Others have sought to set aside the general application of this divine instruction by saying that it only applies to the time when all are together in the assembly. This is a great mistake, and is easily discerned by noticing that a woman is not permitted to speak in the assembly (1 Cor. 14:34); how then could she be given instruction how to act when prophesying in the assembly? The one verse would contradict and nullify the other if it meant that her head was only to be covered when in a meeting. The instruction of this portion is for men and women at any time, and in any place. It would be just as wrong for a man to pray to God with his hat on in the privacy of his own room as it would be in public, and likewise it would be out of order for a woman to pray without having her head covered even when all alone at home.
Verse 16 strengthens the divine instructions. What was to be done in the assembly at Corinth was the same in all assemblies; it was not to be left to individual opinions, nor to local decisions. And there was no room for anyone to contend — there simply was no allowance of any other practice or custom. The case was closed and not open for argument.
Ever since Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden aspired to be “as gods” and fell, self-exaltation has been one of the worst weeds in the human heart. The first couple were not content with their lot and, seeking to exalt themselves, brought in ruin and misery. Blessed contrast in the second man — the Lord from heaven! He humbled Himself to the very depths, and now God has highly exalted Him. (See Phil. 2.) Blessed Saviour, may we all learn more of Thee!
One more word as to covering the head — may the Lord exercise Christian women to select millinery which is a “covering” when it is to be used for this purpose. How needful it is that we should be before the Lord as to the purchase of a hat, or “whatsoever” we do, that all may be pleasing to Him.
BTP #1927