Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing
William MacDonald teaches that while women have specific roles in the church, their godly childbearing and nurturing of future generations is a vital and honored ministry.
In this expository sermon, William MacDonald explores the biblical role of women in the church, focusing on 1 Timothy 2:15. He explains that while women may not hold certain public ministries, their godly childbearing and nurturing of children is a sacred and impactful calling. MacDonald encourages believers to recognize and honor the spiritual significance of motherhood and the home ministry.
Text
“Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing…” (1 Tim. 2:15)
From some of the restrictions Paul places on woman’s ministry in the church, it might seem that she is reduced to a nonentity. For instance, she is not permitted to teach or to usurp authority over the man, but must be in silence (v. 12). Some might conclude that she is relegated to an inferior place in the Christian faith.
But verse 15 clears up any such misconception. “She shall be saved in childbearing…” Clearly this is not referring to the salvation of her soul, but rather to the salvation of her position in the church. To her is given the tremendously important privilege of raising sons and daughters for God.
William Ross Wallace said, “The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world.” Behind almost every great leader is a great mother.
It is doubtful that Susannah Wesley ever ministered from a pulpit, but her ministry in the home has had a worldwide outreach through two of her sons, John and Charles.
In our society it is fashionable for many women to desert the home in order to carve out more glamorous careers in the business or professional world. To them housework is drab and raising a family is a dispensable chore.
At a Christian women’s luncheon, the conversation had drifted to the subject of careers. Each one was rhapsodizing about her position and her salary. There is no question that there was a spirit of rivalry! Finally one turned to a housewife who had three stalwart sons and asked, “And what is your career, Charlotte?” Charlotte replied humbly, “I raise men for God.”
Pharaoh’s daughter said to the mother of Moses,” Take this child away, and nurse it for me, and I will give thee thy wages” (Ex. 2:9). Perhaps one of the greatest surprises at the Judgment Seat of Christ will be the high wages the Lord pays to those women who have devoted themselves to raising boys and girls for Him and for eternity.
Yes, “she shall be saved in childbearing…” Woman’s place in the church is not one of public ministry, but perhaps the ministry of godly childbearing is of far greater importance in the eyes of God.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Paul's restrictions on women's roles in the church
- Misconceptions about women's position in Christianity
- The command for women to be silent and not teach
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II
- Clarification of 'she shall be saved in childbearing'
- Salvation of a woman's position, not just her soul
- The privilege of raising children for God
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III
- Examples of godly mothers impacting history
- The societal trend away from homemaking
- The eternal value of raising children for Christ
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IV
- Biblical illustration: Pharaoh’s daughter and Moses’ mother
- The reward for godly childbearing at the Judgment Seat
- The high calling of women in the home ministry
Key Quotes
“Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing… Woman’s place in the church is not one of public ministry, but perhaps the ministry of godly childbearing is of far greater importance in the eyes of God.” — William MacDonald
“The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world.” — William MacDonald
“Perhaps one of the greatest surprises at the Judgment Seat of Christ will be the high wages the Lord pays to those women who have devoted themselves to raising boys and girls for Him and for eternity.” — William MacDonald
Application Points
- Value and honor the ministry of raising children as a vital service to God.
- Encourage women to embrace their God-given roles without feeling inferior.
- Recognize that spiritual impact often begins within the home and family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this sermon imply women are inferior in the church?
No, it clarifies that women have a unique and vital role, especially in childbearing and nurturing future generations for God.
What does 'saved in childbearing' mean?
It refers to the preservation and honor of a woman's role through the godly raising of children, not just spiritual salvation.
Why are women restricted from teaching in this passage?
Paul's instructions emphasize order in the church and assign teaching authority primarily to men, while honoring women's other ministries.
Can women serve God outside the home?
Yes, but this sermon highlights the profound spiritual impact of the ministry within the home, especially in raising godly children.
What reward is promised for godly mothers?
The sermon suggests a high reward at the Judgment Seat of Christ for women who faithfully raise children for God.