The Head Covering Debate: What Scripture Actually Says

Are You Confused About Head Coverings?

The head covering debate has divided churches for generations. Some claim it's essential doctrine, while others dismiss it as outdated tradition. What does Scripture actually teach?

God's Order Never Changes

1 Corinthians 11:3 establishes God's unchanging foundation: "But I would have you know that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God."

This isn't about superiority—it's about divine order and God-given roles.

What "Head" Really Means

Biblical headship involves:

• Authority and growth (Ephesians 1:22, 4:15)
• Love and sacrifice (Ephesians 5:23)
• Preeminence (Colossians 1:18)
• Completeness (Colossians 2:10)

The trap of the devil isn't about what goes on your head—it's being so distracted by head coverings that you've forgotten the clear command to witness to the lost.

What Scripture Says About Head Coverings

Here's the key: If God wanted to command additional head coverings, He would have mentioned it in the primary passages about women's conduct.

1 Peter 3:1-4 addresses wives' behavior, conversation, dress, hair, and jewelry—but mentions no additional head covering requirement.

1 Timothy 2:9-10 discusses modest apparel and adornment—again, no mention of mandatory head coverings.

The focus is on "the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit" (1 Peter 3:4).

The Proverbs 31 Example

Some point to Proverbs 31:22: "She maketh herself coverings of tapestry." But the context shows "her clothing is silk and purple"—she's making clothes, not religious head coverings.

Biblical Submission Explained

For Men: Your headship means Christ-like leadership—loving, sacrificial, protective. You earn respect through godly character, not force.

For Women: Biblical submission isn't inferiority. Like Christ's submission to the Father, it's about roles and cooperation. Jesus isn't inferior to the Father—they're equal in essence but different in function.

Jesus and the Crown of Thorns

Consider this: Jesus had an additional covering on His head—a crown of thorns—as He died for our sins. With this covering, He:

• Prophesied and spoke truth (John 19:11)
• Cared for His mother (John 19:26)
• Cried out to the Father (Matthew 27:46)

Did His head covering dishonor the Father? Absolutely not.

The Gospel Priority

Your witness should be verbal proclamation of God's Word, not just silent living. People aren't saved by how you dress—they're saved by faith in Christ alone.

"For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus" (1 Timothy 2:5).

The Bottom Line

Don't let debates about head coverings distract from Scripture's clear commands. Ladies, whether you choose to wear an additional head covering is between you, your husband, and God.

But never let external practices replace the heart of the gospel: Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again. That's the message that saves souls.

🎧📖 Want the Complete Teaching? This condensed post only covers the highlights of this powerful exposition on biblical headship and head coverings. Listen to the full verse-by-verse bible teaching for deeper insights into God's order and design. Experience this expository preaching style that lets Scripture interpret Scripture—you'll gain clarity on this controversial topic that many churches avoid discussing.

[Listen to the Full Sermon Here - Complete Expository Preaching on Biblical Headship]