Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 5
Chrysostom is quoted saying the practice was countercultural: Corinthian women prayed unveiled and men had long hair and covered when praying, yet Paul reverses that; how does this undermine the claim “Paul is just reinforcing local culture,” and what does it suggest about God’s priorities when His commands collide with social norms?
Another way to ask: If Corinth’s culture did the opposite of what Paul commands, how does that challenge the idea that Paul was just copying local customs? What does it suggest God cares about when His commands go against society?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
Based on the transcript, the Chrysostom evidence directly contradicts the idea that Paul was merely following Corinthian norms; Paul’s instructions challenged what was already culturally normal in Corinth. This suggests God’s commands are willing to confront and reverse social expectations rather than endorse them.
- He says many claim it was cultural (often tied to prostitution), but then argues the prostitution rationale is fabricated and the practice wasn’t “just Corinth.”
- He quotes Chrysostom describing the Grecian custom: “Their women used to both pray and prophesy unveiled… But the men went as far as to wear long hair… and covered their heads when praying and prophesying… a Grecian custom.”
- He summarizes: “this is actually very countercultural to the time.”
- Chrysostom notes Paul had already “admonished them… and some perhaps listened… and others disobeyed,” implying Paul is correcting a practice, not affirming it.
- The speaker later uses this to critique modern claims that head covering is “silly” or merely “ingrained in Corinthian culture.”