1 Corinthians 11: Unity in Christ

verse 11: However, in the Lord, neither is woman independent of man, nor is man independent of woman.

verse 12: For just as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God.

◇ The first half of chapter 11 seems to discuss the differences between men and women.

"The head of the woman is man, and the head of man is Christ. Man is the image and glory of God; but woman is the glory of man. For man did not come from woman, but woman from man; neither was man created for woman, but woman for man."  

It seems to imply that women are inferior to men.

“Women should remain silent in the churches” (1 Corinthians 14:34)

“A woman should learn in quietness and full submission” (1 Timothy 2:11)

This is evident in various places from the Old Testament to the New Testament.

Does the Bible really say that men are superior to women?

The Old Testament strictly distinguishes between the chosen Israelites and the Gentiles. It tells not to make any covenant, to exterminate all, and even to drive out and kill those who are already married and have children. So, does God not love the Gentiles? Are the Gentiles doomed to be destroyed?

We know very well that God loves the Gentiles too. This is evident through Jonah. The Bible was recorded by people who were inspired by God. God did not write it by holding people's hands. Therefore, the various values, customs, and thoughts of the time in which the authors lived are reflected in it. A strong sense of being chosen and male superiority over females are just some of those things.

Moreover, through the cross of Jesus Christ, we have all become children of God. Paul's other letters say the following:

There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:28).

We are all one. There is no hierarchy. As mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12, there are only differences in roles. Moreover, these roles are not given based on gender, ethnicity, or social status.

Are we living by the grace of Jesus' cross while still carrying the yoke of the law at the same time?

♧ God, please help us understand Your great heart! Grant us the wisdom to distinguish between essence and non-essence! Holy Spirit, lead us in truth!