Harrison Woodard

Satan’s War On Women – From The Garden To Victory

Jesus Set Women Free – Why Do The Religious Insist On Bondage?

God Who Made THEM From The Beginning, Made THEM Male And Female. (Matthew 19:4)

When was the last time you studied the Creation Story in Genesis, or heard a sermon on it, or read some commentary on those events? The first few chapters are full of Revelation, establishing the foundation for the relationship between man and God, man and satan, and of course man and woman. If it has been a while, think about what you learned in the past, and consider the following questions.

• After Adam (Male and Female) was created, and God Blessed THEM in chapter 1, and then in chapter 2, declares that it is not good that man was alone. What transpired between chapter 1 & 2?

I am not a theologian. Please don’t call out the Spanish Inquisition just yet. This is just one man’s attempt to know God’s Word, since there has been little in religious literature that has explained this to my spirit’s satisfaction. Consider the language used initially in Genesis 1:27 – So God created man in His own image, in the image and likeness of God He created him; male and female He created them. And then in chapter 2, God forms a BODY out of the dust of the Earth (earthly materials, matter). But it wasn’t until He breathed in his spirit, that Adam became a living, speaking being – in a body. As a quick review, we are a spirit, with a soul, living in a body. Our spirits do not die, but bodies without a spirit, are dead. God is Spirit. And we are made in His image. However, after sin entered the Earth, mankind died spiritually – meaning cut off from the Life of God, with satan as our new spiritual daddy. (Isaiah 59:2, John 4:21-24, 8:42-44, Ephesians 2:1-10, Colossians 2:10-15)

Consider this point carefully, the spirits of Adam and Eve were created in Chapter 1, and were made in the image of God, a spirit, and then God Blessed them. I suspect in that creative moment, all the spirits of mankind were created in an instant in God’s mind, if not present in Heaven, waiting for their time to be born. Remember, God knows the beginning and the end. He is OUTSIDE OF TIME. (Ecclesiastes 12:7)

God Blessed them both, Be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it. Rule the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, and every creature that crawls on the earth. (Genesis 1:28) That was a huge task, but together, they could accomplish anything. That is still God’s Will for mankind, especially now that Jesus accomplished His task. The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows). (John 10:10)

He created a body first for Adam. Then placed Adam in the Garden He had prepared, to watch over and protect it. In the Garden there were trees that were pleasing to the sight, and also good for food. The Tree of Life was in the middle of the Garden, of which Adam could freely partake. And the tree of knowledge of good and evil, which was forbidden to consume, as it would cause death. But something changed with Adam, because God declared that it was NOT GOOD for Adam to be alone. Theologians have speculated that Adam had not protected the Garden, allowing satan to have access. Nor did Adam eat from the Tree of Life. Thus it is assumed that this was why the situation changed from VERY GOOD, to NOT GOOD in the eyes of God. And it is also why Eve was formed – to help Adam recover and turn back to God.

God made a body for Eve from Adam. Some have suggested that the original, physical Adam was both male and female, and then split. I do think that taking from Adam to create Eve has a much deeper spiritual meaning than anyone has realized. In marriage, the couple is said to be one flesh. Which of course takes us back to this point in time, and shows how permanent that marriage covenant should be. (1 Corinthians 11:11-12)

Our Help Is In The Name Of The Lord, Who Made Heaven And Earth. (Psalm 124:8)

• After Adam had named all the animals, it was determined that there was no helper for Adam who would complement him. KJV translates this as helpmeet. Religion seems to think this means servant, while the world considered women as property, not much more than cattle. What role does Eve play in the Garden? Is she a servant? Or a partner?

Eve was much more than just another animal. The word “help” does not imply an inferior status. It is used multiple times in the OT, including Psalm 121:2 My help cometh from the Lord. Consider also in John, Jesus describes the Holy Spirit as a HELPER, COUNSELOR, ADVOCATE, and STANDBY – among other names. That provides a fresh perspective on the proper role of a woman in marriage. The bible is quite clear that two are better than one – especially when they are empowered by the Holy Spirit, agree with each other, and God! (Ecclesiastes 4:7-12, Amos 3:3, Matthew 18:19-20, Matthew 19:1-12, John 14:26, Romans 12:9-21)

Woe to Him That Is Alone When He Falleth; For He Hath Not Another To Help Him Up. (Ecclesiastes 4:10)

