1 Corinthians 14:34-35 (KJV), “Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. And if they will learn anything, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.”  

1 Timothy 2:11-12 (KJV), ”Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.”           

The church at Corinth was in a very disorderly condition. Their meetings were often confused and unprofitable. The apostle is providing some very necessary regulations so that all things might be done “properly and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40). Some women, who were lacking the ability to publicly explain God’s Word, were thus disorderly. They were better off listening in silence. These were instructed to inquire of their husbands further at home (1 Corinthians 14:35).

The idea today is not to prohibit a woman from using her talents or teaching the truth to others. For example, Philip “…had four virgin daughters who were prophetesses.” (Acts 21:9 NASB) A “prophet” is defined with “the primary meaning of telling forth the Divine counsels.” (Vine’s Dictionary) Divine counsels would include explaining the Scriptures. These daughters must have been witnessing to the public. Another witnessing example shows Priscilla and her husband, Aquila, explaining to a man “the way of God even more accurately” (Acts 18:26).

The most effective ways for a woman to use her talents do not include leading church meetings. However, women, as stewards, must use their talents. 1 Corinthians 4:1,2, “regard us, as stewards of the mysteries of God…it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” (Also 1 Peter 4:10, 11)

During a Bible study, a woman may, in the full exercise of her liberty as a child of God, bring forth clearly all her strong reasons and convictions of the truth with moderation, humility and candor. This acknowledges the natural headship of man and avoids even the appearance of usurping authority. (1 Corinthians 11:3; 1 Timothy 2:11, 12) The “silence” or quietness expressed by the Apostle in 1 Corinthians 14:35 is not to be understood in an absolute sense.   

There are many roles of service to their churches as well as witnessing the good news to the world that they may assume, especially in our modern era of Internet and technology. It is important to remember that God does not perceive men as “better” than women. Women and men just have different roles within the church. God created each gender with various strengths and weaknesses and in his wisdom determined which roles fit each gender. The good news is that in terms of salvation, God gives men and women equal opportunity to enter his heavenly kingdom. “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28)

Any interpretation of the apostle’s words which would ignore all opportunity for the women to “labor in the Lord” would certainly be erroneous. It is in the gatherings of the church, (where two or more come to worship, praise or edify, see Matthew 18:20), that the women are to take a subordinate place and not attempt to be the leaders and teachers. (1 Timothy 2:12) To do so would be usurping authority over the man. The Lord has placed the responsibility of the leading of ministries upon the man. We encourage listening to the Additional Resources below, which scripturally explains the origination of the gender roles as part of the original curse according to Genesis 3:16.

Additional Resources: 

Christian Questions Podcast 
Episode #1032: Is the Bible Behind the Times on #MeToo?
Biblical perspective on the treatment of women in light of #metoo
Preview Video  CQ Rewind Show Notes

Episode #865: Does the Bible Advocate for Women’s Rights?
Treatment of and respect for women in Scripture
 CQ Rewind Show Notes