This lesson is very similar to Bible Bytes 1.9 where we spoke of the “Big Little Words of the Bible.” This one, however, focuses on the so-often neglected transition words in the Bible text. Perhaps social media and our busy lives have “programmed” us to hone in on the “big words.” If so, we miss so much and will likely misunderstand or at least not understand the fullness of what is being said. Countless Bible texts could be used to illustrate this lesson, but we will use 1 Timothy 2:8-14 to demonstrate the value of these words.
Paul tells the young preacher Timothy, “I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling; likewise also that women should adorn themselves in respectable apparel, with modesty and self-control, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly attire, but with what is proper for women who profess godliness—with good works. Let a woman learn quietly with all submissiveness. I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; rather, she is to remain quiet. For Adam was formed first, then Eve; and Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor. Yet she will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith and love and holiness, with self-control.” (I have italicized what I am calling transition words to draw them to your attention.)
Space will not allow for a full discussion of all of these words nor this text, but we will at least notice enough to well emphasize our point. Notice the word “then” in verse 8. This word shows that the command Paul is about to give is based upon what he has just stated. In the previous verse he mentioned that he “was appointed a preacher and an apostle.” That men are to be the ones leading prayer in “every place” (place of worship), is given by Paul’s divine appointment. It is a matter of “faith and truth” (v. 7).
The word “likewise” (v. 9) is extremely significant as well. In this case Paul uses it to indicate that just like he was appointed to teach concerning the role of men in the church, he also has instructions regarding women in the church.
The word “but” in verse 10 is used by Paul to show contrast. Instead of giving great attention to the outward person, the Christian woman is to be more attentive to godliness. That is what truly makes her beautiful.
The word “for” which is used in verse 13 can have various meanings depending upon how it is being used. In this case, it is clearly to answer the question why God did not permit a woman to teach over a man. He did so, “For Adam was created first, then Eve; and Adam was not deceived but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor” (vv. 13-14). Here the word “for” essentially means “because.” This becomes a very significant point because many argue that our culture today is different and therefore women in the church are no longer bound by this teaching. However, the word “for” demonstrates that this command is tied to the order of creation and linked to the nature of sin in the beginning. She has this particular role “because” or “for this reason,” Paul says. (Incidentally, the apostle Paul loves using the word “for” to begin sentences in his argumentation. He does so in every chapter of the book of Romans!)
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The word “and” in verse 14 is used in a standard way, linking two things together. Here it shows that man had two things that led to receiving the role he did. First, he was before Eve in order of creation. Secondly, he did not sin in the same way that Eve did, though he certainly sinned.
The final word we will notice is “yet,” which is found in verse 15. The idea is that although she (Eve) allowed herself to be deceived by the devil, she, and all women who follow the Lord, have great hope of being saved, provided they keep their God-given role.
My hope is that this lesson will cause you to pay more careful attention to how the Bible writers use these transition words. Doing so will provide you with a more accurate understanding of the message of Almighty God.
P.S. Watch for the word “therefore!” We are especially prone to miss the point when this word begins a new chapter. As it has been said, “When you see the word “therefore,” you need to look to see what was before.” The word “therefore” draws a conclusion from what has been previously argued or stated.
Daren Schroeder