• Satan was more crafty (deceptive) than all living things. This led to Eve’s deception and sin as she confessed to God. Adam, however, was not deceived, yet sinned anyway. He then blamed God, since the woman that He made for Adam, encouraged him to sin! Who committed the greater sin? (Genesis 3, 1 Timothy 2:13-14)

I suspect if you asked several average Christians, a large majority would blame Eve for the fall. Or at the very least, take a very dim view of her actions. Yet Eve confessed her sin. She admitted that satan had deceived her. Adam did not take responsibility. He was to “keep” the Garden, that meant remove those who do not belong. And he knew God’s Word concerning the forbidden “tree” and what would happen if he consumed its “fruit”. He was not deceived, yet still ate. And just to keep things simple – there was no “snake” or “apples” involved in the fall. If satan is the old serpent in Revelation, he is the serpent in the Garden. (Revelation 12:9) Trees are often used as spiritual representations of people, and people are said to produce fruit. (Matthew 7:15-20, Mark 8:22-25, John 15:1-10) Set that aside for another day, and let’s focus on what the Word says about the fall.

Adam	Eve
“Adam was not deceived,” —1 Timothy 2:14.	“The woman being [thoroughly] deceived was [literally, “became”] in the transgression.” Weymouth renders this, more accurately, “was thoroughly deceived, and so became involved” — 1 Timothy 2:14.
“In Adam all die,” —I Corinthians 15:22.	“the serpent beguiled [literally, “thoroughly deceived”] Eve through his subtlety.” —2 Corinthians 11 :3.
“By one man [person] sin entered into the world,” —Romans 5:12.
“Through the offense of one many be dead,” — Romans 5:15.
“—it was by one that sinned,” — Romans 5:16.
“The judgment was by one to condemnation,” — Romans 5:16.
“By one man’s offense death reigned,-“
[death reigned] “by one,” — Romans 5:17.
“By the offense of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation,” — Romans 5:18.
“By one man’s disobedience” — Romans 5:19.
“Death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam’s transgression, who is the figure of Him that was to come.” — Romans 5:14.

It should be carefully noted that when God was announcing the results of the sin, and the curse that was now on the world, there was a cause associated with both the plight of Adam and satan. Note: to satan – Because thou hast done this…(Genesis 3:14) And to Adam, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree… (Genesis 3:17) There is no such statement with regard to Eve. Instead, God simply explains satan’s hostility towards women. And how her “desire” toward Adam would result in man’s domination of women – not a blessing, but a curse. I will examine this verse in more detail shortly. Just recognize that God dealt with one of three slightly differently.

God created them, and later formed their bodies. He was there when they sinned. Why would they attempt to hide? It was fear, and in Adam’s case, rightly so. Hast thou eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat? (Genesis 3:11) Adam could have confessed his sin and sought forgiveness. Instead, he blamed God for the woman He formed for Adam! Compare their interaction with how God questioned Eve in Genesis 3:13. And the LORD God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. She told the truth. And apparently, that answer satisfied God as He turned to the serpent next.

• Adam and Eve were at one time surrounded by the Glory of God, and did not even notice that they were naked. Once they sinned, they then realized that they were naked and were ashamed. They used fig leaves for clothing. Then, they attempted to hide from God. Why were they hiding? Did they really think they could run from God? Or take care of themselves apart from Him? (Genesis 3)

God demonstrates His true character by providing animal skins for clothing. This would require animals to be killed, a sacrifice, to cover their flesh, and their sin. This would continue from this point until Jesus was crucified. And note carefully the timing. God announced the curse, or what was their new reality. He did not curse them. Their choices brought the curse upon them. (Proverbs 26:2) But in His mercy, He promised a Savior, and a way to remain at peace with God.

An Undeserved Curse Will Not Land On Its Intended Victim. (Proverbs 26:2)

• Did God curse Adam, Eve, satan, and the Earth? OR, did He declare that the curse was the result of their actions? (Genesis 3)

I want to focus on Eve, and what her new reality was living in the now cursed world. There was hostility between her and satan, and between her seed and satan’s seed. Knowing that the Savior would come via a woman, meant that satan would spend extra time making their lives that much more challenging. He was god of this world, so he would seek to make pregnancy as difficult as possible. There would be pain, and even some suffering when children were delivered. Although much joy after the child is born. (John 16:21, 2 Corinthians 4:4)

And then comes one of the most misunderstood lines in the Bible – and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee. (Genesis 3:16) Keep in mind this is God stating a new reality. He is NOT cursing Eve. It is NOT His desire for Adam (MAN) to rule over Eve (WOMAN). Just two chapters earlier they were ONE. (Genesis 1:27) So what does this verse truly mean?

