1 Corinthians 14:26-40 

What should be done then, my friends? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for building up. If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be only two or at most three, and each in turn; and let one interpret. But if there is no one to interpret, let them be silent in church and speak to themselves and to God. Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others weigh what is said. If a revelation is made to someone else sitting nearby, let the first person be silent. For you can all prophesy one by one, so that all may learn and all be encouraged. And the spirits of prophets are subject to the prophets, for God is a God not of disorder but of peace. (As in all the churches of the saints, women should be silent in the churches. For they are not permitted to speak, but should be subordinate, as the law also says. If there is anything they desire to know, let them ask their husbands at home. For it is shameful for a woman to speak in church. 

Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only ones it has reached?) Anyone who claims to be a prophet, or to have spiritual powers, must acknowledge that what I am writing to you is a command of the Lord. Anyone who does not recognize this is not to be recognized. So, my friends, be eager to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues; but all things should be done decently and in order.

Reflection by Lillian Daniel 

I was tempted to skip this particular reading, or to follow it with nothing but a blank screen, the visual version of a woman being silent in church.
But instead, I’d like to have my say. “Sit down and shut up” is not the final word of the Lord. 

I once led a Bible study for some well-educated clergy on a reading from Paul. A woman minister interrupted me right off the bat, saying: “Sorry, but I just have to say, I have a real problem with Paul.” And I responded, “Well the feeling’s mutual.” 

But despite her “problem” with Paul, I continued. Paul’s letters, while not perfect, are still wonderful and rich. I have no trouble believing that someone can be right on many spiritual things and still get stuck in the cultural norms of his day. 

I approach texts like this with a spirit of humility. What statements of mine will people read one day and ask, “What was she thinking?” I know I carry the prejudices of my world around with me, just like Paul. And like him, I may be blind to many of them during my own lifetime. 

For that reason, I am grateful to all the people who were told, “Sit down and shut up,” and didn’t. 

Because of them, we read Paul differently today. He’s fallible, as we all are, and the church is richer for it. 

Prayer 

Still Speaking God, have I shut down someone else’s speech? Still Speaking God, have I allowed myself to get shut down? Have I been sad and silent when I should have been loud and proud? Have I been proud and loud when I should have listened in humility? Guide me, Still Speaking God. Amen.