One deeply concerning abomination that has stealthily woven its way into many pulpits is the practice of women preaching or serving as ordained ministers. This practice starkly contravenes the explicit teachings of Scripture, which clearly forbid it. While contemporary culture may champion this rebellion as a form of “progress” or liberation, the eternal Word of God categorizes it as a serious act of spiritual insubordination—an abomination in His sight.
By Evangelist Peter Gee
The Church today engages in the sin of abomination by ordaining women to serve as pastors, openly defying and rebelling against Christ and His Word.
In an era where the boundaries between the sacred and the profane increasingly blur, the Church of Jesus Christ faces a critical imperative to reaffirm its unwavering commitment to His Word. One deeply concerning abomination that has stealthily woven its way into many pulpits is the practice of women preaching or serving as ordained ministers. This practice starkly contravenes the explicit teachings of Scripture, which clearly forbid it. While contemporary culture may champion this rebellion as a form of “progress” or liberation, the eternal Word of God categorizes it as a serious act of spiritual insubordination—an abomination in His sight.
Our devoted obedience to His Word is not merely a choice; it stands as a steadfast command that is essential for the integrity of the faith. In a world awash with relativism, we must remain vigilant, firmly anchored in divine truth, and protect ourselves from drifting away from the doctrines revealed to us.
In the book of Revelation, specifically 2:19-21, Jesus Christ—risen, ascended, and glorified—issues a stern and sobering warning to any congregation that permits a woman to usurp authority by preaching or teaching contrary to His ordained order. He commends the Church for its notable works, abundant love, diligent service, steadfast faith, and remarkable patience, acknowledging that its latter endeavors surpass the earlier ones. However, He follows this praise with a striking admonition: “Nevertheless, I have a few things against you, because you allow that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess, to teach and seduce My servants…” (Revelation 2:19-20, NKJV).
This warning resonates with profound clarity and seriousness: Christ takes issue with any church that condones a woman assuming the role of teacher or prophetess—a contemporary embodiment of Jezebel—leading His people astray from the pure doctrines of Scripture. The implications of this passage compel us to reflect deeply on our practices and prioritize adherence to God’s design for church leadership, ensuring that we remain aligned with His will and purpose as laid out in His Word. Upholding these principles is not merely a matter of tradition; it is a faithful response to His sovereign calling for His Church, underscoring our collective commitment to spiritual integrity and divine truth.
1. Christ Himself Condemns the Jezebel Spirit
In a poignant address to the Church in Thyatira, Jesus delivered a stern rebuke not for their lack of works, love, or service, but for their alarming tolerance of a woman wielding spiritual authority—a figure leading believers down the treacherous path of compromise. The ‘Jezebel spirit’ serves as a powerful symbol of rebellion against divine order, emanating from the notorious Jezebel, a queen of the Old Testament who notoriously led Israel into a destructive cycle of idolatry and immorality. Her sinister influence encompassed not only blatant acts of moral decay but also propagated false teachings that tainted and corrupted the hearts of God’s servants.
“And I gave her time to repent of her sexual immorality, and she did not repent.” (Revelation 2:21)
Here, we confront a sobering reality: Jesus, reigning in glory and honor, is profoundly grieved when His churches tolerate the very things He explicitly forbids—women teaching, leading, and seducing His flock with rebellious and errant doctrines. To dismiss this grave matter is to invite His righteous Judgment upon the Church.
2. Paul’s Command Stands: Women Must Remain Silent in Church
The Apostle Paul, inspired by the Holy Spirit, delivers a clear and unambiguous directive: “Let a woman learn in silence with all submission. And I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence.” (1 Timothy 2:11-12). This instruction is not merely a cultural guideline; it is a profound principle deeply rooted in the very order of creation.
Paul emphasizes this divine order by stating, “For Adam was formed first, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman, being deceived, fell into transgression.” (1 Timothy 2:13-14). Here, the subordination of women to men is framed not as a form of punishment, but rather as a protective measure instituted by God. This divine arrangement serves to uphold His glory and safeguard the Church from the insidious threat of spiritual deception—the same deception that the Jezebel spirit cunningly seeks to exploit. Through this lens, the role of women is seen as a sacred position that honors both God’s design and the integrity of the faith community.
3. Paul Commands Women’s Silence for the Sake of Order
In his letter to the Corinthians, the Apostle Paul writes a directive that has sparked much debate and discussion over the years: “Let your women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says… For it is shameful for women to speak in church.” (1 Corinthians 14:34-35).
