Summary: There have always been divisions over what woman’s role can be defined as in the church, and Paul gives Timothy the guideline in this passage of scripture.

Women’s Role in the New Testament Church

1 Timothy 2:9-15

I. Adorned with Good Works, Not Flashy Apparel (v. 9-10; 1 Peter 3:3-4)

II. Submissive to Instruction by the Spiritual Leaders (v. 11-12; 1 Peter 3:1-6)

a. No contradiction (v. 11)

b. No Authority over man (v. 12)

III. Reasons for Women’s Role (v. 13-15; 1 Corinthians 11:1-12)

a. Creation defines it (v. 13; Genesis 2:7, 22)

b. The sequence of the Fall of Man proves it (v. 14; Genesis 3:6, 13, 16; 2 Corinthians 11:3; McArthur)

c. Their pro-creation role (v. 15)

McArthur—A woman’s subordinate role did not result after the Fall as a cultural, chauvinistic corruption of God’s perfect design; rather, God established her role as part of His original creation. God made woman after man to be his suitable helper. The Fall actually corroborates God’s divine plan of creation. By nature Eve was not suited to assume the position of ultimate responsibility. By leaving Adam’s protection and usurping his headship, she was vulnerable and fell, thus confirming how important it was for her to stay under the protection and leadership of her husband…Ultimately, the responsibility for the Fall rests on Adam, since he chose to disobey God apart from being deceived (Romans 5:12-21; 1 Corinthians 15:21-22)