Take a look at what various commentators have written.

“Desire here expresses that reverential longing with which the weaker [woman] looks up, to the stronger.” – Harold Browne

“Woman is to desire man’s society, notwithstanding the pain and subjection which are the result.” – William E. Addis

“Thou shalt be possessed by passionate desire for him.” – August Wilhelm Karl Knobel

“She was punished with a desire bordering upon disease.” – Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch

“The special punishment of the woman consists in the evils by which she is oppressed in her sexual vocation, in the position she occupies in her relation to man,” – and yet, doubtless he would scarcely hesitate to pronounce such a relation “Holy Matrimony!” – August Dillmann

“She shall desire his cohabitation, thereby at the same time increasing her liability to the pain of childbearing.” – Samuel Rolles Driver

“This form of speech is . . . as if He [God] said, ‘Thou shalt desire nothing but what thy husband wishes’. She had, indeed, previously been subject to her husband, but that was a liberal and gentle subjection; now, however, she is cast into servitude.” In other words, Calvin would have us believe God first ordained marriage, but afterwards substituted “servitude.” – John Calvin

In their commentary declare of the husband that he shall have the power “to control thy desires,” but we have never known of a husband who could do more than control the outward acts of his wife. – Simon Patrick and Robert Lowth

“Thy desires shall be referred to thy husband’s will and pleasure, to grant or deny them as he sees fit.” – Matthew Poole

“It is a part of her punishment, and a part from which even God’s mercy will not exempt her . . . Thou shalt not be able to shun the great pain and peril of child-bearing, ‘thy desire shall be to thy husband.’ . . . Subjection to the will of her husband is one part of her curse; and so very capricious is this will often, that a sorer punishment no human being can well have.” – Adam Clarke

“She is here put into a state of subjection. The whole sex, which by creation was equal with man, is, for sin, made inferior, and forbidden to usurp authority, 1 Tim. 2:11, 12. The wife particularly is hereby put under the dominion of her husband, and is not sui juris—at her own disposal, of which see an instance in that law, Num. 30:6-8, where the husband is empowered, if he please, to disannul the vows made by the wife.” – Matthew Henry

This list of comments represents some of the greatest religious minds of the last 500 years. And yet look at how they spin Genesis 3:16. We are to believe that God made Adam, both male and female He created them, blessed them equally. He placed Adam in the Garden with a clear mandate to protect the Garden. But then, God noted the “Very Good” had become “Not Good” so God then prepared a body for Eve and sent her to “help” Adam. But then an intruder, a spiritual being that Adam allowed in the Garden, deceived Eve into eating the forbidden fruit. And even though Adam KNEW it was wrong, he too ate the fruit. When confronted by God, Adam blamed God for giving him Eve, who supplied the fruit to Adam. While Eve told the truth – she was deceived and ate. God lays out the new reality for all three. The Earth was now cursed, with a new spiritual father. But in this darkest of hours, there was a ray of hope. A Savior would come through Eve (Woman). While Adam contended with the curse, dealing with thistles and thorns, and working to scratch out a living in the new reality, Eve would be contending with satan’s continual war on women, hoping to stop the coming Savior.

But none of those elite theologians recognize what a wonderful promise this is for women. Nor do they see satan’s role in the difficulty that would now face women during the entire process of having children. They somehow see this as a great curse, and add the next verse to it. Meaning, that if that was not bad enough, women were now nothing more than a sexual slave, or servant to men. Since they are all men, its quite convenient for them. And just look at the last 6,000 years, women have generally been treated as cattle, slaves, or property by men. Even among the religious, there is little relief, until Jesus came along and confirmed their value and purpose. And you would think that religious leaders, with all this awful stuff facing women because of the curse, might see its end when the curse was broken. Paul wrote, Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: (Galatians 3:13-14) Does that not set Believing women free from the curse?

