The Glory of God?

Doxa (δόξα) is a Greek word meaning common belief or popular opinion, from which are derived the modern terms of orthodoxy and heterodoxy (provided by internet source). However the translation of Doxa taught in Biblical Greek class was “glory” or “praise”.

If we consider the use of Doxa as a ‘common belief or popular opinion’, it would be difficult to not question Paul’s use in 1 Corinthians 11:7. Paul states, “A man ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God; but the woman is the glory of man”.

Is this stating that Doxa is the general opinion? Or that it should be?

Man glorifies God with his actions, just as the woman glorifies the man (which is referring to the fact that Eve came from Adam; the word woman = ‘from man’ or ‘for man’; see: Gen 2).

In all of this we must remember that Paul promoted a society of honor between man and woman, especially to the Corinthians, who lacked this in many regards. Earlier in 1 Corinthians, Paul spoke of the man remaining sexually faithful to his wife in 1 Corinthians 7 (as it was common for the man to commit adultery with no consequence). Thus it was equally important for the woman to demonstrate respect for her husband (e.g. wearing the head covering or refrain from speaking during public meetings).

These are cultural examples taken from a letter written for a particular purpose. While the message of 1 Corinthians 11:7 is that man and woman should honor one another and God over themselves.

So possibly, Paul was confirming that glory (Doxa) given to God, from Woman and Man, should be common practice. But regardless, we can say that neither the Corinthians, nor Christians today have done this consistently well.

If you want to listen to the best sermon series I have ever heard on the book of 1 Corinthians go to, http://amarillocentral.com/ (You’ll have to go to their media page, and scroll down a bit on the media player. Look for the verses in 1 Cor.)

~ by Brad Raburn on July 17, 2009.