First Corinthians 11:2-16: On Order in the New Creation

As mentioned in an earlier blog, God's order through creation takes a new shape in Christ (the New Creation).


In 1 Cor 11:11, Paul says, "In the Lord, neither is woman independent of man, nor is man independent of woman." So, Paul indicates an equality in Christ that the physical creation does not reveal. Sure, Genesis notes that the woman is a helper, supplementing the man, and this may be a basis for further discussion on the egalitarian nature of the male-female relationship. However, Paul sees something new here in Christ. So, he says in Gal 3:28 "There is neither male nor female." Paul argues, then, in Christ that we are all unified as a body and gender means nothing. However, we still need each other, whether male or female. It is only in extreme circumstances, such as Corinth, he argues for order in family and worship when the ideal of "in Christ" is not met.

Ultimately we all come from God, and thus we should relate to one another in peace. If peace is not achieved, then follow the law of creation--Men lead and women support. This is God's natural law that can only be trumped by the spiritual leadership of Christ.