In this study of 1 Corinthians 11, we tackle a common question regarding the head covering: Is this command restricted only to the formal assembly of the church, or does it apply to a Christian's everyday life whenever they pray or prophesy?
We examine the internal evidence of the text, compare it with the instructions found in 1 Corinthians 14, and look at biblical examples of prophesying outside of a worship service.
In this video, we cover:
- Prophesying Outside the Church: Exploring examples like Philip’s four daughters and the prophet Agabus to see if prophecy was limited to the assembly.
- The "Assembly Only" Position: Evaluating the transition between 1 Corinthians 11:2-16 and the instructions on the Lord's Supper starting in verse 17.
- The "Silent in the Churches" Conflict: How the command for women to keep silent in the assembly (1 Corinthians 14:34) impacts our understanding of women praying or prophesying in chapter 11.
- Practical Challenges: Addressing the difficulties of a "non-restricted" view, such as men in hazardous jobs wearing hard hats or women needing a covering for spontaneous prayer.
- The Custom of the Churches: What does it mean that the "churches of God" have no such practice, and how does that influence the context of the gathering?.
Key Verses:
- 1 Corinthians 11:2-16
- 1 Corinthians 14:3-4; 26-35
- Acts 21:9-11
- Acts 4:7-8
Conclusion:
While the topic is complex and good arguments can be made for both sides, we look at why a non-restricted view seems to align most closely with the wording of the text, while remaining patient with those who reach a different conclusion.