Can Women Preach in Church? Debating 1 Timothy 2:12

In this article, we will delve into the debate surrounding 1 Timothy 2:12 and whether it allows for women to preach in the weekly gathering of a local church under the authority of male elders. John Piper takes the stance that women should not be permitted to preach, while Andrew Wilson argues that they can. So, who is right? And does it really matter?

Let's begin by examining John Piper's position. Piper firmly believes that women should not preach in the local church, even under the authority of the elders. He also asserts that women should not regularly teach Sunday School to a mixed audience. His argument is based on his interpretation of 1 Timothy 2:12, which states, "I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man." According to Piper, if the elders allow a woman to preach, they are essentially permitting something that God forbids.

On the other hand, Andrew Wilson presents three arguments to support the idea that women can preach under the authority and permission of the elders. Firstly, he argues that not all preaching is teaching. There are different types of speaking mentioned in the New Testament, such as exhortation, prophecy, or evangelistic preaching, which are not necessarily restricted to men. Wilson believes that women can engage in these forms of speaking.

Secondly, Wilson suggests that teaching in the context of 1 Timothy 2:12 likely refers to the preservation and transmission of the authentic apostolic witness to Jesus before the New Testament was written down. He believes that this specific type of teaching is what women are prohibited from doing, rather than all forms of teaching.

Lastly, Wilson distinguishes between "big-T" and "little-t" teaching. He points to passages like 1 Corinthians 14:26 and Colossians 3:16, where it is encouraged for everyone in the church to teach and instruct one another. Wilson suggests that women would be included in this admonition, as long as they are not engaging in formal, regular teaching to a mixed audience. He provides an example of how his church handles this distinction, with non-elders submitting their sermons to an elder for feedback before delivering them publicly.

While Wilson's arguments may seem compelling, it is important to take a closer look at 1 Timothy 2:12. The verse clearly prohibits women from both teaching and exercising authority over men. Andreas Köstenberger's analysis of this phrase reveals that two distinct activities are being prohibited. It is not just a matter of women being restricted from holding the office of elder or overseer; they are also not to engage in the function of teaching men. Therefore, it is a mistake to limit the prohibition to office while permitting the function.

Piper's cautionary stance suggests that women should not preach or regularly teach Scripture to men, even under the authority of male elders. He acknowledges that there may be some contexts where women can address a mixed audience, but preaching and regular teaching to men should be avoided. Piper's position aligns with the understanding that teaching is an essential component of preaching. Preaching, by its nature, involves the explanation and unpacking of God's word, which requires teaching. Therefore, it is not plausible to argue that preaching can take place without teaching.

Furthermore, Wilson's example of non-elders submitting their sermons to an elder for evaluation actually supports Piper's point. This process is not a form of little-t teaching; it is big-T Teaching. It is a formal, prepared sermon that is scrutinized and evaluated before being delivered. This is quite different from the informal instruction mentioned in passages like Colossians 3:16 and 1 Corinthians 14:26.

It is also worth considering the role of teaching in the church. Wilson suggests that teaching, as defined in 1 Timothy 2:12, is restricted to the period before the New Testament was written. However, teaching in the New Testament encompasses the authoritative and public transmission of tradition about Christ and the Scriptures. It is not limited to the time before the canon was completed; it is an ongoing ministry of the church. The elders, in particular, are called to labor in teaching to refute false teachers and ensure the correct teaching and apostolic deposit are passed on to the next generation.

In conclusion, John Piper's position on women preaching in the local church is well-founded and in line with the biblical text. While Andrew Wilson presents valid arguments, they do not hold up under scrutiny. The distinction between different types of speech and teaching does not support the idea that women can preach or regularly teach Scripture to men. Teaching is an essential component of preaching, and it is clear from the biblical text that women are not to engage in this function. It is important for churches to order their practices in accordance with God's word, trusting in His instructions for our flourishing and happiness. Women have many gifts and valuable roles in the church, and their significance should not be diminished by differing roles. However, it is crucial to adhere to the biblical pattern in matters of church practice and authority.