An Exegetical Study of 1 Corinthians 14:33b-36

Abstract

In this exegetical study, S. W. Becker analyzes 1 Corinthians 14:33b–36, focusing on Paul’s directive that women remain silent in worship assemblies. Becker explores the grammatical ambiguity of the passage and its contextual implications, arguing that Paul’s command is not an absolute prohibition but a situational application of the biblical principle of subjection. He contrasts this with chapter 11, where women are depicted as praying and prophesying, suggesting that Paul’s concern in chapter 14 centers on maintaining order and respecting divinely instituted roles during charismatic activities like prophecy and judgment. Becker emphasizes that Paul’s instruction reflects the law’s broader teaching on gender roles, not cultural bias. The essay concludes that while social contexts may change, divine principles remain immutable and must guide Christian conduct in worship. Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).