Was Paul a sexist and a homophobe or do we still have to listen to him?

[Blackrook]

Paul said women have to be silent in the church, and yet many modern day pastors, priests, and even bishops in Protestant denominations are women.

Paul said women should cover their heads in church, but that rule was abolished during Vatican II.

Paul had very unkind words about homosexuality, considered it a sin, and yet we see clergy and even bishops openly practicing homosexuality.

Was Paul just some crank who we don't have to listen to anymore?

That appears to be what's happened to his teachings.

 

[HaShev]

Just as asked with Jesus,
Who do you say was Paul? (Which figure was Paul?)
Just as Jesus is a compiled figure given a new name, so is Paul.
So which of the many figures used to create Paul are you calling Paul?

 

[Meriweather]

Paul said women have to be silent in the church, and yet many modern day pastors, priests, and even bishops in Protestant denominations are women.

Paul said women should cover their heads in church, but that rule was abolished during Vatican II.

Paul had very unkind words about homosexuality, considered it a sin, and yet we see clergy and even bishops openly practicing homosexuality.

Was Paul just some crank who we don't have to listen to anymore?

That appears to be what's happened to his teachings.

Paul was addressing specific situations that were taking place in his day.

1. Women came to Church with their husbands, did not understand what was going on and were asking for an explanation/to be taught right then. Paul was saying women should save their questions for later because bringing them up during the service wasn't the time.

2. In Biblical times wearing a veil was a woman's protection from advances from men. It wasn't a fashion statement.

3. Paul had hard things to say about sex in general--particularly sexual misconduct.

In today's culture, Paul seems to be saying, Ladies, wait until after Church to have discussions with your husband, and also, it's not the place to flirt. Finally, there is more to life than sex. Your first priority should be your spiritual life. This sounds like advice still worth listening to.

 

[Blackrook]

Just as asked with Jesus,
Who do you say was Paul? (Which figure was Paul?)
Just as Jesus is a compiled figure given a new name, so is Paul.
So which of the many figures used to create Paul are you calling Paul?

This thread isn't about whether or not there was a Paul, it's about whether or not we should give authority to his teachings.

But it appears that the Christian churches are now treating Paul like the crazy old bigoted grandpa in the armchair who no one listens to any more.