“When God Won’t Stay Silent”

1 Corinthians 14:34–35

Scripture: “The women should keep silent in the churches. For they are not permitted to speak, but should be subordinate, as the law also says. If there is anything they desire to learn, let them ask their husbands at home. For it is shameful for a woman to speak in church.”

Reflection: For centuries, Paul’s words to the Corinthian church have been used as a way to silence women. But when we look deeper, we see that his intent was not exclusion, it was order and respect so the Gospel could be heard clearly. Corinth was a noisy, bustling city, and worship took place in homes or open courtyards where distractions and side conversations could disturb the message. Paul addressed a cultural moment, not a timeless command to silence half the church. Throughout history, God has called the misunderstood and the marginalized, the people the world overlooks, to lead, speak, and serve. Women like Lydia, Priscilla, and Phoebe shaped the early church. Later, Harriet Tubman, Florence Nightingale, and Susanna Wesley carried forward the work of justice, compassion, and spiritual leadership. John Wesley himself began by doubting women’s public ministry, but necessity and the undeniable work of the Holy Spirit changed his mind. Today, the challenge remains. We must resist cultural pressures that mute the voices God has anointed. Every believer carries gifts meant for the good of the whole body of Christ. When we silence someone based on gender, status, or background, we risk silencing part of God’s message. Instead, we are called to be a community that invites, encourages, and listens to all whom God sends.

Consider This: Whose voice do you need to listen to this week? What group does society silence that you could find out about?

Prayer: Lord, help us to hear Your voice through every voice You call. Give us humility to re-examine our assumptions, courage to create space for the silenced, and faith to follow Your Spirit wherever it leads. Amen.