This passage can be difficult for modern readers to digest, as it seemingly endorses a hierarchical structure that elevates male authority while minimizing female participation in spiritual matters. The term “shameful,” as used by Paul, emphasizes his view that the silence of women during worship is not merely a cultural preference but a divine command meant to uphold order within the church assembly.
Understanding the context of the early Christian Church is essential; it was a time when societal norms were heavily influenced by Jewish law and traditions, which often placed women in subordinate roles. To ignore or dismiss Paul’s instruction is perceived as an act of defiance against what he believed to be a command from God.
As we reflect on this passage, it’s essential to consider the broader implications of such teachings, the historical context in which they were written, and their impact on contemporary discussions about gender and authority within faith communities.
4. Male Spiritual Leadership Was God’s Order From the Beginning
In the biblical narrative, God created Adam first in the Garden of Eden, establishing him as the foundational leader of both humanity and the natural world. This initial act of creation not only signifies Adam’s headship but also underscores the intentional design of male leadership within God’s order. Eve, fashioned from Adam’s rib, was created as a companion and helper for him, a role that emphasizes partnership rather than dominance. This creation narrative illustrates that Eve was intended to support Adam in fulfilling God’s purposes rather than to operate independently or supplant his authority.
The account of the Fall in Genesis highlights a significant turning point: Eve’s decision to eat from the Tree of Knowledge was a departure from her intended role, as she acted outside of Adam’s headship. This choice was a pivotal moment, as it was not only an act of disobedience but also marked the beginning of a breach in divine order. Furthermore, while Adam’s sin involved a conscious choice to follow Eve, the account emphasizes how Satan exploited Eve’s independence, illustrating the peril of disregarding God’s established hierarchy. This narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of rejecting divine authority and the importance of adhering to God’s ordained structure of leadership (Genesis 2–3).
5. The Priesthood and the Apostles Were Male
Under the Old Covenant:
– All priests were exclusively males from the line of Aaron, as established in the book of Exodus (Exodus 28:1). This priestly lineage was essential for performing the sacred rituals and offerings in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple.
– Male Levites held exclusive rights to Temple ministry (Numbers 3:6-10), which included various responsibilities such as maintaining the Tabernacle, assisting the priests, and performing sacred duties. This arrangement underscored a patriarchal structure in religious leadership during this period.
– Deborah is a notable figure who served as a judge during a time characterized by male cowardice and reluctance to lead (Judges 4–5). While she played a significant role as a prophetess and military leader, her influence did not extend to the priesthood or temple teaching, which remained the domain of men.
Under the New Covenant:
– Jesus Christ chose twelve male apostles (Mark 3:13-19), a decision that reflects the cultural and societal norms of His time. These apostles were entrusted with spreading His teachings and establishing the early Church, forming the foundation of Christian leadership.
– The New Testament does not identify any female apostles, elders, or pastors, further indicating that, within this early Church structure, leadership roles were predominantly held by men. This absence highlights the continuity of patriarchal leadership models from the Old Covenant into the New Covenant context.
6. The Head of the Woman is the Man
In the context of Christian theology, the Scripture from 1 Corinthians 11:3 states: “But I want you to know that the head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God.” This passage emphasizes a divinely ordained hierarchical structure within the relationships among God, Christ, Man, and woman.
Preaching is not merely a form of communication; it is an act that signifies spiritual headship and authority in the Church. When a woman steps into a role of preaching over men, it is an inversion of this established chain of authority. This action is interpreted as disrupting the intended order established by God, in which each role has a specific purpose and place. Departure from these prescribed roles undermines God’s decree and challenges the traditional understanding of spiritual authority and leadership within the Church.
7. Rebellion Brings Judgment
“For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.” (1 Samuel 15:23)
When churches choose to ordain female pastors in direct contradiction to Scriptural principles, they engage in an open rebellion against Divine order. This act is akin to a spiritual witchcraft, as it undermines the authority of the Scriptures and invites the severe consequences of Christ’s Judgment — a warning He explicitly issued to the Church in Thyatira.
The perilous nature of spiritual rebellion cannot be overstated; it corrupts the Church’s foundation and distorts its mission. The act of prioritizing contemporary cultural values over biblical teachings demonstrates a troubling disregard for God’s commandments, which can lead to spiritual decline within the congregation. As believers, it is imperative that we carefully consider and heed Christ’s cautionary words, recognizing the gravity of rebellion in any form and the urgent need to align with Scriptural truth to avoid His Judgment.
