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"We have no such custom..."

Text: 1 Corinthians 11:16

THE PROBLEM OF BEING CONTENTIOUS

This problem has existed since human beings were put on earth. There will always be contentious people and they will want to have their say.

“Judge among yourselves.
Is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered?
Does not even nature itself teach you that
if a man has long hair, it is a dishonour to him?
But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her;
for her hair is given to her for a covering.
But if anyone seems to be contentious,
we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God.”
1 Corinthians 11:13-16

1. Paul’s Viewpoint

a) Paul’s view reflected his theology.

b) His argument may be summarised in this way:

i) Men and women have their place in life.

ii) And in the church as well.

iii) Honour must be given to the Lord above all.

iv) The wife must give honour to her husband.

v) The husband must give due respect to his wife.

2. Possible expressions of displaying honour and decorum

a) Women ought to have a head covering.

b) If that is not possible, then she ought to have long hair (as her covering).

c) Men ought not to have long hair.

d) To have long hair would mean that his hair is his covering! (It should not be thus!)

3. Contentions

a) The debate could extend to many things.

i) Length of hair

ii) Type of covering

b) Paul refused to get caught up with these culture and customs. Thus, he concluded, “We have no such custom, nor do the churches of God!”

c) Due honour must be given to the Lord at all times!

d) Appropriate expressions must be found somehow.