Where did this hostility towards women originate? With satan of course, often operating through men, even religious ones. Good Christian men have mishandled the Word, and divided the Body of Christ. Because if we take Paul’s suggestions literally and for all time, women have NO role in worship. Even education is limited to other women, and boys under the age of 13. But that is not the true meaning of Paul’s writing. And there is no foundation for this abuse of women in Genesis, and certainly none demonstrated by Jesus. He routinely had women prophesy about Him in the Temple, praise God publicly in the Synagogue, follow him as disciples, support His ministry, and even evangelize a whole village! Jesus saw women as living, speaking spirits, and eventually as parts of the Body of Christ, where the divisions of the past no longer exist. Believers are ONE In Christ Jesus! So why does religion want to enforce these demonic ideas on the Church and divide the Body of Christ? (Matthew 27:55-56, Luke 2:36-38, Luke 8:1-3, Luke 13:10-17, John 4:4-42, Galatians 3:26-29)

Satan’s Best Weapon – Religious Tradition

If one carefully consumes God’s Revelation given through Paul, you will notice how it builds Believers up. Taking them first from spiritually dead, to being made alive and sitting in Heavenly Places IN CHRIST. All those earthly divisions disappear. Believers are still individuals – God TRANSFORMS, religion conforms. He likes bricks, not stones fashioned by man. He created individuals, and gave them the Grace for the Good Works He has planned. And God places folks in the Body where it pleases HIM. So why does religion thwart this perfect process? They decide who can teach or preach, without regard to God’s calling on individual lives. How does that help the Body? If the religious determine that women can only be knee caps in the Body, surely other parts will suffer. Let’s let God be God, and build the Body as He knows best! (Exodus 20:24-25, Romans 12:1-18, Ephesians 2:1-22, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31, 1 Peter 2:1-9)

Its no surprise that pagans treat women poorly, but it is odd that Christians or Jews, people who KNOW God, or at least should, would behave just as poorly, if not worse! Before Christianity came along, Jewish religious leaders were greatly embellishing Eve’s “curse”. You can see an example of this in “The Ten Curses of Eve” (Avot De Rabbi Nathan B 42, Pirkei De Rabbi Eliezer 14, B. Eruvin 100b)

The Ten Curses Of Eve

The first is menstruation, when she is driven from her house and banned from her husband.

The second is that she gives birth after nine months.

The third is that she nurses for two years.

The fourth is that her husband rules over her.

The fifth is that he is jealous of her if she speaks with any other man.

The sixth is that she ages quickly.

The seventh is that she ceases to give birth while men never cease being able to beget children.

The eighth is that she stays in the home and does not show herself in public like a man.

The ninth is that when she goes out into the marketplace her head has to be covered like a mourner. That is why women precede the bier, saying: “We have brought death upon all the inhabitants of the world.”

The tenth is that if she was upright, her husband buries her. For we find that this was the case with our ancestors: our father Abraham buried Sarah our mother. Isaac buried Rebecca our mother. Jacob buried Rachel and Leah.

As Paul was sharing his Revelation of the Body of Christ, the Church was spreading throughout the Empire like a wildfire. Women of all stations were attracted to the Love of God, and the Liberty they had in Christ. Many were placed in leadership positions. For instance, Paul identifies 7 women as laborers in the Lord just in Romans 16. (Romans 16:1-20) But the growth created problems for the empire, where men were responsible for the religion of the household. Pagans were upset because of loss of revenue, and because many pagan rituals depended upon participation of promiscuous women. And of course the Judaizers, who as we have just seen, had a very low opinion of women in general, hated the Liberty Believers had in Christ, and were especially offended by women in a leadership role. You can therefore imagine the tough position Timothy and Paul were in, with all these forces in play. And the threat of serious persecution from Rome growing every single day.

Genesis 3:16 – It All Depends On The Translation Of The Last Sentence

Yet your desire and craving will be for your husband, and he will rule over you. (Genesis 3:16 AMP)

and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee. (Genesis 3:16 KJV)

and toward thy husband is thy desire, and he doth rule over thee. (Genesis 3:16 YLT)

There is an interesting word in this verse (Teshuqua H8669). The entire meaning of this final line depends on an accurate translation of this word. A careful review of ancient translations show that the meaning has devolved over time, likely the result of religious thinking. And the idea of desire, or lust, crept in and took over, causing all types of trouble in the Body of Christ. Note the chart below.

What is said (typically) of Christ must have the same meaning in Abel or Eve! But what do the ancient versions say? How do they translate “teshuqa”? we find that every version up to one hundred years after Christ, e.g., the Septuagint Greek, the Syriac Peshito, the Samaritan and Old Latin, all render the word as “turning.” God said that Eve was “turning” to Adam; that Abel was “turning” to Cain, and (Song of Solomon 7:10) that Christ is “turning” toward His Bride, the church.

