This is a complex issue with reasonable arguments on both sides. Ultimately, the Bible does not give a definitive age when women should stop teaching boys in a church context. There are several factors to consider:
The Bible affirms women teaching
The Bible affirms women teaching and leading in various contexts. Deborah was a judge and prophetess who led Israel (Judges 4-5). Priscilla helped teach the eloquent Apollos about Christian doctrine (Acts 18:24-28). Older women are instructed to teach younger women (Titus 2:3-5). So women teaching men is not categorically prohibited in Scripture.
The Bible restricts women teaching in church gatherings
1 Timothy 2:11-12 says “Let a woman learn quietly with all submissiveness. I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; rather, she is to remain quiet.” 1 Corinthians 14:33b-35 says “…For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints, the women should keep silent in the churches. For they are not permitted to speak, but should be in submission, as the Law also says.”
These verses suggest women should not authoritatively teach men in church gatherings. So there are some restrictions on women teaching men.
Application to boys is unclear
The application of these verses to boys is not entirely clear. At what age do boys become “men” who women should not teach? There is room for different views on this.
Some believe that once a male is old enough to participate meaningfully in church gatherings, women should no longer exercise teaching authority over them. This may be around middle school ages.
Others think restrictions on women teaching do not apply until boys reach adulthood or the age of spiritual maturity. There are disagreements over exactly when that transition happens.
Consider developmental and spiritual maturity
Given the lack of definitive biblical clarity, wisdom should be used in applying teaching restrictions. The age, developmental stage, and spiritual maturity of the boys being taught are relevant factors to weigh.
Younger boys likely benefit from women teachers and are not yet “men” in the sense Paul restricts. But older teenage boys on the cusp of adulthood may fit better under male spiritual authority. Paying attention to maturity, rather than just physical age, is wise.
Prioritize edification and order
In this issue, our priorities should be the same as Scripture’s – the edification of all and orderly worship. If women teaching boys of a certain age would violate biblical principles of male spiritual headship and cause disorder, then age-appropriate restrictions should apply.
But if the teaching contributes to the growth of male and female students alike, honors God, and promotes peace, then gifted women teachers should be welcomed as part of Christ’s body.
Delegate with discernment
Church leaders should exercise discernment, wisdom, and sensitivity when deciding who teaches which age groups. This involves carefully evaluating the spiritual maturity and needs of students as well as the gifts of teachers.
Delegating teaching responsibility primarily based on gender risks minimizing the gifts the Spirit has distributed among all believers, male and female. But ignoring biblical principles about gender roles in the church can also go too far. Seeking balance is wise.
Aim for unity and godliness
Sincere Christians interpret this issue differently. Strive for unity in the faith by discussing differing views humbly, respectfully, and biblically. Focus on growing in godliness, not just being “right.”
Ask the Lord for wisdom if unsure about women teaching boys in your context. Earnest prayer and meditation on Scripture are needed to make careful application in grey areas like this.
Acknowledge complex factors
There are complex cultural and historical factors that shape how this issue is viewed. Be self-critical and consider how cultural biases regarding gender may unconsciously influence your perspective.
Also recognize that practical realities like teacher shortages may factor into application. Seek to honor biblical principles while exercising wisdom, grace and patience with tough ministry challenges.
Aim for a godly teaching environment
More important than the gender of the teacher is whether the teaching environment nurtures godly reverence for Christ and His word. The most gifted teacher can still fail students if the learning culture dishonors God.
So rather than becoming divisive over debatable matters, aim for unity in fulfilling the Great Commission and raising up lifelong disciples of Jesus. That goal is best accomplished in a gracious, prayerful, Spirit-led environment.
Conclusion
There are good-faith disagreements among Christians regarding when and how women should transition out of teaching boys in a church setting. Seek to apply biblical principles with wisdom, discernment and grace. The appropriateness likely depends on the specific context and the developmental stage of the young men being taught. Strive for an edifying, orderly, Spirit-led teaching ministry that helps all believers become mature in Christ.
