← Back
Seth Freeman
Supporter
Why can't a preacher be ordained when his wife has been married before?
I am a God-called preacher and my baptist denomination says I can't be ordained because my wife has been married before. They use the scripture 1 Timothy 3:12, which says "a husband of one wife," which I am because I've only been married once. Just my wife has been married twice. Please help explain if you can, thanks.
1 Timothy 3:12
ESV - 12 Let deacons each be the husband of one wife, managing their children and their own households well.
Clarify
•
Share
•
Report
•
Asked June 08 2014
•
William Shiveley
Supporter
Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
Seth Freeman
Supporter
It all comes down to how one interprets Scripture. Personally, I think the accurate understanding of that passage is that Paul was saying that a man could not be in a polygamous marriage. We know from Scripture that there are instances where both divorce and remarriage are not sin. So it doesn't make sense for Paul to say that a bishop (or any church leader) needs to have only been married once. I think your denomination has gotten this one wrong. Perhaps yet another reason why I'm not a Baptist =D
Add your Answer
All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.
A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.
- Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
- Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
- Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
- Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
- For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible