The role of women in the church is a fine study to undertake. Some shy away from such a study for fear of women and possible backlash. But I believe such fears are unfounded. Women welcome a clear presentation of what the bible teaches to be their role. To not teach it is to forfeit a Christian woman’s right to know her role and to step into a sphere of blessing.
When Paul wrote to Titus, here is what he said: 3Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. 4Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, 5to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God – Titus 2:3-5 NIV.
Let’s dissect this passage and discover the richness of God’s truths regarding how women - -both old and young are to conduct themselves in the house of God. And may I add that this is not just when women are in church one or two days a week. This is a perpetual lifestyle.
First, older women in the church are to be given special respect because of their age. A mother as well as a father are to be given honor by their children (Eph. 6:2; Exod. 20:12). This is not a command to be obeyed and taken seriously only up until the children reach age 18. This honor extends to parents up until the time of their death. In fact, an older woman who does something wrong should be lovingly rebuked as a mother (1 Tim. 5:2). Therefore, when Paul addresses older women here, he first wants to get across the idea of treating them with respect and honor.
Who then are to be considered older women? Well, Paul does not actually specify on an age here. Typically, child bearing ends around 40-45 years of age and child rearing ends at about 60-65. I think it would be reasonable to say that older women in the church would be those around 60 years old. In fact, this is the exact age Paul mentions to Timothy when he says to put widows on the church financial support list who are at least 60 years old (1 Tim. 5:9).
When Paul wanted to bring in line two warring women in the church at Philippi – Euodia and Syntyche, he graciously urged the leaders “help these women who have shared my struggle” (Phil. 4:2-3). There is an inference of respect and honor applied here.
I believe such godly older women are such a rich source of spiritual resource in the church. Such women deserve special esteem and consideration. What would cause an older woman to be given such high esteem? See the list below taken from 1 Timothy 5:3-10:
1. She is at least 60 years old
2. She fixes her hope on God
3. She prays regularly
4. She is or was a faithful wife and godly mother
5. She shows hospitality to others
6. She assist those in distress
7. She devotes herself to doing good works
Paul says to Timothy, if you come across a widow in your church who has these qualifications, then the church, if it is able to afford so, ought to financially support her.
It is wrong to allow such a person to be given over to the state for support. The church ought to set aside its own funds and help in practical ways. I know we tend to only want to support those who can somehow contribute to the church in service. Nothing wrong with that. But the church should also contribute to the support of older women who are in need of financial support as long as they meet the qualifications as outline to Timothy. This is a great way to show honor and esteem to seasoned saints.
Nevertheless, older women can serve in the church in numerous ways. What are some of these ways?
More to Come in Part 2
