9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; 10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. 11 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. 12 But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. 13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve. 14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. 15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety. (1 Timothy 2:9-15 KJV)
Men and Women in the Church
Paul gives this charge—that women who profess the Christian faith should be modest, sober, quiet, and submissive, as is fitting for their place (1 Timothy 2:9-15).
They must be modest in their clothing, avoiding gaudiness, vanity, or extravagance, for outward show often reflects the pride of the heart. Instead, they should adorn themselves with good works, which are the truest ornaments of a godly woman and of great worth in the sight of God (1 Peter 3:3-4). Those who profess godliness should, in their dress and conduct, act consistently with their faith. Rather than spending on luxurious clothing, they should devote their means to acts of piety and charity, which are rightly called “good works.”
Women must also learn the principles of their faith. They should learn of Christ and the Scriptures, for their gender does not excuse them from the knowledge necessary for salvation (Luke 10:39).
They must be quiet and submissive, not assuming authority over men. The reason given is that Adam was formed first, then Eve, signifying her subordination and dependence on him. She was made for him as a helper suitable to his needs (Genesis 2:18). Moreover, she was the first in the transgression—“The serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness” (2 Corinthians 11:3)—and it was part of the divine sentence, “Your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you” (Genesis 3:16).
Yet there is comfort in this word: “She shall be saved in childbearing if they continue in faith, love, holiness, and self-control” (1 Timothy 2:15). This may be understood as a reference to the Messiah, born of a woman, who would crush the serpent’s head (Genesis 3:15). Or it may mean that the hardship of childbearing will not hinder a woman’s salvation if she remains faithful, loving, and holy.
These teachings show the reach of Christianity—it speaks to both men and women, not only to their personal lives but even to their dress and behavior. Women, as well as men, are called to profess godliness, for they too are baptized and obligated to live in holiness. Many women in apostolic times were notable followers of Christ, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles.
Because women are more prone to excess in their appearance, Paul gives special caution here. The best ornaments for a Christian woman are good works that reflect her faith.
According to Paul, women should be learners but not public teachers in the church, for teaching is an act of authority. “I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence” (1 Timothy 2:12). Yet this does not prevent women from teaching their children at home. Timothy, from childhood, had known the Holy Scriptures—taught by his mother and grandmother (2 Timothy 3:15). Likewise, Aquila and Priscilla taught Apollos the way of God more accurately, but they did so privately (Acts 18:26).
Two reasons are given for man’s authority and woman’s subjection: Adam was formed first, and Eve was deceived and led him into transgression (1 Timothy 2:13-14; 1 Corinthians 11:9).
Though the difficulties of childbirth are great—part of the consequence of Eve’s sin—there is encouragement in the promise that she will be “saved through childbearing,” if she continues in faith, love, holiness, and self-control. Women in childbirth should by faith hold on to this promise for comfort in their time of need.