The Magna Charta of Woman – By Jessie Penn-Lewis – 1919

Translating that last verse correctly yields a much different meaning, and clears up several misconceptions. Adam had turned away from God. Consider the temptation offered by satan, you will be like God. (Genesis 3:5) They literally could get no closer to God than they were at that moment – made in His image, crowned with His glory, except in one way – the ability to dominate another. Or to exercise authority over another person. For Adam, this meant Eve. Note here the seed of man’s inhumanity towards man. And satan would inspire mankind to do the most terrible things in exercising his desire to “be like God” and dominate other men and women.

So here we have God WARNING Eve not to turn away from God to Adam, or else, he will dominate you. (Genesis 3:16) And you can see the truth of this throughout history. There is no doubt that men are generally bigger and stronger than women. And that the two were meant to complement each other, not be at odds. Nor have one lord over the other. Jesus told His followers, He who is greatest among you shall be your servant. (Matthew 23:8-11) Whoever will humble himself therefore and become like this little child [trusting, lowly, loving, forgiving] is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 18:1-5) These were instructions to His disciples, and yet they also apply to Believers in the Church, and at Home. This teaching on humility was repeated multiple times, with different examples.

Jesus On Humility – There Is Only One Head In The Body Of Christ

4 Whoever will humble himself therefore and become like this little child [trusting, lowly, loving, forgiving] is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 18:1-5) AMP

25 And Jesus called them to Him and said, You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men hold them in subjection [tyrannizing over them]. 26 Not so shall it be among you; but whoever wishes to be great among you must be your servant, (Matthew 20:25–26) AMP

8 But you are not to be called rabbi (teacher), for you have one Teacher and you are all brothers. 9 And do not call anyone [in the church] on earth father, for you have one Father, Who is in heaven. 10 And you must not be called masters (leaders), for you have one Master (Leader), the Christ. 11 He who is greatest among you shall be your servant. 12 Whoever exalts himself [with haughtiness and empty pride] shall be humbled (brought low), and whoever humbles himself [whoever has a modest opinion of himself and behaves accordingly] shall be raised to honor. (Matthew 23:1–39) AMP

33 And they arrived at Capernaum; and when [they were] in the house, He asked them, What were you discussing and arguing about on the road? 34 But they kept still, for on the road they had discussed and disputed with one another as to who was the greatest. 35 And He sat down and called the Twelve [apostles], and He said to them, If anyone desires to be first, he must be last of all, and servant of all. (Mark 9:33–42) AMP

41 And when the other ten [apostles] heard it, they began to be indignant with James and John. 42 But Jesus called them to [Him] and said to them, You know that those who are recognized as governing and are supposed to rule the Gentiles (the nations) lord it over them [ruling with absolute power, holding them in subjection], and their great men exercise authority and dominion over them. 43 But this is not to be so among you; instead, whoever desires to be great among you must be your servant, 44 And whoever wishes to be most important and first in rank among you must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man came not to have service rendered to Him, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for (instead of) many. (Mark 10:35–45) AMP

11 For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled (ranked below others who are honored or rewarded), and he who humbles himself (keeps a modest opinion of himself and behaves accordingly) will be exalted (elevated in rank). (Luke 14:7–11) AMP

25 But Jesus said to them, The kings of the Gentiles are deified by them and exercise lordship [ruling as emperor-gods] over them; and those in authority over them are called benefactors and well-doers. 26 But this is not to be so with you; on the contrary, let him who is the greatest among you become like the youngest, and him who is the chief and leader like one who serves. 27 For who is the greater, the one who reclines at table (the master), or the one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at table? But I am in your midst as One Who serves. (Luke 22:24–30) AMP

Related Verses – Liberty, Love, and Equity

29 And He Who sent Me is ever with Me; My Father has not left Me alone, for I always do what pleases Him. 30 As He said these things, many believed in Him [trusted, relied on, and adhered to Him]. 31 So Jesus said to those Jews who had believed in Him, If you abide in My word [hold fast to My teachings and live in accordance with them], you are truly My disciples. 32 And you will know the Truth, and the Truth will set you free. (John 8:1-59) AMP

IN [this] freedom Christ has made us free [and completely liberated us]; stand fast then, and do not be hampered and held ensnared and submit again to a yoke of slavery [which you have once put off]. (Galatians 5:1) AMP

4 Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy, is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily. 5 It is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride); it is not rude (unmannerly) and does not act unbecomingly. Love (God’s love in us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way, for it is not self-seeking; it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no account of the evil done to it [it pays no attention to a suffered wrong]. 6 It does not rejoice at injustice and unrighteousness, but rejoices when right and truth prevail. 7 Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes are fadeless under all circumstances, and it endures everything [without weakening]. (1 Corinthians 13:1-13) AMP

