By Lesallan – July 14th, 2023
In response to another Student’s Discussion, “Week 1 – Cultural Experience Discussion”
Hello All:
Wow, what an intriguing and interesting discussion post! It is amazing when we discover and experience other cultures. This student has never experienced anything other than a Christian worship experience himself. Yes, we should always accept invitations when given and always arrive with an open heart and an open mind.
Is it not amazing how other cultures begin their worship services? In the Christian world, we always open with a song sung from the hymnals of the old days, and then some open with modern-day music. Depending on your interpretation of Scripture, even in this world today, women were not meant to be preachers. Many Bible verses related to women preachers are mainly from the King James Version (KJV), including 1 Timothy 2:11-15, 1 Timothy 2:12, and Titus 2:3-5. These verses indicate that women should learn in silence, not teach, or usurp authority over men, and be in behavior as becometh holiness. Some interpret these verses as restricting women from pastoring or shepherding, which involves teaching and leading. Others may see different ways for women to serve God and His Church.
However, there are also other interpretations of the Bible that support women being preachers. For example, in the New Testament, there are several instances where women are described as prophesying or teaching. It is important to note that different denominations have different views on this topic. Some churches allow women to be pastors, while others do not. Ultimately, it is up to each individual church to decide what they believe is right.
This student agrees that it is important not to pre-judge any culture and to be respectful and open-minded regarding others’ religious beliefs. There are many in the world today that still portray Muslims in a negative way, given the events of the past. As with anything, we must respect others and their beliefs when it comes to religion. We as people are not much different from those that truly believe in God, no matter their religion. Blessings as we start our journey into Interpreting the Old Testament.
~Lesallan
