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Book of 1 Corinthians - Chapter 11 - Verse 3

11:3
But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.

Meaning

In this verse, the apostle Paul is outlining the hierarchy of authority that exists within the Christian faith. He explains that just as Christ is the head of every man, so too should man be the head of the woman. This statement does not imply superiority or dominance, but rather a structure of mutual respect and love. It is important to note that this verse does not condone mistreatment or oppression of women, but rather emphasizes the importance of order and submission within the family and the church. Ultimately, this hierarchy serves as a reflection of the relationship between God the Father and Jesus Christ, with Christ willingly submitting to the Father's will. By understanding and following this structure of authority, Christians can aspire to live in harmony and unity, reflecting the love and grace of God in their relationships and communities.

Theological Overview

The theological interpretation of this verse highlights the concept of authority and hierarchy within the family and the divine order. It suggests a structured relationship in which Christ holds authority over man, man holds authority over woman, and ultimately, God holds authority over Christ. This passage emphasizes the importance of submission and respect within the family unit as well as in the broader context of the relationship between Christ and God. The words "head" in this verse can also be interpreted in the sense of source or origin, indicating that Christ emanates from God and man emanates from Christ. These hierarchical relationships are meant to reflect the divine order established by God and serve as a model for how individuals should relate to one another in love and respect.

American Standard Version

But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.
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