Cheryl

Yes, I do believe that we can seriously consider other interpretations. We can do this especially when the meaning is not apparent anywhere in the context.

The biggest example of this is 1 Cor. 14:34, 35. Here Paul refers to a “law” that isn’t found anywhere in scripture. Then in verse 36, Paul contradicts this “law”. Since Paul is contradicting the “law” we need to look outside Paul’s writings to find the “law” in effect in his time that restricted women’s speaking in the assembly. Having to go outside the passage for complete understanding has made this particular passage a very difficult passage for a few thousand years.

Don, I certainly didn’t want to say that your thoughts had no validity at all. I was just giving more validity to Paul’s reference to angels and authority in the letter. If this reference gives reason for women to have authority, then I tend to rest there and not look for further options.

Blessings!
Cheryl