Men and Women in Church, pt. 1

The church of God is a people and place of prayer. Such is the role of the NT temple, the church of the living God, all those united to Christ and built together as living stones into a spiritual house. In these verses, Paul reiterates his desire for prayer to mark the worship of God's people. Yet, he warns against sin and rebellion among men and women gathered in prayer. In this he is not excessively gloomy, but realistic—for even the godliest men and women easily go astray. Men are called to holiness and harmony, while women are to clothe themselves with good works and self-control. Regardless of one's gender, Christ and his glory ought be the overarching focus in prayer and worship. May such be true of us!