plus a healthy dose of common sense. I am pretty certain that God is sensible. It seems that most departure from the 'married men' norm has been political, financial, and-or emotional; anything but Biblical and practical. Blessings in Jesus' name! |
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Unmarried men pastors? |
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1 Timothy
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Good question. In my opinion, a spiritual leader should not be married. Especially a priest, reverend, or a pastor. In the Catholic church, a church leader cannot be married. After all, Jesus Christ did not marry and he is a perfect example of a church leader. For biblical reasons see Matthew 19:12 and also 1 CO 7:7, 7:32-35. I hope this answers your question. |
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Ideal, but prerequisite? |
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1 Timothy
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Dear JMR, I detect a strong polarization in the answers to the above question. I agree that the scriptures in Matthew and I Corinthians present a strong argument for unmarried leaders. However, I see them as ideals, and possibly advice to 'those who are able,' not 'guidelines for ministry' or the 'rules of clergy.' Other scriptures clearly talk of ministers being husbands of one wife. What do you think of my above comments about the difference between the study of marriage and family and the experience? Forbidding marriage and requiring abstinence also has its dangers. How do you justify the lack of options? It seems the Bible gave ministers the option of choosing their course. Understand that I mean no disrespect. The theory of 'marriage to the church' is honorable and Biblical, but not prerequisite to service to God. Finally, it is true that Jesus did not marry, and He IS the ultimate ideal. But the Lord was without sin, above temptation, and had perfect knowledge, wisdom and insight. Though His Spirit works in us, we do not have 'command' over these things as He did. Using the example of Christ is invalid in this instance. I look forward to hearing your comments. Blessings in Christ Jesus. |
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Unmarried men pastors? |
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1 Timothy
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yes it is saying that married leaders are better and i agree with the bible, Pastors need the marriage to co-relate to a family. pray tell? how can a single person counsel with marriage problems or a child do the same. we are made to have a partner. we all have different views including ones on forgiveness with adultry. it is the one that have not been called to be eunechs and still operate from the flesh and not the
spiritare the ones we have trouble with but that is Gods problem not ours.so being married has its benifits as Timothy saw, that the married have less chance of straying in that they should be proven first. |
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Ideal, but prerequisite? |
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1 Timothy
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It is written: "But the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons, by means of the hypocrisy of liars seared in their own conscience as with a branding iron, men who forbid marriage..." 1 Tim 3:1-4 NASB |
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Should Christians Vote in elections? |
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1 Timothy
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Should Christians vote for their leaders? (Scriptural documentation, please.) |
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Should Christians Vote in elections? |
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1 Timothy
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1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
1 Tim 2:1-3 (KJV)
it doesnt say vote for but I think that it is implied,that we may be governed by Christian men that we may live in peace.love in Christ RCScroll,
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Is it a sin not to vote in elections? |
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1 Timothy
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Let me get more specific, I have heard preachers and pastors say that it is a sin not to vote in public elections. Surely, we can not claim sinfulness to an implication in a series of verses. (I Tim 2:1-3) I'd like more opinions on whether christians should vote in elections, and whether it is a sin not to vote? (Scripture, please) |
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Unmarried men pastors? |
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1 Timothy
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Wow, this question got some interesting and enthusiastic responses! Good question, remember the great apostle Paul was not married, so there is certainly no restriction on unmarried men being pastors. A previous answer used our Lord Jesus as an example, but that, in my view, is inappropriate, we are His children for Him to marry one of us would be unusual. Also, He will have a bride (the church) and He came to redeem her (kinsman redeemer; see Ruth), so one could say that our Lords future bride was the motivating force behind His leading.
Women seem to be restricted from such service according to I Tim 2:9-15, but there are differing opinions on the interpretation of those verses. I believe Paul encourages any male leader with a need, to get married (I Tim, Titus), thereby, avoiding temptation. But, Paul also states that he wishes all men/women were as he is, or single, to focus completely on the Lord. (I Cor 7:7) I do see a problem with the catholic practice of unmarried priest, Paul states clearly that if a person has a desire for sexual relations s/he should get married "rather than burn!" with sin (I Cor 7:9) When these men burn with passion and yet cannot get married it could cause all sorts of sexual problems with the priesthood.
Which raises another question, why is it that we are asked to "overcome" all sins of the flesh, with the exception of sexual lust? If we have this desire we should satisfy it in a Biblical manner (marriage; one woman), but still it is treated differently than other lusts of the flesh!
Great question! Let me know any other thoughts! GOD bless!! |
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Is it a sin not to vote in elections? |
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1 Timothy
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And he saith unto them, Whose is this image and superscription?
They say unto him, Caesar's. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's.Matt 22:20-21 (KJV)
I dont know that God would consider it a sin ,all I know is that we are supposed to effect and help the world in reconizing the Lord. Since in these days men are voted in , I think we can have an influence . Such as when men such as hitler took over, people made a right judgement and finished the war. In china some Christians are martered even today how ever we pray for a change and sometimes our very vote may count as to end such tierany. Men have allways chosen kings sometimes by blood line sometimes by lot as in acts
And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.Acts 1:26 (KJV)
I myself wish that I could vote but Im a canadian here in Cali, and I think that we can even evidently see what the Christian vote didnt do when clinton was in office.And also what it might do now that we have a Christian man in there. love in Christ RCScroll
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Is it a sin not to vote in elections? |
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1 Timothy
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Reading on this topic reminds me of the verse in Romans 14:23b ...and everything that does not come from faith is sin. I believe that God is interested in your heart attitude in whatever you do. In the case for voting....that is being a good citizen and steward of the land the Lord has given us. It infuences our lives...I believe we should but I am not compelled to vote just because it is a command but also because of my heart response. Blessings....Hugger |
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Is it a sin not to vote in elections? |
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1 Timothy
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Just off the top of my head, I can't think of a single verse of Scripture that either commands or prohibits voting by Christians. I can't see voting or not voting as any sort of moral issue. For lack of a clear verse of Scripture to the contrary, my understanding is that one believer ought not to condemn another for either voting or not voting. As far as Christians in general, some make a sound argument in favor of voting because it's your duty in a democracy. Others, equally sincere, point out that Jesus said his kingdom was no part of this world and that his disciples were no part of this world. I personally follow the policy of the little old lady in Maine who was quoted as saying, regarding the candidates, "Oh, I never vote. It only encourages them." |
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Unmarried men pastors? |
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1 Timothy
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I have actually been studying this passage. It is actually somewhat disturbing that there are so many strange "interpretations." St. John Chrysostom and John Calvin both said the primary meaning was to forbid polygamy. Protestants have pretty much stuck to that interpretation. About 100 years ago we start to see a new interpretation in the Baptist ranks that this passage literally teaches someone who has been widowed or divorced is excluded.... sort of an unforgivable sin situation. This view has been promoted by Dallas Theo. Seminary and some of their intellectual satellites. Some of the best treatments of this passage are by recent commentators. They seem to see get a broader understanding than Calvin etc. yet still affirm it is a prohibition against polygamy. They also don't seem to have the problems with eisegesis that afflicted JFB, and Chuck Swindoll. I recommend George W. Knight III [NIGTC) and John MacArthur, and also Lenski's treatment is good.
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Bible Commentary? |
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1 Timothy
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I would like some opinions as to what the best and, if possible, easiest to understand Bible commentary is. Thanks |
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Bible Commentary? |
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1 Timothy
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There are many individual commentaries on each book of the Bible-then there are one volume Bible Commentaries-so what are you looking for? Also one usually wants a commentary that does not conflict with ones theological tradition.
Maybe what you need is not a one volume commentary but a good study Bible?
For what is worth I recommend these books for basic Bible study---
1.Evangelical Commentary on the Blbie [published by Baker] Editor Walter A.Elwell/this is easy to read and evangelical.
2. Baker Encyclopedia of the Bible-two volumes Edited by Walter A. Elwell published by Baker Book House
3. Evangelical Dictionary of Theology Editor Walter A. Elwell
4. Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology Edited by Walter A. Elwell
5. Topical Analysis Of The Bible Editor Walter A. Elwell
6. a good concordance
like Young's or Strong's
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Bible Commentary? |
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1 Timothy
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Dear JonnyRay: I wholeheartedly agree with you when you recommend ANY title by Walter Elwell. He's at the very top of the list of authors/editors of Bible reference books. I have his Topical Analysis of the Bible and his Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology. I wouldn't be without them. Both of them are invaluable and incomparable. You show very good taste, knowledge and judgment when you recommend Walter Elwell. Thanks for a helpful, informative comment on the subject. --JVH0212 |
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Bible Commentary? |
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1 Timothy
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From my limited experience with commentaries, I would have to say that perhaps the most reliable, practical and easily understood commentary is the multi-volume one written by J. Vernon McGee. McGee preached to and wrote for the understanding of the average person. He states great doctrinal truths in easily understood language.
For myself I plan to buy the entire series of commentaries authored by John MacArthur, purchasing one volume at a time. |
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Bible Commentary? |
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1 Timothy
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I also recommend these books for Bible study.
