Elders, Deacons, Preachers, Saints

In I Corinthians 11 Paul identifies cultural distinctions as well as specified order of life from Christ, men and women. Included in this is the discussion of the cultural element of women's hair and head coverings. Although cultural distinctions are important, they are limited in scope. However, in the public role of women, Paul clearly teaches that a woman is to have a submissive role. This is not intended as an inferior role, only a different role that men occupy.

In I Corinthians 14, Paul is discussing the intent and proper use of spiritual gifts, specifically in the context of miraculous gifts. Beginning in verse 26 he discusses orderly worship. He includes in this that women are not to speak publicly when the church comes together for worship. Some take this to include Bible study periods. It is the opinion of this author that in the context of this chapter, Paul is discussing our formal worship times and not Bible classes. Bible study model is something added in modern times, therefore Paul's statement does not apply so long as the woman is a participant and not leading the class.

Full ministry puts forth the ideas that a woman can serve in any capacity in a congregation to include being a preacher, deacon or elder.

Limited ministry is a traditional biblical position that states that men only can be appointed as preachers, deacons and elders and lead in public worship.

• Cultural argument – Prohibitions on the role of women were man made (rabbinical). This carried over to the New Testament since Paul was a former Pharisee and Rabi. Since the culture has changed, so too should the church.
• Phoebe argument – In Romans 16:1-2, Phoebe is referred to as a deaconess and thus proves that women held this position, however, the Greek word here is the common word meaning servant. We create a precedent when we mistranslate this word.
• Equal argument – This position states that since Galatians 3:26 states we are all "sons of God" then all should be able to serve equally in ministry. Of course, Paul is confirming that we are all equally saved in Christ, not that we lose our identities and roles when we become Christians.
• Example argument – There are many examples of women ministering to prophets and leaders so they should be allowed to minister fully in the church today. It is men who limit a woman's role and not God. However, a careful search of the scriptures will not yield any command, example or logical conclusion that gives any women a leadership role in the church.

• Cultural argument – Culture played a role in the early church but scripture is inspired by God. Cultures do change and some elements can change with them. However, we must remember that the apostles, Paul included, had the express authority to "bind and loose" (Matthew 16:19; Matthew 18:19). The apostles did this in many situations (i.e. baptism, worship). We do not have the authority to deviate from their instructions and mandates in scripture.
• Phoebe argument – The word deacon was a commonly used word to describe a servant. In the case of Phoebe, she was recognized for her devotion to service. The specific role of deacons withing congregations carries a special designation with specified qualifications that identify this role with males only. This is not to be prejudice or chauvinistic, but simply a matter of inspired record that we all must obey. A point of note, all must remember that whatever role we are given, we will be judged on how we serve. Leaders (i.e. preachers, teachers, elders, deacons) will be held to a higher standard because of their ability to influence others.
• Equal argument – The Bible teaches men and women are equal before God no matter the customs of the New Testament period. The Bible does make distinction in roles because of nature and those assigned by God. We are all equally saved when we are united with Christ through baptism but we do not discard our assigned roles. These roles do not mean inferiority, only differences.
• Example argument – It is not accurate that there are many examples of women ministers in leadership roles in scripture. Paul teaches distinction in roles in worship, prayer and leadership in I Corinthians 14:33-35 and I Timothy 2:8-15. There are many roles for women that are critical for teaching, nurturing and supporting. These roles are identified in scripture and must be honored as opportunities to serve God as He wills.

When we are united with Christ, we commit ourselves to His teachings. Our will is subordinate to His. That must always be kept in focus. We must be careful, whether men or women, to not let our personal desires put us in positions where we go against the teachings of Jesus.

As Paul taught in I Corinthians 12, the body of Christ is made of many parts, all important, and none more important than others.