Dear LA

We had a vigorous debate on this topic, but it remained unresolved. I read your comment on another post where you referenced this issue, so I thought I should bring it directly to you. Do you have an opinion?

Hello Moses,

This is a major doctrinal issue that has persisted for centuries. Here’s my position—it’s a long one:

HISTORY

The Bible, especially the Old Testament, primarily documents the history of the Jewish people. The New Testament continues this but also records the expansion of what began as a Jewish faith to include Gentiles (non-Jewish people).

JEWISH PATRIARCHY

Jewish society, both historically and traditionally, has been structured around male leadership and authority, particularly in family, religious, and communal roles.

In a patriarchal system, men typically hold primary power in religious leadership (e.g., priests in ancient times, rabbis), family decision-making, and legal authority. Traditional Jewish law (Halakha) assigns distinct roles to men and women, with men leading religious services, studying Torah in formal settings, and holding key leadership positions in the community.

This patriarchal culture is reflected in the Old Testament. For example, Jacob is often presented as though he had only sons, which is why we frequently hear about the “twelve tribes of Israel.” However, the Bible records at least one of Jacob’s daughters—Dinah (Genesis 30:21). Genesis 37:35 and Genesis 46:7 also hint at the existence of other daughters, though Dinah is the only one explicitly named.

JESUS’ DISCIPLES

Jesus was a practicing Jew. While Christianity eventually became more inclusive, Jesus adhered to many Jewish traditions. This is evident in His selection of the twelve disciples, all of whom were male.

However, He was not necessarily setting a rigid precedent for the future Church. The Old Testament itself provides examples of women in leadership, such as Deborah, who served as a judge over Israel (Judges 4:4-5).

THE NEW TESTAMENT AND WOMEN IN CHURCH LEADERSHIP

Some churches that exclude women from leadership roles, such as pastors or parish heads, often follow Jewish traditions rather than Christian doctrine.

Passages Often Used to Restrict Women in Leadership

Several New Testament passages are frequently cited to argue against female leadership in the church, though interpretations vary.

 1. 1Timothy 2:11-12

“A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet.”

 • This passage is often used to justify restrictions on female leadership.

 • However, some scholars argue that Paul was addressing a specific issue in the Ephesians church rather than issuing a universal command. And he said, “I do not permit…”, and not “the Lord does not permit”.

 2. 1 Corinthians 14:34-35

“Women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak but must be in submission, as the law says.”

 • Some take this passage literally, while others believe Paul was referring to maintaining order in worship rather than imposing an absolute ban on women speaking or leading.

Passages That Support Women in Leadership

 1. Romans 16:1-2

 • Paul commends Phoebe, calling her a deacon (or servant) of the church in Cenchreae.

 • The Greek word “diakonos”, used to describe her, is the same word used for male deacons.

 2. Romans 16:7

 • Paul greets Junia, calling her “outstanding among the apostles.”

 • Many scholars believe this affirms that a woman held an apostolic role.

 3. Acts 18:24-26

 • Priscilla, along with her husband Aquila, teaches Apollos, a prominent early Christian preacher.

 • This suggests that women played significant teaching roles.

 4. Galatians 3:28

“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

 • This verse is often cited to argue for gender equality in church leadership.

Different Christian Interpretations

 1. Complementarianism

 • Men and women are equal but have different roles, with men leading in the church and home.

 2. Egalitarianism

 • Men and women are equal in all aspects, including church leadership.

Today, many Protestant denominations—such as Methodist, Pentecostal, and some Baptist and Evangelical groups—support female pastors. However, others, including the Catholic Church and many conservative Protestant groups, do not.

MY TAKE

While many churches remain deeply rooted in Jewish patriarchal traditions, it is essential to recognize that this is not necessarily Christian doctrine.

If a church finds it beneficial to appoint and ordain female leaders, they should do so. On the other hand, if a church prefers to maintain a patriarchal structure, that is also their prerogative.

Moses, I hope this has been helpful.

LA