1 Corinthians Questions
Text: 1 Corinthians chapter 11:1-16: [please read text & answer questions]
*This passage has been a challenge for brethren as long as I can remember. There seem to be 4 interpretations to this passage concerning the covering for a woman. (A) man-made veil and binding today, (B) man-made covering, but only a local (Greek) custom, (C) not applicable because it pertained to spiritual gifts, and (D) long hair is the covering. Brother Jeff Smelser is well versed in Greek and has done an extensive study of the Greek in this passage and has come to the conclusion that the covering being referred to is long hair (not simply hair). I have copies of this study available for anyone who wishes to have one. I have used this in a recent personal study and found it very helpful.
1. In what way did Paul tell the Corinthians to imitate him?
2. What is the chain of command (headship) that is laid out in verse 3?
3. What situations are being discussed concerning the covering or not of heads according to verse 4?
4. What happens if a man prays or prophesies with his head covered?
5. What happens if a woman prays or prophesies with her head uncovered?
6. In verses 4-7 the term "head" is used several times. Is the term describing the same thing each time it is used? Please explain your answer.
7. Is it shameful for a woman to have her head shorn (i.e., have her hair cut off) or shaved?
8. Why must a man not cover his head while praying or prophesying?
9. What interdependent relationship do man and woman have from verses 8-12?
10. What are the Corinthians to judge for themselves?
11. From verse 14, what does nature teach about a man having long hair?
12. From verse 15, what two things do we learn about a woman with long hair?
13. To what do you think the custom mentioned in verse 16 is referring to?