It’s Peter, your brother in Scotland. I haven’t posted much online in a while due to family illnesses, but I am back sharing what’s on my heart as we dig into God’s Word together. If you know anything about me, I lean on the Word of God, the simple truth of Scripture, I love people, I love to teach the Bible, and keep it real.
Lately, I have been wrestling with questions about women leading churches, head coverings, and those unsettling moments when someone says, “I’ve got a word for you.” I have felt the heebie-jeebies, scared and sceptical about that myself, so let’s see what God says, holding tight to His love and truth.
Women in God’s Family
Folks, God cherishes every sister in Christ, and women shine in His church. But when it comes to pastoring or being an elder, the Bible draws a line. In 1 Timothy 2:12, Paul says, “I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence.” And in 1 Corinthians 14:34, he writes, “Let your women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive.” This is not about silencing women, it’s God’s design, rooted in creation: “Adam was formed first, then Eve” (1 Tim. 2:13).
Some, like Cliffe Knechtle in a video I saw, say this was just for Ephesus because of their Artemis cult (Acts 19:24-28). But Paul points to Genesis, not local issues, showing this is for all churches. Sisters, you’re vital, teaching kids, guiding women (Titus 2:3-5), serving like Phoebe (Rom. 16:1). But God calls men to lead as pastors, who must be “the husband of one wife” (1 Tim. 3:2). It’s His order, and it’s good.
Head Coverings: Honouring God’s Way
Now, head coverings, what’s that about? In 1 Corinthians 11:5, Paul says, “Every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonours her head.” And verse 10 adds, she needs “a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels.” In Corinth’s wild days (Acts 18:1-11), uncovered heads could look rebellious, but this is deeper than culture. It’s about showing we are under God’s authority and man’s headship (1 Cor. 11:3: “the head of woman is man”).
I believe a woman’s long hair is her God-given covering, but if her hair’s short, a veil during prayer or prophecy says, “I’m under God’s protection.” It’s like a sign to angels that we follow His order (1 Cor. 11:10), tied to creation (vv. 8-9). Sisters, it’s not about rules; it’s a heart choice to honour God. We don’t judge anyone with short hair; we love you, and God sees your heart.
Prophecy: God’s Truth, Not Fear
Prophecy’s been tough for me, especially when someone says, “I’ve got a word for you,” and it feels like clairvoyance. That’s scared me, and I’m sceptical of anything that doesn’t feel right. The Bible says prophecy is for “edification and exhortation and comfort” (1 Cor. 14:3). In 1 Corinthians 11:5, women prophesying meant sharing God’s truth to build up the church, like Philip’s daughters (Acts 21:9). It’s speaking God’s heart, maybe explaining Scripture or encouraging others, not always predicting things.
But when a “word” feels spooky or controlling, it’s not from God. Paul shut down a fortune-teller in Acts 16:16-18, and we should test everything (1 Cor. 14:29). If someone gives me a “word,” I say, “Thanks, I’ll pray, check the Bible, and talk to my leaders.” God’s Spirit brings peace, not fear (2 Tim. 1:7). True prophecy lifts us up, not tears us down.
Let’s Walk Together
Family, God’s Word is our guide, and His love holds us tight. Women, you’re a blessing in His church, shining in so many ways. Men, let’s lead with Jesus’ humility. And when spiritual claims come, let’s test them together, leaning on Scripture. Grab your Bible, maybe listen to 1 Corinthians 11 and 14 on YouVersion or Blue Letter Bible, and let’s keep chatting at bornagainchristians.faith.
God’s design is beautiful, and we’re in this as His family!
With all my love,
Peter