I THEREFORE, the prisoner for the Lord, appeal to and beg you to walk (lead a life) worthy of the [divine] calling to which you have been called [with behavior that is a credit to the summons to God’s service, 2 Living as becomes you] with complete lowliness of mind (humility) and meekness (unselfishness, gentleness, mildness), with patience, bearing with one another and making allowances because you love one another. 3 Be eager and strive earnestly to guard and keep the harmony and oneness of [and produced by] the Spirit in the binding power of peace. (Ephesians 4:1-7) AMP

5 Let this same attitude and purpose and [humble] mind be in you which was in Christ Jesus: [Let Him be your example in humility:] 6 Who, although being essentially one with God and in the form of God [possessing the fullness of the attributes which make God God], did not think this equality with God was a thing to be eagerly grasped or retained, 7 But stripped Himself [of all privileges and rightful dignity], so as to assume the guise of a servant (slave), in that He became like men and was born a human being. (Philippians 2:1-11) AMP

11 [In this new creation all distinctions vanish.] There is no room for and there can be neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, [nor difference between nations whether alien] barbarians or Scythians [who are the most savage of all], nor slave or free man; but Christ is all and in all [everything and everywhere, to all men, without distinction of person]. 12 Clothe yourselves therefore, as God’s own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper]. 13 Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference (a grievance or complaint) against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has [freely] forgiven you, so must you also [forgive]. 14 And above all these [put on] love and enfold yourselves with the bond of perfectness [which binds everything together completely in ideal harmony]. (Colossians 3:1-25) AMP

Examine almost any denomination, even independent churches, and you will see folks who have exalted themselves, they have given out lofty titles, and they do lord over the people like a monarch. That is not the way its suppose to be. The Church is compared to a Body, with Jesus as the Head – and there cannot be more than one head. Note carefully how the Body is constructed. God sets the members, every one of them in the body, as it pleases Him. (1 Corinthians 12:18) But modern churches place preachers, hire staff, appoint people with little concern for what God wants. And then folks wonder why their church is one bad offering away from closing.

And what about the home? Folks take a couple of verses out of context and assume its scriptural for a husband to dominate his wife. How can that POSSIBLY be true with the above Scriptures in mind? They apply to the Body of Christ, AND to husbands and wives. Consider the relationship with Jesus, who is ONE WITH GOD, and it is written the Head of Jesus is God. Jesus even states, I and my Father are One. (John 10:30) And in Ephesians, be imitators of God as dear children. Walk in love. (Ephesians 5:1-2) And if correctly translated, Being submissive to one another in reverence of God. The wives to their own husbands as to the Lord. (Ephesians 5:21-22) Remember, submissive is yielding, compliant, and accommodating. Submission has to do with the heart. It does not mean mindless obedience. And don’t forget the first verse in that passage – submissive to one another. Who does that sound like? Come unto me, all ye labouring and burdened ones, and I will give you rest, take up my yoke upon you, and learn from me, because I am meek and humble in heart, and ye shall find rest to your souls, for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30)

And one final passage to consider in light of what we have learned so far. Head is an interesting word. In English it can mean the physical head on your shoulders, or the mind and mental capabilities, as in “use your head!” It can also mean someone in charge, like the head coach. Or it could be the position such as “head of the line”. The key here is to remember words can have a variety of meanings in English, as well as other languages like Greek. So when you read, But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God (1 Corinthians 11:3) – what does that mean to you? Most folks IMMEDIATELY latch on to the thought that man is the LEADER over the woman. But that doesn’t work when you get to the end, because Jesus said Himself, I and the Father are one. (John 10:30) And, whoever has seen me, has seen the Father. (John 14:9) Of course for Believers (both men and women), he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. (1 Corinthians 6:17) At that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you. (John 14:20) Note the consistency of thought. Head, in this instance cannot mean leadership. Look back to what God told Eve, if she turned from God to Adam, he would dominate her. After Jesus’ resurrection, there is absolutely no reason for man or woman to dominate the other. Or to dominate somebody else based on sex, age, social status, or race. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:28) We are ONE in Christ!