Dictionary of Jesus And The Gospels.A Compendium Of Contemporary Biblical Scholarship Editors Joel B. Green, Scot McKnight, I. Howard Marshall
published by IVP in this same series buy the following Dictionary Of Paul And His Letters Dictionary Of New Testament Background and Dictionary Of The Later New Testament and Its Development all published by IVP Dictionary Of New Testament Theology Three Volumes Editor Collin Brown,New International Dictionary of Old Testament Theology and Exegesis Five Volumes General Editor Willem A. VanGemeren,Dictionary of Biblical Imagery General Editors Ryken, Wilhoit and Longman III and Dictionary of Biblical Interpretation General Editor John H. Hayes, liberal but interesting |
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Bible Commentary? |
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1 Timothy
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Dear JonnyRay: Thanks for the recommendations. Have you read "The History of the Bible in English" by F.F. Bruce? (That may not be the exact title, but it's close. That's the subject, anyway.) It may sound dry, but, in fact, is not. Instead it's a great read. Excellent book and very enjoyable to read. Author is *extremely* knowledgeable and articulate. --JVH0212 |
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Qualification for elder/deacon question |
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1 Timothy
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Husband of one wife - Only one in a lifetime or only one at a time? |
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Qualification for elder/deacon question |
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1 Timothy
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Likesemail, there are several views
1- Only one wife in a lifetime, even if she dies
2- Can have another wife, only if she dies
3- Only one at a time, divorce is okay, even if she is Christian
4- If she wasn't a Christian and she left you, it is okay to remarry
5- They have to be married - no singles allowed
... there are several other possibilities, and they probably are already posted - search for elder ot 1Ti 3:2, Tit 1:6. Some get upset if the question has been asked/ answered.
... then the question is do they need to have children(1Ti 3:4).
Steve
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Women teaching or in authority |
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1 Timothy
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Any one able to shed some light on this verse.
1Ti 2:12 Moreover, I do not allow a woman to teach or to have authority over a man. Instead, she is to be quiet.
1Ti 2:13 For Adam was formed first, then Eve.
1Ti 2:14 And it was not Adam who was deceived. It was the woman who was deceived and became a lawbreaker.
Many Thanks. Brad |
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Women teaching or in authority |
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1 Timothy
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Use Search Box ................................
Dear Brad,
If you will type in "women authority" in the search box (upper right corner), you'll find many posts that already cover this subject. |
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Women teaching or in authority |
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1 Timothy
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Hi Brad, I disagree on what it says in Verse 14, the reason is first Eve was formed to be a help for Adam. Adam was to be the dresser of the garden. When Eve partook of the deception, where was Adam. Adam was responsible for the garden and for her, and he didn't try to stop her, but took of it and ate also. Eve wasn't the only one punished. It's like you and I go out and vandalise a home, just an example, but at first you didn't want to be involved, but changed your mind and decided to do the same. Is it right that only I get punished. No, we both did it and should both be punished. In verse 1 Timothy 2:12 "I do not allow a woman to teach, this is not saying that Jesus said it. this is Timothy talking about what he wants. Take off these flesh bodies and what do you have. No difference. It has nothing to do with our fleshly sexual origin, this what I believe. God will use whatever and whomever he chooses to teach and speak for him, a rock, a ass, a woman or man. In Acts 10:34, God is no respecter of person's. and in Number 22:21-34, The angel of the Lord used a ass to speak to Balaam. just my belief and interpretation considering there are other scriptures about Jesus, when the men brought Mary magdeline to him because they said whe was a adulteress and caught in the very act. To stone her, and Jesus says, he who is without sin cast the first stone. If Jesus felt she was worth something then so should we. Serenetime for real. |
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Women teaching or in authority |
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1 Timothy
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Greetings Serenetine!
There are differing views about what exactly was meant by the commands in 1 Tim. 3:12-14. Some feel that they are blanket commands - that woman should never teach. Some feel that they are more specific - that wives should not teach their husbands. Some feel that these verses refer to a group of woman who were leading a particular church astray.
Regardless, while we may disagree with what the verses mean, they are still Scripture. Paul wrote them under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit and we have no right to say I disagree with what God's Word says! Our only obligation is to either obey or disobey!
If you do a search, you will find many posts dealing with this topic!
Your Brother in Christ,
Tim Moran |
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Women teaching or in authority |
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1 Timothy
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Where in the Bible does it say that Mary Magdalene was the adultress caught in the act? Seems poor Mary gets all kinds of stories attributed to her that are just conjecture. |
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Women teaching or in authority |
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1 Timothy
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Tim, I worded that wrong. I know it's the inspired word, but like you said many differences of opinion. I feel like sometimes paul also gets where he is more speaking of the statutes and ordinances more than the law. Women sometime get suppressed because of the differences of that interpretation. And because it is the inspired word of God, then it's there to see. It's difficult especially when I am always being told that women have their roles in the church, but it's not of any of high importance of teaching the word of God, but when I was going to a church years ago. Two evangelists came to visit our church. The woman evangelist had to sit in the pew while the male evangelist got sit up in the pulpit. I feel women could be a real strength and power for God and Iesous in strengthening the people of God, and spreading the Word. Jesus had the highest respect for them. I believ it's wife, because it does say that elsewhere where it's translated wife. Thanks for you help. serenetime |
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Women teaching or in authority |
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1 Timothy
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Greetings Serenetime!
Thanks for the response! I lean toward wife myself, but I haven't totally made up my mind!
Your Brother in Christ,
Tim Moran |
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