The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum More Sticky Issues of Women in the Church

I think Ligon Duncan, &co., has a much more amiable interpretation of Paul's teaching to me. I too think the "key" is the context in which we read that passage, i.e., the corporate/public worship of the saints. Thus, the FULL responsibility of worship, teaching, and discipline rests solely upon the ordained men of the church, which offices can only be occupied by men.

Now, I mentioned, "leading in worship" because in many modern churches there is a "minister of worship or music" position created. Because music is to be complimentary to the preaching of the Word, it is essential that the Pastor/Elders be the one(s) who is responsible for ALL aspects of it. Thus, if the Elders decide to delegate some responsibility in the area of singing, the individual appointed must be 1) a man, 2) work in close conjunction with the preaching/teaching Elder(s), and 3) be qualified, e.g., doctrinally/theologically knowledgeable and sound.

What I was opposing was a situation where a woman would come before the congregation and "lead" the congregation in song during formal worship, thus, IMHO, usurping the authority given to those who are ordained to do this. And, I believe that the Elders do not have any authority to delegate their authority to anyone who cannot qualify, i.e., a woman, who the Scripture says must remain "silent" in such circumstances.

I hope this clarifies my position. <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

In His Grace,