14:34 As is well-known, the verse divisions and even the punctuation of the
NT were added centuries after the original manuscripts were written. The last clause of verse
33 makes much greater sense modifying the church practice in verse
34 than a universal truth about the omnipresent God (some Greek Testaments and English translations use this punctuation). For instance, the
ASV reads: "As in all the churches of the saints, let the women keep silent in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but let them be in subjection, as also saith the law." The instructions which Paul is giving to the Corinthian saints do not apply to them alone. These are the same instructions that have been addressed to
all the churches of the saints. The uniform testimony of the
NT is that while women have many valuable ministries, it is not given to them to have a public ministry to the whole church. They are entrusted with the unspeakably important work of the home and of raising children. But they are not allowed to speak publicly in the assembly. Theirs is to be a place of submission to the man.We believe that the expression
as the law also says has reference to the woman's being submissive to the man. This is clearly taught in the law, which here probably means the Pentateuch primarily.
Genesis 3:16, for instance, says "your desire shall be for your husband. And he shall rule over you."
It is often contended that what Paul is forbidding in this verse is for the women to chatter or gossip while the service is going on. However, such an interpretation is untenable. The word here translated speak ([FONT="]
laleo[/FONT]) did not mean to chatter in [FONT="]
Koine[/FONT] Greek. The same word is used of God in verse
21 of this chapter, and in
Hebrews 1:1. It means to speak authoritatively.
14:35 Indeed, women are not permitted to ask questions publicly in the church.
If they want to learn something, they should
ask their own husbands at home. Some women might try to evade the previous prohibition against speaking by asking questions. It is possible to teach by the simple act of questioning others. So this verse closes any such loophole or objection.
If it is asked how this applies to an unmarried woman or a widow, the answer is that the Scriptures do not try to take up each individual case, but merely set forth general principles. If a woman does not have a husband, she could ask her father, her brother, or one of the elders of the church. Actually, this may be translated, "Let them ask their men-folks at home." The basic rule to be remembered is that
it is shameful for women to speak in church.
Believer's Bible Commentary: A Thorough, Yet Easy-to-Read Bible Commentary That Turns Complicated Theology Into Practical Understanding.
