11 Let a woman learn in silence with all submission.
Verses 11 and 12 speak to women at worship.
11 Let a woman [singular] learn
Paul switched from the plural “women” in 9-10 to singular here in verses 11-12. The thought is to “learn,” not teach (1 Co 14:34, 35) in the public assembly. “Learn” is to become a disciple. Each woman is to learn in a particular way. The issue concerns didactic teaching from the pastor-teacher, which produces Christian maturity. Her central issue should not be her appearance but the building of her soul. She must allow (“let”) herself to be put in the position of sitting under the exposition of Scripture. Each woman should take responsibility as a learner or disciple.
in silence
“Silence” is the ambiance that enhances learning, the space for hearing. The idea is not verbal silence but an attitude for learning. A woman should manifest two elements in her learning: “silence”— or, better, quietness—and “submission.” “Silence” does not mean complete silence from talking. There is another Greek word for total silence (sigaw) or saying nothing (Lu 18:39; 1 Co 14:34). The thrust is a teachable spirit.
with all submission.
“Submission” concerns God’s design for the human race, an orderly and purposeful construction. There are roles for both men and women. Submission does not demand that she cannot think for herself or come to a conclusion about truth. The Greek carries the idea of settling down or not being unruly (Acts 22:2; 2 Th 3:12). The idea is to respect those in authority. In this context, “submission” relates to the pastor-teacher while in formal worship, not a blind compliance but one that is a purposeful, informed response to God. Her submission is conducive to her discipleship.
PRINCIPLE:
Submission is not subjugation.
APPLICATION:
There is a debate about women assuming the role of the pastor-teacher, not so much whether women should be in ministry. Much of the unbiblical thrust is from evangelical feminism, which, in itself, is a violation of Scripture. These people favor the influence of culture over extant Scriptures.
God has an order for the home, church, and society.
