Wednesday, October 14, 2020
Woman's Role in Ministry in the Church
Monica Smithson wrote this, it is exactly right!
Pastor means shepherd (masculine noun). A woman can not be a shepherd but a shepherdess. All the priests in the Bible were men.
There is perhaps no more hotly debated issue in the church today than the issue of women serving as pastors. As a result, it is very important to not see this issue as men versus women. There are women who believe women should not serve as pastors and that the Bible places restrictions on the ministry of women, and there are men who believe women can serve as pastors and that there are no restrictions on women in ministry. This is not an issue of chauvinism or discrimination. It is an issue of biblical interpretation.
The Word of God proclaims, “A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent” (1 Timothy 2:11–12). In the church, God assigns different roles to men and women. This is a result of the way mankind was created and the way in which sin entered the world (1 Timothy 2:13–14). God, through the apostle Paul, restricts women from serving in roles of teaching and/or having spiritual authority over men. This precludes women from serving as pastors over men, which definitely includes preaching to them, teaching them publicly, and exercising spiritual authority over them.
There are many objections to this view of women in pastoral ministry. A common one is that Paul restricts women from teaching because in the first century, women were typically uneducated. However, 1 Timothy 2:11–14 nowhere mentions educational status. If education were a qualification for ministry, then the majority of Jesus’ disciples would not have been qualified. A second common objection is that Paul only restricted the women of Ephesus from teaching men (1 Timothy was written to Timothy, the pastor of the church in Ephesus). Ephesus was known for its temple to Artemis, and women were the authorities in that branch of paganism—therefore, the theory goes, Paul was only reacting against the female-led customs of the Ephesian idolaters, and the church needed to be different. However, the book of 1 Timothy nowhere mentions Artemis, nor does Paul mention the standard practice of Artemis worshipers as a reason for the restrictions in 1 Timothy 2:11–12.
A third objection is that Paul is only referring to husbands and wives, not men and women in general. The Greek words for “woman” and “man” in 1 Timothy 2 could refer to husbands and wives; however, the basic meaning of the words is broader than that. Further, the same Greek words are used in verses 8–10. Are only husbands to lift up holy hands in prayer without anger and disputing (verse 8)? Are only wives to dress modestly, have good deeds, and worship God (verses 9–10)? Of course not. Verses 8–10 clearly refer to all men and women, not just husbands and wives. There is nothing in the context that would indicate a narrowing to husbands and wives in verses 11–14.
Yet another objection to this interpretation of women in pastoral ministry is in relation to women who held positions of leadership in the Bible, specifically Miriam, Deborah, and Huldah in the Old Testament. It is true that these women were chosen by God for special service to Him and that they stand as models of faith, courage, and, yes, leadership. However, the authority of women in the Old Testament is not relevant to the issue of pastors in the church. The New Testament Epistles present a new paradigm for God’s people—the church, the body of Christ—and that paradigm involves an authority structure unique to the church, not for the nation of Israel or any other Old Testament entity.
Similar arguments are made using Priscilla and Phoebe in the New Testament. In Acts 18, Priscilla and Aquila are presented as faithful ministers for Christ. Priscilla’s name is mentioned first, perhaps indicating that she was more prominent in ministry than her husband. Did Priscilla and her husband teach the gospel of Jesus Christ to Apollos? Yes, in their home they “explained to him the way of God more adequately” (Acts 18:26). Does the Bible ever say that Priscilla pastored a church or taught publicly or became the spiritual leader of a congregation of saints? No. As far as we know, Priscilla was not involved in ministry activity in contradiction to 1 Timothy 2:11–14.
In Romans 16:1, Phoebe is called a “deacon” (or “servant”) in the church and is highly commended by Paul. But, as with Priscilla, there is nothing in Scripture to indicate that Phoebe was a pastor or a teacher of men in the church. “Able to teach” is given as a qualification for elders, but not for deacons (1 Timothy 3:1–13; Titus 1:6–9).
