The NIV 2011 says this: "I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man; she must be quiet" whereas most other versions, including the 1984 have something along these lines "I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; rather, she is to remain quiet." (ESV)
I have seen that this is the most controversial point in the NIV 2011 and I am wondering your thoughts on it. I understand where some people get an egalitarian interpretation of this verse due to the word "assume" instead of "exercise." For those that hold to a complementarian view of the role of men and women from the church. What do you think of the NIV 2011 rendering?
It is my understanding that the passage refers to women seizing or usurping authority, for want of a better word.
With that said, the ancient beliefs of the Orthodox Church might not be what some expect.
Priests are men. Always. Only men even enter the altar area of the Church (unless there is need, such as if a woman may be given the task of maintaining the area. But from altar boys, to deacons, priests, bishops, etc. are only men.
HOWEVER ... we recognize some women in Scripture as being "equal to the Apostles". Aside from ordained clerical roles, women can fulfill any position necessary. The evidence is that this understanding was present in the early Church. Women are not subjugated to men, and the Gospel is much more a cultural equalizer of men and women than an imposer of strict hierarchy in all things.
Coming from a background that tended in the opposite direction, it was an eye-opener to me that nowhere are women told to be subject to men in general, only to their own husbands.
Even that role can be misunderstood, because while men are given headship in the family, we also see an admonition that husbands and wives are to submit to one another. It is also very important to consider that husbands are to love their wives AS Christ loved the Church, giving Himself up for her. A husband's role is not meant to be that of a dictator, but of a servant leader, as Christ was.
It can't really be taken in pieces and fully understood. And I expect this part or that will likely not set well with various persons, because of their beliefs. But taken as a whole, and fully appreciated, I believe it to be the wisdom of God. Seen in action, when faithful to the principles, it is a joy to behold.