So what is the Spirit trying to communicate with the use of HEAD in the NT? Head can also mean the origin, or the foundation. Paul writes that Believers are no longer outsiders, but members of the household of God. And we are perfectly fitted stones, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus the chief cornerstone. In Him, the whole structure is bound together, growing into a Holy Temple. (Ephesians 5:19-22) Note that God uses stones, not bricks, or stones that have been fashioned by men. He places them where they will be perfectly fitted. Even though written to Jewish Believers, Peter writes something very similar, like Living Stones be built into a spiritual house. (1 Peter 2:3-9) In a stone house, it is critical that each one be perfectly fit, and able to endure the pressure as all the rest. They all depend on each other and especially the cornerstone, to endure and remain steadfast. This idea is improved upon by the concept of the Body of Christ, with Jesus as the Head. In Colossians, Paul writes, walk in union with Jesus, having your roots firmly planted in Him. (Colossians 2:6-10) He also warns folks to stay away from philosophy and religious traditions, knowing that you are complete in Christ. (Psalm 118:20-29, Matthew 21:42-44, Romans 9:33)

1 Corinthians was a book about correction. There were divisions among the people. Judaizers and pagans were disruptive, and wanted to reimagine the church and add their former beliefs, which were often quite hostile towards women – see the 10 curses above. This is obvious at the beginning of the letter, where Paul has been informed, that there are contentions and wrangling and factions among you. (1 Corinthians 1:11) From the beginning, Paul is going to answer questions, correcting their behavior where necessary. With that in mind, consider the passage in 1 Corinthians 11. What is the subject of this chapter? Remember, chapters and verses were added much later. Look for passages that are clear contradictions of Paul’s Revelation, as these are most likely not from Paul, but from Judaizers, from the contentious – lovers of strife in Corinth. Such is clearly the case 1 Corinthians 14, where Paul quotes them. Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church. (1 Corinthians 14:34-35) This is clearly NOT Paul’s thoughts. He knew the Law better than most. And He KNEW the Lord. There was NO shame for women to speak in Church. The only correction Paul had regarding spiritual gifts in a service, was that things be done decently and in order! And yet ministers and theologians have made these two lines their foundation for excluding women from ministry, even God-called, Anointed women.

Long-haired Freaky People Need Not Apply

In 1 Corinthians 11, Paul spends much effort discussing the purpose of hair. It seems somewhat out of place in a discussion of praying covered or uncovered in church. At one point he seems to suggest that it is a dishonor for a man to have long hair. This seems quite strange writing this to a church in Corinth, whose ancestors were commonly called long-haired Achaeans. And in Israel, Nazirites, like Samson, could not cut their hair. There is no natural dishonor for men with long hair in either Jewish or pagan tradition. Paul is again countering Judaizers in Corinth who resented the Liberty Believers have in Christ – especially women. A better way to read verse 10 – a woman should have “authority over her own head” to veil or unveil as she judged best. Which makes sense when you consider everything Paul has taught about the Body of Christ. But he was still dealing with folks, Judaizers and pagans, who had objections. The veil was a major stumbling block, so Paul attempts to reason with them by explaining that if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering. (1 Corinthians 11:15) And his conclusion, regardless as to what has been done in other religious situations, there is no custom in our churches that women must wear a veil. (Numbers 6:1-21)

Do you notice the clear contradiction between chapter 11 and 14 of 1 Corinthians? One says women should stay quiet, and its a “shame” for women to speak. This is CLEARLY the thoughts of Judaizers, and Paul correctly condemns, questioning its ultimate source. But in chapter 11 women are praying in church, but the argument is not about silencing women, but what they should wear to participate. I will not fall on a sword, but the more I study and meditate on 1 Corinthians, especially chapter 11, the more I believe that like other chapters, Paul is repeating the issues raised by Judaizers in Corinth. This is not as clear as others. Consider two key verses that seem to trump the whole passage – Be ye imitators of me, as I imitate the Lord. (1 Corinthians 11:1) It is strengthened later. Imitate God as dear children. (Ephesians 5:1) Can you imagine Jesus telling women to shut up in a church or synagogue, or being concerned with what they wear when they pray? Or be concerned what messengers, or spies, report? That’s for the contentious, or those fond of strife. Where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. (James 3:16) Believers, even women, are NEW CREATIONS IN CHRIST. And called to, Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage. (Galatians 5:1)

Paul even talks about false brethren secretly brought in who came in by stealth to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage. (Galatians 2:4) That may be what was happening in Corinth. It certainly was not because of “angels” – as the word can be translated messengers (or spies) – which makes far more sense in context. Believers are free from religious bondage. We may have to contend with some cultural bondage, but we are free there as well. Just live the love life. Do everything for the glory of God, seeking not to offend anyone. (1 Corinthians 10:31-33)

What’s A Wife To Do?

