01
Introduction
Begin with the right question.
Head covering is often dismissed before the passage is ever opened. This short introduction helps you set assumptions aside and ask a better question: what does Paul actually teach?
Your Study Path
Start with Scripture. Take it one step at a time.
You don't need to settle this question in one sitting. Begin with the passage itself, then work through the five biblical reasons at your own pace. Let the text lead you.
02
The Passage
Read 1 Corinthians 11:2–16 carefully.
Before weighing any arguments, read the passage slowly for yourself. You can read it right here on this page and compare how the major English translations render it.
Read the Passage03
The Case
Study the case in the format that suits you.
Once you have read the passage, explore the biblical case in whichever way you learn best: read through the five reasons, or listen to a recommended sermon or series.
Read or Listen04
Questions & Objections
Work through what still feels unresolved.
After studying the case, use the articles and videos to answer specific questions or objections. If you still cannot find an answer, ask in the community groups.
Find AnswersRead the Text
1 Corinthians 11:2–16
Read the passage in full, then use the tabs to compare how the major English translations render it.
Tip: read the passage at least twice before moving on. Notice how Paul appeals to apostolic tradition, creation, angels, nature, and the practice of the churches.
NASB 2020
New American Standard Bible, 2020 edition.
Study the Case
Read it or listen to it.
The study path gives people two ways forward: read the case through the five reasons, or listen to it through a concise or comprehensive sermon option.
I'd Like to Read
Five biblical reasons.
Work through the case one reason at a time, following the flow of Paul's own argument in 1 Corinthians 11.
Reason 1
Apostolic Tradition
Holding to what has been delivered to us.
Reason 2
Creation Order
Paul roots the symbol in the order of creation, not in a local custom.
Reason 3
Angels
Paul explicitly appeals to the unseen heavenly audience.
Reason 4
Nature
Paul appeals to nature’s witness about masculine and feminine distinctions.
Reason 5
Church Practice
Paul concludes by appealing to the shared practice of the churches of God.
I'd Like to Listen
Two recommended sermon paths.
Choose a concise overview if you want the argument in one sitting, or a comprehensive series if you want to work slowly through the passage.
Get answers to your remaining questions.
Still have questions? After studying the passage, use these resources to work through remaining objections or practical concerns. If something still feels unresolved, you can ask other Christians in the community.
FAQ
Find answers to the questions that usually come up first.
Articles
Read answers to common questions, objections, and practical concerns.
Videos
Watch answers to common questions, objections, and practical concerns.
Ask the Community
Bring remaining questions to people who are willing to help you think them through.
Go Deeper
Read the full book-length case.
For a fuller treatment of Scripture, church history, objections, and practical questions, continue with Jeremy Gardiner’s book Head Covering: A Forgotten Christian Practice for Modern Times.
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