If NO Women Preachers, How About The Prophetesses in the Bible? | John MacArthur

Summary

In this video transcript, John MacArthur discusses the role of women in the church, referencing biblical teachings. He acknowledges the presence of prophetesses like Deborah in the Bible but emphasizes that 1 Timothy 2:1-15 instructs women to learn in silence and not to teach or exercise authority over men in church gatherings. MacArthur argues that while women have had significant roles in biblical history, the clear teaching of Scripture must be followed, suggesting that preaching and pastoral roles are divinely designed for men. He counters the idea that some roles are superior, stating that women have their own fulfilling roles as outlined in Scripture, and recommends the book 'Divine Design' for further understanding.

Takeaways

• 📜 The speaker, Melissa, agrees with the biblical view that women should not preach in the church.
• 👩‍🏫 The Bible acknowledges the roles of prophetesses like Deborah and the four daughters of Philip who prophesied, indicating women have had significant roles in the past.
• 🚫 1 Timothy 2:1-15 is cited as the clear scriptural teaching that women should not teach or take authority over men in the church's assembly.
• 🤔 The speaker suggests that while there are exceptions where God may use women in unique ways, the church should not violate the scriptural instruction.
• 👥 John MacArthur emphasizes that the roles of men and women in the church are divinely assigned and should not be altered based on personal desires or callings.
• 📚 No books of the Bible were written by a woman, and all Old Testament prophets and New Testament apostles were men, suggesting a divine design for male leadership in ministry.
• 🙅‍♀️ Women are not to serve as pastors according to the speaker, and this is not a limitation but a divinely ordained role for men.
• 💬 The speaker refutes the idea that preaching is a superior role, arguing that God has designed specific roles for both men and women, and both are important.
• 🏡 The book 'Divine Design' is recommended for further understanding of God's expectations for the roles of men and women in the home and the church.
• ✝️ The speaker concludes by stating that if women follow their divine calling, they will be fulfilled, and the Lord will be honored.

Q & A

What does the Bible say about women preaching in the church?

The Bible teaches that women are not allowed to teach or take authority over men in the church, as stated in 1 Timothy 2:12.

Are there any examples of women in leadership roles in the Bible?

Yes, the Bible mentions women like Deborah, Esther, and the four daughters of Philip who played significant roles in God's kingdom, though not necessarily as preachers or pastors.

How does the Bible justify the exclusion of women from certain leadership roles?

The Bible justifies this by stating that God has designed specific roles for men and women, and the role of preaching and pastoring is one that He has given to men.

What does the scripture say about women learning in the church?

1 Timothy 2:11 instructs women to learn in silence and with all subjection, not to teach or take authority over men.

Can women have any form of ministry in the church according to the script?

Yes, women can have ministries in the church, but they are limited by the roles specifically stated in scripture.

Is there a book recommended for understanding God's design for men and women in the church?

Yes, the book 'Divine Design' is recommended for understanding the roles of men and women in marriage and the church.

What is the argument against women serving as pastors in the church?

The argument is based on the biblical teaching that God has assigned different roles to men and women, and that preaching and pastoring are responsibilities designed for men.

How does the speaker respond to the idea that some roles in the church are inherently superior?

The speaker argues that there is no inherent superiority in certain roles; rather, it is about the roles that God has assigned to men and women.

What is the speaker's view on women who claim a calling to preach despite the scriptural prohibition?

The speaker views such claims as a form of hubris and disobedience to the word of God, rather than a valid argument for violating scriptural teachings.

What does the speaker suggest as the proper role for women in the church?

The speaker suggests that women should fulfill the roles that God has designed for them, such as being lovers of their husbands, caring for their children, and managing their homes.

How does the speaker address the idea that God might choose to use women in unique ways outside the usual limits?

The speaker acknowledges that God might use women in unique ways, but emphasizes that the church should not violate clear scriptural instructions.