gengwall

Another perspective for fun or discussion?

Verses 11-15 seem to share a progressive theme but also seem to have disconnects. It is almost as if Paul is breaking down a general issue thread into its bulleted components (as we often do in these threads when we quote back and deconstruct another person’s post). Although there is some common ground throughout the list, there are 4 distinct questions/problems being addressed.

Timothy: Women have never been taught before or allowed to be in the service with men. We all are kind of unsure how to proceed. Moreover, we have some trouble makers in the bunch. Right now, there is a lot of commotion.
Paul: A woman should receive teaching with a peaceful and submissive attitude (as should anyone) (vs 11).
Timothy: It gets worse. Some of the women in the congregation who have been influenced by the Dianic cult here in Ephesus are not only intermingling their false teachings with the gospel but are actually taking a domineering position over the men. This domination has even been violent at times, and I hear rumors about sexually perverse practices taking place [see definition of authenteo and research on Diana worship]. These are women in the congregation, not outsiders!
Paul: I do not allow such a woman to teach or to dominate a man (or anyone else for that matter), but maintain she should strive for peacefulness. (again, as we all should) (vs 12)
Timothy: I even have one of these Dianists who is claiming that Eve was created first and bore Adam, and that Eve and Diana are actually one in the same.
Paul: Adam was formed first, then Eve (duh). Now Adam was not deceived, but this woman, being deceived, has fallen into sin. (vs. 13-14)
Timothy: Is there any hope for this woman?
Paul: She will be saved through The Birth, if they [?still not sure who “they” is?] continue in all seriousness to act with faith, charity, and holiness. (vs. 15).