Women Pastors.

Please inform me on what the Bible has to say about women pastors.

The Bible is quite definite on its view. If you believe that it is the Word of God, and therefore containing inspired and infallible advice, then it is against women preachers.

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16,17

"Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit." 2 Peter 1:20,21

Regarding the place of women preachers, Paul was quite clear.

"As in all the congregations of the saints, women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the Law says. If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church." 1 Corinthians 14:33b-35

He repeated the matter in another letter, confirming that it was not solely a matter regarding those at Corinth.

"A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent." 1 Timothy 2:11,12

He then goes on to provide the reason:

"For Adam was formed first, then Eve. And Adam was not the one deceived; it was the woman who was deceived and became a sinner." verses 1 Timothy 2:13,14

Paul is not being sexist in his approach as some might claim. He is arguing that it was Eve who got Adam into trouble in the first place by giving him wrong advice. It is therefore inappropriate that she should now position herself as one with authority. In modern jargon, Eve blew it when she went directly against God's commandment.

But that restriction does not apply to non-authoritarian instruction, such as talking to one's neighbour or mission work. Indeed, a woman can be very effective in such communications, and many have been brought to a knowledge of the Bible in this way. A number of women in the New Testament were highly commended for their work for God.

"Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God." Titus 2:3-5