Man and Woman in Biblical Perspective, Part Two
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Man and Woman in Biblical Perspective, Part Two

From Series: Firm Foundation, Volume 4

1 Corinthians 11:4-16  (ID: 1689)

What is the significance of the head covering to which Paul referred in 1 Corinthians 11:4-16? Does this passage even have any relevance in the contemporary Church? Alistair Begg explores this Scripture with us, explaining that while the principle of headship is timeless, as is the instinctive understanding of masculinity and femininity, cultural expression is variable.

4Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head, 5but every wife2 who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, since it is the same as if her head were shaven. 6For if a wife will not cover her head, then she should cut her hair short. But since it is disgraceful for a wife to cut off her hair or shave her head, let her cover her head. 7For a man ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God, but woman is the glory of man. 8For man was not made from woman, but woman from man. 9Neither was man created for woman, but woman for man. 10That is why a wife ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels.3 11Nevertheless, in the Lord woman is not independent of man nor man of woman; 12for as woman was made from man, so man is now born of woman. And all things are from God. 13Judge for yourselves: is it proper for a wife to pray to God with her head uncovered? 14Does not nature itself teach you that if a man wears long hair it is a disgrace for him, 15but if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For her hair is given to her for a covering. 16If anyone is inclined to be contentious, we have no such practice, nor do the churches of God.



Alistair Begg