The structure of 1 Timothy 2:11–14 makes the reason why women cannot be pastors perfectly clear. Verse 13 begins with “for,” giving the “cause” of Paul’s statement in verses 11–12. Why should women not teach or have authority over men? Because “Adam was created first, then Eve. And Adam was not the one deceived; it was the woman who was deceived” (verses 13–14). God created Adam first and then created Eve to be a “helper” for Adam. The order of creation has universal application in the family (Ephesians 5:22–33) and in the church.
The fact that Eve was deceived is also given in 1 Timothy 2:14 as a reason for women not serving as pastors or having spiritual authority over men. This does not mean that women are gullible or that they are all more easily deceived than men. If all women are more easily deceived, why would they be allowed to teach children (who are easily deceived) and other women (who are supposedly more easily deceived)? The text simply says that women are not to teach men or have spiritual authority over men because Eve was deceived. God has chosen to give men the primary teaching authority in the church.
Many women excel in gifts of hospitality, mercy, teaching, evangelism, and helping/serving. Much of the ministry of the local church depends on women. Women in the church are not restricted from public praying or prophesying (1 Corinthians 11:5), only from having spiritual teaching authority over men. The Bible nowhere restricts women from exercising the gifts of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12). Women, just as much as men, are called to minister to others, to demonstrate the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23), and to proclaim the gospel to the lost (Matthew 28:18–20; Acts 1:8; 1 Peter 3:15).
God has ordained that only men are to serve in positions of spiritual teaching authority in the church. This is not because men are necessarily better teachers or because women are inferior or less intelligent (which is not the case). It is simply the way God designed the church to function. Men are to set the example in spiritual leadership—in their lives and through their words. Women are to take a less authoritative role. Women are encouraged to teach other women (Titus 2:3–5). The Bible also does not restrict women from teaching children. The only activity women are restricted from is teaching or having spiritual authority over men. This precludes women from serving as pastors to men. This does not make women less important, by any means, but rather gives them a ministry focus more in agreement with God’s plan and His gifting of them.
Possession verses Influence
Sister Sherry said: "Christians can't be possessed by demons, but can be controlled by them."
My response to her was the following:
I have no doubt of this because of the account of Peter with Christ. When Peter attempted to turn Christ from His purposes here, Christ turned to Peter and said; "get thee behind me satan." He didn't use Peter's name but did rebuke satan who was using Peter's mouth.
In the world, today believers seem to be up against it with "Christians" even far more than they battle the world.
Perhaps because the "Christians" they encounter have never been born again and do not know the Bible, they lurk about used by the devil to undermine the walk of those who love Christ genuinely.
Euthanasia is not the Answer!
The Netherlands is strengthening the law for euthanasia to include any child under the age of one year old.
"Intervention to end a life is also already legal in the Netherlands for children older than 12 if consent is given by the patient and their parents. Babies up to a year old may also have their lives ended with parental consent." The Guardian Newspaper Reports
Does anything here sound familiar?
Our world is becoming darker every day. It is vitally important that we trust Christ and refrain from taking the place of God by reasoning our way into legalized murder.
Because the culture of the Netherlands is so deeply godless just as America is following suit, anything goes that makes good sense to those who care little about righteousness and more about ease and what they call quality of life.
Many things we have to endure have purpose according to God's plan and will ultimately lead to greater holiness and a place in heaven.
As born again believers we do not think in terms of easing someone's life merely to take them out of pain or to relieve the loved ones of the responsibility of comforting and caring for them. We are dedicated to comforting and helping others through their difficulties with dignity as they endure their trials.
Those cultures that think only in terms of this life without God will not tolerate anything for the greater good. Their answer to everything is to expunge those who might be a burden to others. Yes, they cloak their language in verbiage about "quality of life" or "choice" for the individual but in reality, it's all about the all mighty dollar and removing an ailing problem person from the lives of those who love their happiness and pleasure.
Born again believers do not think like the world, they have eternity in view. This life is training for the next one as well as glorifying God as others watch us suffer in joy because Christ is our help.
