Because we cannot produce the needed Bible authority for women to be in such leadership roles we reject this practice. That ought to settle this question for every member of the church. Where is the "thus saith the Lord?"

We know of places where women lead in prayer, read Scripture, and officiate at the Lord's Table--all of this in the mixed assembly at Sunday and Wednesday services. In other congregations women teach mixed adult Bible classes.

Why is it that we as God's people want to get away from what the Bible teaches about the role of women working In the church?

1 Tim 2: 11 "Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. 2 Tim 2:12 "But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence." Has the Bible changed or has the Holy Spirit given a new revelation that some are not aware of? Some are saying, "you are too old- fashioned, preacher Dan. Get with it. Times have changed. We are a 20th century modern church and not a first century relic."

The Bible doesn't say it was just a custom of the day. The evidence is simple lacking of an accommodating church government environment that would eventually be replaced by elderettes (women elders) and deaconesses (women deacons). Those who want such do so without any Scriptural authority at all. Have we forgotten we must have Scriptural authority for what we do in the work, worship and practice of the church? "And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him" (Col.3:17).

I am not saying that women are-inferior to men, no more than Christ is inferior to God. Can you not see the Bible teaches it is a matter of assigned responsibilities? It is not a matter of what I want or what I personally like or what they may be practicing in Detroit or Nashville or Dallas or where ever. God has assigned the tasks for men and women. Are we willing to accept God's arrangement?

In the church there are many talented and godly women who have talents and abilities that are being used in Scriptural ways without usurping the authority of men. In some places it is not a matter of what God wants and what God is pleased with. But it is what I want, what makes me feel good, what others maybe doing, what the church across town maybe practicing. This is the authority some use for their unscriptural innovations. But the authority for these innovations is just not in God's word. Where do people find this kind of authority being used? We find it everywhere people are disobedient to God. We find it everywhere people want to substitute their kind of worship for that which only God as authorized. We find it everywhere where people do not like to retain God in their knowledge. We find it everywhere where people are following the doctrines and commandments of men. We find It everywhere where God calls the worship a vain worship. We find it everywhere where the people of God try to be like the people round about them. -

May we always demand a "thus saith the Lord."