2 Corinthians 5-6
Just responded to a Facebook discussion between a Catholic and a Protestant who were discussing the validity of ordaining women in ministry. So sad to me to see that "the church" continues to argue about the value of women. I put the church in quotes because if we were the church universal and could agree on most things, I don't think the women in ministry issue would be such a problem. To me this issue is just a smoke screen for a deeper issue that humans have - flesh. (Can't wait to see if there are any comments on this!).
5:12 "We are not commending ourselves to you again, but giving you an opportunity to boast about us, so that you may be able to answer to those who boast in outward appearance and not in heart."
5:17 talks about anyone who is in Christ is a "new creation". 5:19 says the message of reconciliation has been entrusted to us. Paul is concerned about what God is doing INSIDE us.
In chapter 6 we see that our faith does not protect us from pain and suffering. 6:10 reminds us that though we have nothing, we have everything.
6:14 is not just a passage about marriage. It is a reminder to us about all of our relationships. One of my husband's favorite quotes is "If you hang with Al Capone, you're gonna act like Al Capone." Paul is encouraging us to "hang" with God and to honor our relationship to God in all of our relationships - whether they are with believers or unbelievers.
6:12 says "I speak as to children - open wide your hearts also." Children can teach us so much about the need for acceptance and their willingness to accept others. So can Paul.
What do you mean when you say "To me this issue is just a smoke screen for a deeper issue that humans have - flesh".? Want are you referring to with "flesh"?
ReplyDeleteI am many times naive and want to think that people act with the best intentions and motives. With that said, I believe that the opinions about validity of ordaining women in ministry are based on "biblical interpretations". What did Paul have so say about it?
Don't let the lack of comments discourage you.
Flesh? - sexuality in general. Primarily the tension between men and women.
ReplyDeleteAs far as the ordination of women, I think the passage 1 Corinthians 14:34 has been a problem.
Thanks for the encouragement!