There is no greater witness to the unbeliever than a joyful person who is enduring through their pain with all hope in spite of what they endure. It is noble to endure and persevere when it appears that there is no hope, the believer always has hope because this life is not all there is, the next one is far greater than anyone can imagine if one suffers and dies in Christ.
Romans 8:17-19 "17And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him. 18 I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us. 19The creation waits in eager expectation for the revelation of the sons of God.…"
Romans 8:19
"The creation waits in eager expectation for the revelation of the sons of God."
2 Corinthians 4:17
"For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison."
Colossians 3:4
"When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory."
Titus 2:13
"as we await the blessed hope and glorious appearance of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ."
1 Peter 1:5
"who through faith are shielded by God's power for the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time."
1 Peter 4:13
"But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed at the revelation of His glory."
Casting Out the Devils
Do not attempt to cast devils out of someone who wants them there. Only those who want to be freed from devils will turn to Christ to be cleansed and the devils never come back into the person. If the devils come back then the person was never born again. Devils cannot dwell in the same body with the Holy Spirit and the Holy Spirit is our seal of promise that we will never be lost again.
Matthew 12:43-45
43 “Now when the unclean spirit goes out of a man, it passes through waterless places seeking rest, and does not find it. 44 Then it says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came’; and when it comes, it finds it unoccupied, swept, and put in order. 45 Then it goes and takes along with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there; and the last state of that man becomes worse than the first. That is the way it will also be with this evil generation.”
Ephesians 1:13 "
"In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation—having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise,"
No one, not even us can unseal the Kings seal!
If anyone wants to be free from the devil's influence he must confess his sinfulness and ask God through Christ to change them into a new creation. Then is when Christ does all His work in us, He saves us, dwells in us, instructs and helps us and when His time is right He takes us home to be with Him.
Alan Speaks the Truth
Alan Brayshaw
" NO ONE CALLS ON YOUR NAME or strives to lay hold of you;
for you have hidden your face from us and have given us over to our sins." WHEN DID AMERICA REPENT? When did we fall to Our knees and Weep in dust and Ashes? When did we turn from Our Evil Ways? When did we Stop Murdering the Unborn Children? When Did we Put JESUS Back into Schools and Government.? JUDGMENT IS COMING AND MOST ARE SAYING ALL IS GOOD." HOW FOOLISH,.. MANY WILL PERISH IN THE COMING YEARS."
" You meet him who rejoices and does righteousness,
Who remembers You in Your ways.
You are indeed angry, for we have sinned—
In these ways we continue;
And we need to be saved.
6 But we are all like an unclean thing,
And all our righteousnesses are like [a]filthy rags;
We all fade as a leaf,
And our iniquities, like the wind,
Have taken us away.
7 And there is no one who calls on Your name,
Who stirs himself up to take hold of You;
For You have hidden Your face from us,
And have [b]consumed us because of our iniquities.
8 But now, O Lord,
You are our Father;
We are the clay, and You our potter;
And all we are the work of Your hand.
9 Do not be furious, O Lord,
Nor remember iniquity forever; "
Indeed, please look—we all are Your people!"
Isaiah 64:5-9
All the Bad We Don't Want will Happen
"Everything bad we don't want to happen is going to happen. We have spit in God's face pretending to like Him while secretly despising Him.
Just talk to any "Christian" anywhere in our country about the sin of divorce and remarriage and watch what comes out of them. The person you thought was so loving and kind turns into a monster with raging fire eyes and venomous words over this subject.
God was clear about divorce and remarriage. If you do not believe me then go to His word in humility, pray for Him to open your eyes and you will be astounded what He will show you.
It just a matter of wanting to know the heart of God. Those who refuse to obey Him, seek Him, and love Him, will not understand, but its not because they can't, it's because they don't want to understand, they just want their own truth that justifies what God hates.
The marriage is likened to the relationships between Christ and His church. When we mock, demean, and dismiss His commands on marriage we are mocking, demeaning, and dismissing Him. He is the very essence of His Word.
John 14:15-16 "15If you love Me, you will keep My commandments. 16And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever—…"
When we ask He gives as long as we ask according to His Perfect Will.