8. A Jezebel Spirit Seduces Through Compromise
In the book of Revelation, specifically Revelation 2:20-23, we encounter a figure known as Jezebel, described as a self-proclaimed prophetess. This character is emblematic of those in contemporary times who similarly claim titles such as “prophetess” or “apostle.” However, it is crucial to note that Jesus did not appoint individuals to these roles in the same manner; such self-assumed titles often lead to significant confusion, moral ambiguity, and a troubling compromise of doctrinal truths.
The consequences of this spiritual deception are profound, as the Lord’s words indicate: “I gave her time to repent, but she did not repent” (Revelation 2:21, ESV). This passage emphasizes divine patience aimed at providing opportunities for repentance, while also highlighting the seriousness of willful disobedience. The refusal to disregard such misleading practices incites Judgment, reminding believers of the critical importance of adhering to sound doctrine and maintaining a clear moral compass in their spiritual lives. The message is clear: God will not tolerate unrepentant transgression that distorts His truth and leads others astray.
9. Women May Serve—But Not as Ordained Preachers
In the context of the Church, God provides opportunities for women to serve in meaningful and impactful ways. While traditional roles may vary, the following are key areas where women can contribute effectively:
– **Teaching Children:** Women are encouraged to take on the vital role of educating children in the faith. We can see this in 2 Timothy 1:5; the Apostle Paul recognizes the faith Timothy received from his mother and grandmother, demonstrating the critical influence women have on the spiritual growth of the next generation.
– **Disciplining Younger Women:** Women are called to mentor and guide younger women in their faith journeys. This process involves not only teaching them about biblical principles but also helping them navigate practical aspects of life, as emphasized in Titus 2:3-5. In this passage, older women are encouraged to serve as role models, fostering relationships that promote spiritual maturity and personal development.
– **Serving as Helpers, Encouragers, Intercessors, and Supporters:** The role of women in the Church extends to being vital support systems within the community. Romans 16:12 highlights the contributions of women like Phoebe, a deacon, and Julia, who were instrumental in ministry as helpers and encouragers. Their dedication to prayer and support for the Church underscores the importance of women’s roles in fostering a spiritually strong congregation.
Overall, while the role of ordained preaching may not be reserved for women, their contributions in teaching, mentoring, and supporting the Church are invaluable and encouraged throughout Scripture, but they are not to usurp the authority reserved for male leadership..
The Bible clearly states that God does not permit women to preach or lead men in the Church. This directive underscores a firm stance on the established roles of men and women within the Christian faith community.
10. The Bride Must Remain Pure
In Christian theology, the Church is often described as the bride of Christ, with Christ serving as her Head, as outlined in Ephesians 5:23-24. This metaphor emphasizes a divine relationship characterized by love, sacrifice, and authority. When a woman assumes a position of preaching or authority over men, it disrupts this established spiritual framework, suggesting a reversal of roles that the Scriptures present. Such actions can be seen as compromising the Church’s purity and integrity, constituting a form of disobedience against God’s ordained order. This notion underscores the belief that maintaining the traditional roles within the Church is essential to preserving its sanctity and alignment with biblical teachings.
11. Major Religions Confirm This Principle
Judaism, Islam, and historic Christianity collectively uphold the principle of male leadership in spiritual offices, reflecting longstanding traditions:
– **Judaism:** In the Orthodox tradition, spiritual leadership has historically been restricted to males. Only men were allowed to serve as priests (Kohanim) and rabbis, roles which included conducting religious services, interpreting sacred texts, and guiding the community in matters of faith and practice.
– **Islam:** In Islamic practice, women are generally not permitted to lead mixed-gender congregational prayers. Instead, male imams fulfill this role, guiding the community in worship and religious life. This tradition is rooted in interpretations of Islamic texts and the practices established during the time of the Prophet Muhammad.
– **Christianity:** For nearly 1,900 years, mainstream Christian denominations largely opposed the ordination of women, asserting that leadership roles within the Church should be reserved for men. This stance was based on scriptural interpretations and historical precedents. However, in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, some liberal Christian movements began to challenge this tradition, advocating for female ordination and leadership roles in response to contemporary societal changes and calls for gender equality.
These perspectives illustrate how male leadership has been a consistent feature across these major religions, emphasizing the cultural and theological underpinnings that support this principle.
12. Modern Tolerance is Spiritual Cowardice
Jesus remarked in Revelation 2:20: “Nevertheless, I have a few things against you, because you allow…” In this passage, Christ rebukes the Church not merely for engaging in sinful actions but specifically for permitting the presence and influence of false teachers within its midst.