So with Believers, what is marriage? It can be as simple as this: A man and a woman, who both Love the Lord with all their heart, and love each other, as they love themselves. They are both committed to the Lord, and to each other, because there is no LOVE without commitment. They submit to God, and to each other in Love. And remember submission is a heart thing. If both are led by the spirit, they should never act selfish, but seek what is good for the other. Man is the Head of his wife, which requires him to be a protector, and to nourish and lift up his wife. This is where Adam “missed it” and did not prepare Eve, or protect her or the Garden. Women should reverence their husband, help him become a strong man of God. The couple should complement and challenge each other to grow in the faith and wisdom of the Lord. Because two committed Believers are far more powerful than one. They should be not only one flesh, but one with each other spiritually, as with the Lord, and imitators of the Father. Like the disciples in the upper room, of one accord – united in faith, because when two or more are together in Jesus’ name, He is there as well. (Matthew 18:19-20, Matthew 22:34-40, Acts 2:1, Romans 13:9-10, Ephesians 5:1-2)

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21 Submit yourselves one to another out of reverence for Christ.
22 Wives likewise to their husbands as to the Lord,
23 because a husband is the head of his wife even as Christ is head of the church, his body, which he saves.
24 But as the church submits itself to Christ, so also wives to their husbands in everything.
25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself for her,
26 in order that after cleansing her in the bath of baptism, he might sanctify her by his word,
27 so as to present her to himself, the church glorified, without spot or wrinkle or any such blemish; but on the contrary holy and faultless.
28 That is how husbands ought to love their wives, as they love their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself.
29 For no man ever yet hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it as Christ does the church;
30 for we are members of his body.
31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
32 There is a deep mystery here—I am speaking of Christ and his church.
33 But as for you individually, you must each one of you love his own wife exactly as if she were yourself; and the wife, on her part, should reverence her husband.

— Ephesians 5:21-33 CTNT

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The passage above is one of best ones at defining a marriage IN CHRIST. Men and Women are different, and God makes each one for a special purpose, and then provides the Grace necessary to perform the Good Works He has planned.

Rarely does a day pass that I do not read some sort of statement condemning women in ministry. Either on social media, on a blog, in a video, or on television. Its argued from authority, often quoting 1 Corinthians 14:34-35 and/or 1 Timothy 2:11-12. And that is supposed to settle the subject and silence those “uppity women” who want to “usurp the authority” of men. Poppycock. These are often men who likely mean well, but don’t KNOW GOD or understand how things work in the Body of Christ. And like most, do not take the time to closely examine God’s Word, knowing that though it was perfect in its original form, has been influenced by religious traditions, male bias, and just poor translations. And if translators are working from a bad translation, and not the original languages, the challenges grow exponentially. And then the true enemy comes along to steal the Word, or sow doubt and confusion. Just because theologians have believed/taught the same thing for 1,500 years, does not make it true. God’s WORD is TRUE, even if every man is a liar. When you stumble across an idea or verse that is at odds with Paul’s Revelation to the Body, don’t be afraid to question. Look up the verse in the original languages. Seek out opposing voices. Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you to the TRUTH. Who cares if 90% of the religious folks agree, if they have mishandled the Word? Think of the damage done just from Adam and Eve’s story. At the very beginning, religion gave women a huge disadvantage. And it only got worse down through the centuries.

I hope this has been helpful. Even if you disagree, please know that I love you in the Lord. I also challenge everyone to ALWAYS study the Word. The moment you think you know it all, is the moment you are in the greatest peril. There is still plenty of Revelation in His Word. God’s Word is alive, and full of power. You will never exhaust the Wisdom found there.

God Bless You!

Image Source: Adam & Eve Illustrations: Sweet Publishing / FreeBibleimages.org.; Top Image – Bibleversestogo.com; Photo (Young Woman) Random Face Generator

Related Links
Can A Woman Preach? – What Does The Bible Say? – When it comes to women in ministry, what matters is what God wants, and we can find that in His Word.

Women Pastors – Paul’s Advice, Or Liberty For Female Ministers? – A review of Paul’s writing concerning women.
Thou Shalt Not Wear Short Skirts – A blog post on the overemphasis religion places on outward appearances.
Jesus And Women – Key moments when Jesus interacted with, or ministered to women.