1 Corinthians 11:1-16

The matter of the head covering 1 Corinthians 11:1-16: One issue that has been in the forefront of discussion from the late 20th century until now has been the role of women in society and in the church. Those that study the scriptures know that God says, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus." (Galatians 3:28) Some try to reason from this verse to prove that there is equality, and not headship.

I am not sure where the idea that the veil had to do with worship came from. The text seems clear in showing that Paul was dealing with the demeanor of Christian men and women in public. Women would never be prophesying in the church. Paul was simply dealing with a custom of his day and it was temporary, not permanent. Paul reasoned, "If it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered." (1 Corinthians 11:6) He is obviously dealing with society attitudes of his day! Headship must always be respected and it never changes. Society customs should be respected and they may change through the years or be different in different societies. Paul encouraged the brethren to act in harmony with the customs that were in harmony with the principles of headship and subjection.