Today, many churches embrace the notion of tolerance, often allowing female pastors and leaders to serve in positions traditionally held by men. This shift is frequently seen as a move towards progressiveness and inclusivity; however, it may stem more from a desire to meet societal expectations than from adherence to biblical principles. By prioritizing the approval of society over steadfast faith in God’s Word, these congregations risk compromising their core beliefs.
The reference to the figure of Jezebel serves as a poignant reminder that tolerating deceitful teachings and immoral practices can lead to grave consequences. The warning is clear: a Church that allows the influence of such figures invites Judgment upon itself. Believers must stand firm in their convictions, protecting the integrity of their faith against the encroachment of modern cultural ideologies that conflict with traditional biblical doctrine.
13. Why Does the Church Tolerate What God Calls an Abomination?
The question transcends the clarity found within Scripture, which unequivocally outlines God’s standards and moral directives. Instead, we must examine the troubling reality that many church leaders—pastors, elders, and entire denominations—appear to prioritize societal acceptance and the opinions of people over their reverence for Christ, who reigns from His heavenly throne. This fear of scrutiny, backlash, and potential loss of congregational support seems to overshadow their duty to uphold biblical truths. What compels these leaders to compromise? Is it a desire for relevance in a rapidly changing culture, or is it a deeper issue of conviction and courage in the face of modern challenges? Understanding the motivations behind this troubling tolerance requires a thoughtful exploration of faith, leadership, and the ongoing tension between divine commandments and human expectations.
14. Repent or Face Judgment
In the Book of Revelation, Jesus delivers a stern warning to Jezebel and all who adhere to her teachings: “Indeed, I will cast her into a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her into great tribulation, unless they repent of their deeds.” (Revelation 2:22). This declaration is not merely an idle threat; it serves as a profound reminder of the consequences of straying from divine truth.
Jesus draws attention to the serious ramifications of allowing corrupting influences within the Church. He emphasizes that congregations that ordain female pastors, in this context, risk inviting a host of detrimental effects, including moral corruption, doctrinal confusion, and spiritual decay. These issues can manifest as a dilution of biblical truths, leading to teachings that stray from the core principles of Christianity.
Furthermore, the metaphor of a “sickbed” indicates a state of spiritual illness that can envelop not only individual believers but entire congregations, resulting in a community that is unable to thrive in faith and truth. The call to repentance stands as the only remedy, urging the faithful to return to sound doctrine and restore their commitment to biblical teachings. Without this return, the Church may face not only internal strife but also miss out on the blessings and guidance of God’s Spirit, making it imperative for believers to reflect on their practices and beliefs.
15. Let the Bride Return to Her Lord
In a world where cultural pressures often demand compromise, believers are called to stand firm in their faith with courage and conviction. The teachings of Christ are not negotiable; they are eternal truths that transcend time and societal shifts. As stated in Matthew 24:35, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” This affirmation underscores the importance of adhering to divine principles, even amidst mockery and opposition from the surrounding culture. Believers must strive to embody these teachings and return wholeheartedly to their Lord, trusting that His guidance remains steadfast and unchanging, regardless of the tumultuous influences of the world around them.
Conclusion: Fear God, Not Man
In the eyes of a holy God, allowing a woman to preach or teach in a formal, ordained capacity is an abomination. This belief is not merely a matter of human opinion; it is a clear directive rooted in the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ, who is sovereign over the universe and intimately involved with His Church. As stated in Revelation, He holds the stars in His right hand and walks among the churches, reminding us of His authority and Judgment.
The pressing question for every pastor, elder, and church board is this: Why do you tolerate Jezebel in your pulpit? This metaphorical reference to Jezebel emphasizes the danger of permitting practices and teachings that contradict biblical principles, which can lead to the moral and spiritual decay of the Church.
Christ is urgently calling His Church to repent of these transgressions and return to His teachings, or risk the dire consequences He warned of in Scripture. This call to repentance is not just a suggestion; it’s a crucial reminder of the accountability we hold to uphold the integrity of our faith and the teachings of Scripture. The Church must remain steadfast in its commitment to God’s ordained order and seek to honor Him above all human influences.
Key Scriptures
Genesis 2–3
1 Samuel 15:23
1 Corinthians 11:3; 14:34–35
1 Timothy 2:11-14
Titus 2:3–5
Revelation 2:19-23
Matthew 24:35
“Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth.” (Revelation 2:16)
May the Church tremble, repent, and return to the Word of the Lord.