Should Women Keep Silent in Church? | 1 Corinthians 14 & 1 Timothy 2 Explained

What does Paul really mean when he says “Let your women keep silent in the churches” (1 Corinthians 14:34–35) and “I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man” (1 Timothy 2:11–12)? Are women completely forbidden to speak in the assembly—or is there more to the story? In this video from Passage Unlocked, Jim Murrell unpacks two of the most misunderstood verses in the New Testament. We’ll look at the context of Corinth and Ephesus, the Greek words Paul used, and the biblical principle of order and submission in worship. Along the way, you’ll see why Paul’s words were never meant to silence women’s faith, but to honor God’s design for leadership in the church. 📖 Key Scriptures Covered 1 Corinthians 14:34–35 (NKJV) 1 Timothy 2:11–12 (NKJV) 1 Corinthians 11:5 Titus 2:3–5 Acts 18:26 Romans 16 Galatians 3:28 ✨ What You’ll Learn in This Video: Why Paul used the same word “keep silent” for tongue-speakers, prophets, and women in worship (1 Cor. 14). The difference between absolute silence and calm quietness (Greek: hesuchia). The meaning of authentein (“to exercise authority in a domineering way”). How Paul grounded his teaching in God’s creation order, not cultural bias. The vital roles women played in the early church—praying, teaching, serving, and spreading the gospel. Four practical takeaways for men and women today: respecting God’s order, recognizing women’s vital service, guarding against misuse, and remembering Christ’s example of submission. 🎯 Big Idea: These verses are not about silencing women’s voices, but about bringing peace, clarity, and unity to God’s church through His design for worship and leadership. 👉 If you’ve ever wondered, “What does it mean when Paul says women should keep silent?”—this video will give you the biblical context, historical background, and practical application you need. 👍 If this video helps you, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe! 🔔 Turn on notifications so you don’t miss future devotionals from Passage Unlocked. 💬 Question for You: How have you heard these passages explained before, and what stood out to you in today’s study? Share your thoughts below—I’d love to hear from you!