10-12 Don’t, by the way, read too much into the differences here between men and women. Neither man nor woman can go it alone or claim priority. Man was created first, as a beautiful shining reflection of God—that is true. But the head on a woman’s body clearly outshines in beauty the head of her “head,” her husband. The first woman came from man, true—but ever since then, every man comes from a woman! And since virtually everything comes from God anyway, let’s quit going through these “who’s first” routines.

13-16 Don’t you agree there is something naturally powerful in the symbolism—a woman, her beautiful hair reminiscent of angels, praying in adoration; a man, his head bared in reverence, praying in submission? I hope you’re not going to be argumentative about this. All God’s churches see it this way; I don’t want you standing out as an exception.

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

The Message Deluxe Gift Bible--soft leather-look, amethyst gem
The Message Deluxe Gift Bible--soft leather-look, amethyst gem
Retail: $19.99
Our Price: $15.99
Save: $4.00 (20%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
My First Message: A Devotional Bible for Kids
My First Message: A Devotional Bible for Kids
Retail: $24.99
Our Price: $18.99
Save: $6.00 (24%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
The Message The Book of Psalms
The Message The Book of Psalms
Retail: $8.99
Our Price: $7.49
Save: $1.50 (17%)
The Message of Easter - eBook
The Message of Easter - eBook
Retail: $4.99
Our Price: $3.99
Save: $1.00 (20%)
The Message Gift and Award Bible, Softcover, Coral
The Message Gift and Award Bible, Softcover, Coral
Retail: $7.99
Our Price: $6.99
Save: $1.00 (13%)
2.0 of 5.0 stars
The Message Student Bible (Softcover)
The Message Student Bible (Softcover)
Retail: $24.99
Our Price: $19.49
Save: $5.50 (22%)