“But if one is inclined to be contentious, we have no other practice, nor have the churches of God.” (1 Corinthians 11:16)
To fully appreciate the above verse, you need to read the ones which come before it. The practice Paul is addressing is that, in the church, men and women are taught as being different: different roles, different responsibilities, and different strengths. The idea that men and women are different from the biological beginning is a contentious topic today.
So what is the Bible answer when society is upset by the Holy Spirit’s teachings on gender? Paul says, “We have no other practice, nor have the churches of God.”
Don’t apologize for biblical gender teachings. We must remain consistent while the world is fickle. After all, it is best not to take advice from a society that can’t even decide what a woman or a man is.
Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites
Today’s Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:9-16
Questions to ask:
- How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
- What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
- How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
- What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
- How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?
This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision