In this chapter Paul lays down the law and declares that all women in the church must cover their heads, that all men must uncover their heads, that women should have long hair, and men should have short hair. Paul was quite insistent upon these things. It was a big deal.
Are we messing up today?
I don't think so.
In the first century women never went out in public with their heads uncovered. It was considered immodest. In fact, it was the mark of a prostitute to go hatless. Paul was concerned with the reputation of Christian women, that they would not appear to be involved in things that were evil. So he ordered all the women to wear hats.
In that culture hat wearing was a sign of respect for God for women, while taking off your hat was a sign of respect for for for men. And long hair for women was considered a kind of head covering, while short hair for men was considered a kind of head uncovering. Respect, again, was the issue, as well as modesty.
We don't worry too much today about what people wear on their heads or how long their hair is. But three principles remain:
1. We are called to respect God
2. We are called to dress modestly
3. We are called to live in a way that does not harm our witness.
Related scriptures: 1 Timothy 2.9-10, 1 Thessalonians 4.11-12, Acts 2.46-47
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