This is a requirement which is very clearly stated in the scriptures (I Cor. 14:35-36, I Tim. 2:11-12, I Tim. 3:2). Accordingly, there is no scriptural precedent for female elders. Churches placing women in ministerial offices appear to regard the authority of the scriptures to be subordinate to current social fashions. 

This does not relieve women of their obligation and right to teach in other capacities (I Tim. 5:14, Tit. 2:3-5), nor does it disallow the possibility of women possessing special spiritual guidance and gifts (Jud. 4:4, II Ki. 22:14, Lk. 2:36, Acts 2:17, Acts 21:9). However, we are persuaded that any woman assuming a teaching capacity in the church cannot do so under the influence of God’s Spirit as this would place the Spirit at contradiction with Himself.

Last updated on October 5, 2009 by Webmaster