The traditional Reformed teaching on the head covering in 1 Corinthians 11:2-16 varies somewhat, but it generally interprets the passage in a way that upholds the principles of headship, modesty, and gender distinction while leaving room for differences on the application of the physical covering.
Below is an overview of how this passage has been historically understood by Reformed theologians and churches.
The Passage in Context
In 1 Corinthians 11:2-16, Paul addresses the issue of head coverings in corporate worship. He teaches that men should not cover their heads while praying or prophesying, while women should. Paul grounds his teaching in the order of creation (verses 8-9) and the principle of headship (verse 3):
“But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, the head of a wife is her husband, and the head of Christ is God.”
Paul’s argument is theological rather than merely cultural, pointing to timeless truths about God’s design for men and women.
The Principles Underlying the Passage
Headship and Authority
The covering (or lack thereof) symbolizes the principle of headship, which reflects God’s order in creation. Men are to lead and represent Christ, while women honor their God-ordained roles under the headship of their husbands or male leadership in the church.
Gender Distinction
Paul emphasizes the importance of maintaining clear distinctions between men and women in appearance and behavior, reflecting the created order. This distinction is essential to God’s design and purpose for humanity.
Public Worship and Modesty
The head covering serves as a visible sign of modesty and submission in the context of corporate worship. It aligns with the principle that worship should glorify God and reflect His order, avoiding confusion or impropriety.
The Traditional Reformed View
Reformed theologians historically affirmed the teaching in 1 Corinthians 11 as binding, but their application of the head covering varies:
Literal Application
Some Reformed Christians have argued that women should wear a physical head covering (such as a veil or hat) during public worship. This view was widely practiced in Protestant churches, including Reformed and Puritan traditions, well into the 19th and early 20th centuries. They viewed the head covering as a direct application of Paul’s teaching, symbolizing submission to God’s order.
For example, John Calvin, in his commentary on 1 Corinthians, affirmed the practice of women wearing head coverings, emphasizing its connection to natural law and the distinction of the sexes.
Cultural Symbolism
Others in the Reformed tradition argue that the physical head covering was a cultural practice in Paul’s time, serving as a symbol of submission and propriety. They believe the underlying principle—headship and gender distinction—remains binding, but the specific application (head coverings) may vary by culture.
For instance, they might interpret a woman’s modest dress and demeanor today as fulfilling the same principle, even if a physical covering is not worn.
Spiritual and Universal Principles
A more general interpretation focuses on the spiritual truths behind the head covering rather than the specific practice. The emphasis is on submission to God’s order, gender roles, and the importance of modesty and reverence in worship. In this view, the head covering is not necessary today if the principles are upheld in other ways.
Modern Reformed Practice
Today, among Reformed churches, there is no universal consensus on the practice of head coverings. Many congregations do not require women to wear them, viewing the passage as culturally specific. However, some Reformed groups, such as certain conservative Presbyterians or Dutch Reformed churches, maintain the practice as a biblical mandate.
The Second London Baptist Confession (1689) and other Reformed confessions do not explicitly address head coverings, likely because the principle of headship and modesty is affirmed in broader terms.
Conclusion
The traditional Reformed teaching on 1 Corinthians 11 upholds the principles of headship, gender distinction, and modesty as timeless truths rooted in creation and God’s design. Whether the physical head covering is required today depends on how one interprets the cultural versus universal aspects of Paul’s teaching. Faithful Christians and churches may differ on its application, but all should strive to honor the principles Paul sets forth, ensuring that worship reflects God’s order and glorifies Him.
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