In 1 Timothy 2:11-12 it says, “Let a women learn in silence
with full submission. I permit no woman to teach or to have authority over a
man; she is to keep silent.” This very obviously states that women are to do no
more then listen and learn. Women are not to speak or teach anyone anything.
They must stay silent and be submissive to be saved and have holiness.
This is in direct correlation to what Thecla did in the Acts of Paula and Thecla 8, “… For
indeed for three days and three nights Thecla has not risen from the window
either to eat or to drink, but gazing steadily as if on some joyful spectacle
she so devotes herself to a strange man who teaches deceptive and subtle words
that I wonder how a maiden (of such modesty) as she is can be so sorely troubled.”
Then in 1 Timothy 2:13-15 it says, “For Adam was formed
first, then Eve; and Adam was not deceived but the women was deceived and
became a transgressor. Yet she will be saved through childbearing, provided
they continue in faith and love and holiness, with modesty.” In this passage it
seems like women are being blamed for eating the forbidden fruit in Genesis.
The only way to prove there worth and holiness is through childbearing. This is
how women will continue to keep grace in the eyes of the Lord.
While comparing 1 Timothy and the Acts of Paul and Thecla it
seems to me that Thecla conforms completely to what is stated in 1 Timothy. She
conforms to fit the mold that is thought to be necessary to achieve holiness
and pureness. These stories speak of how women should act to be holy and pure.
Both stories have the same standards for women and very few if any standards
for men.
Morgan McMullen
In your first paragraph I completely agree with you saying Thecla completely abides by what is expected of her in 1 Timothy, submissiveness. Thecla is mesmerized by Paul's words and his teachings. Thecla at this point does match the woman that is described in 1 Timothy.
ReplyDeleteBut as time goes on, Thecla seems to lose this submission and take on another role. By demanding authority, wearing flashy clothes and jewelry, taking it upon herself to teach the word of God, and being not quiet, she goes against what a woman is expected in 1 Timothy.
So at first, as you said, yes Thecla conforms to a woman of 1 Timothy, but I would ave to say later on I believe she did not. But I believe you should've pointed out more actions of Thecla that went against a woman according to 1 Timothy.