DIVORCED PASTORS

[savedbygrace]

In most Christian churches, divorced brothers are sometimes discouraged from entering into the ministry because of the statement in 1 Tim.3:2 "the husband of one wife." Although most Christians recognize that God does not like divorce, is this what the Scripture in I Tim.3:2 is referring to?

[Heidi]

I think what scripture is referring to is the idea that it is much easier for people to believe God's word if it is coming from someone whose life reflects that he takes it seriously. But the Apostle Paul was a persecutor of Christians and even a murderer before he was chosen by God. Therefore, anyone can preach the gospel, but it's hard enough to lead people to Christ, and even harder if it comes from people's whose lives don't reflect Christ's message. Therefore, in this day and age, I think it wise to follow Paul's words.

[AG Man]

This is my opinion on this subject. I believe if a man or woman has been divorced while living in sin, before coming to the full knowledge of salvation. If they were to remarry and accept Christ as their Savior and either be called into the ministry, who are we to judge. Behold all things become new. Old things are past away.

Now if a couple which both are born again decide they cannot live together and decide to divorce. They remarry  and then should feel the call to ministry, I believe would be another matter. (Matthew 5:31,32). But again   God is the final judge, not I.