1 John 5:13-15 "13 I have written these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life. 14 And this is the confidence that we have before Him: If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 15 And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we already possess what we have asked of Him.…"
Our words do not have power, only God's Words have power. Praying does not assure us of what we want. Praying in the will of Christ Who lives in us is the only power for anyone and only for the born again believer. God does not hear the prayers of those who hate Him, except the prayer of repentance with a desire to be changed into a new creation by Christ.
Your Choice to be a Narcissist or to Become Born Again
The narcissist pets a dog so the dog will be loyal to him. The narcissist indulges their children so the children will be loyal to them.
The narcissist will mock, demean and lie against anyone who knows them for who they are in an attempt to foster anger in their target so they can say; "see how you are" when you become angry at their evil behavior.
The loving, kind, and godly persons train their children the right way to go that the children might be blessed and honor God in their attitudes and actions. They do this for the protection of the children throughout their life.
The loving, kind, and godly person pet the dog so the dog will feel loved and safe.
Is it easy to see the mentality of the narcissist as opposed to the godly person? The narcissist does everything, good and bad deeds to bring glory to himself.
The godly person has a character that allows him the freedom to be vulnerable for the sake of others. His view of life is not how much he can get out of it or who will worship him because He worships Christ and desires that others worship Christ too.
The narcissist wants to be worshipped without regard to God or others on any level.
When the godly person is corrected they pray over it, admit when they have failed, and carry on to be a better person. Not the narcissist, this person rages against correction, refuses to admit anything is their fault, does not apologize, and worse yet, increases their attacks to bring about more strife.
For those who have been one who has confessed often in their life, you know how freeing and what a great blessing it is to never have to impress others. You also know how lovely it is to dwell with a clear conscience that brings great joy.
The narcissist never has joy, they are burdened down continually with the task of appearing superior to others. They do not walk in peace and contentment because they have none within their character.
Here is the character qualities of a born again believer:
Galatians 5:22-23 "22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."
Those who have the fruit of Christ Who lives in them never have to try real hard to have this fruit, they have it as an integral part of their character, it comes as natural as breathing.
The narcissist does not have this fruit and it is quite evident to those who are born again. The narcissist thinks they are hiding their evil self but those who have the fruit know those that do not have it.
Romans 8:15-17 "…15For you did not receive a spirit of slavery that returns you to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” 16The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. 17And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him.…"
Those who must always attempt to be superior to others do not know the peace and joy of the Lord. They live in bondage to their dying and beggarly flesh that dominates them all their waking moments.
To the narcissist I have this to say; stop working so hard to be special above others, confess your sinfulness to become born again, and trust in Christ. He will remove you dark and weary spirit and replace it with humility, joy, and peace. It's up to you to choose, no one can help you, only the Holy Spirit can save you from yourself and the devil that controls your thoughts. You must be born again to be rescued from your fleshly good deeds that are as filthy rags to God.
Matthew 15:8
"8 ‘This people honors Me with their lips,
But their heart is far away from Me."
You can pretend all you want with great swelling words about yourself but it means nothing to God. You can do many deeds that only glorify yourself that also means nothing to God.
Matthew 7: 21-23 "I Never Knew You
21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ 23 And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’"
Isaiah 64:6 " 6 Each of us has become like something unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all wither like a leaf, and our iniquities carry us away like the wind. "
Those who are born again must continually seek God to make sure their motives bless Him. The unbelieving narcissist must repent, confess their sinfulness, and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. Without confession, there is no cleansing.
1 John 1:9
"9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
May we all choose to seek Christ and grow in holiness!
Without Confession there is no Spiritual Growth
God told us to confess our sins to be cleansed. This makes sense that if we cannot admit that we have flaws and sins then we will never grow and change. We see in this world of the teaching of self-esteem that many if not most people do not self-reflect anymore to be able to become mature. This is why we see people growing into their elderly years still remaining ignorant and arrogant. May we all learn to self-reflect evaluate ourselves according to the word of God and progress toward holiness.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)