Scripture to Read: 1 Corinthians 11:13–16
God had Paul conclude this portion of Scripture with these words in 1 Corinthians 11:13–16, “Judge for yourselves: is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered? 14 Does not even nature itself teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a dishonor to him, 15 but if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her? For her hair is given to her for a covering. 16 But if one is inclined to be contentious, we have no other practice, nor have the churches of God.” As God led Paul to ask the question in 1 Corinthians 11:13, it’s in light of the fact that there would have been Christians who were Greeks, Jews, and Romans and they all would gather together to worship and learn from God’s Word. The women would have worn head coverings as a sign of respect and submission in accordance with the customs of the time. As we examine Scriptures like Genesis 1:27, 1 Timothy 2:9–10, and Galatians 3:28, we see how God used Paul in 1 Corinthians 11 to strengthen the identity of both men and women, God’s call upon them to be modest in their attire, and the spiritual equality of all believers. These Scripture passages provide us with a broader context, enabling us to better understand the roles God has given to men and women within the body of Christ. The roles God has called Christian men and women to surpass the cultural and societal norms set by man-centered rules and regulations.
Challenge & Application
How should we conduct ourselves in worship according to God’s standard?
How can you help new believers understand their role as a follower of Christ?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!