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It seems that the mindset of some is to punish those who
have made a mistake in their choice for a life-long partner in
marriage. Some deny it while others admit it, contending that it is
God's way of helping to assure that marriages are for a life-time. The
thinking of many seems to be that if you are divorced you have
committed the unforgivable sin, unless you initiated the divorce
because of adultery on the part of your spouse. Again, most would deny
such because they do indeed believe that divorce is forgivable; they
just are determined that the sinner, in this case, reap the
"consequences" of his sin, as they call it. The "guilty" one, i.e., the
one who was unfaithful, must then remain celibate the rest of his days,
or until the other spouse dies. Is this position consistent and
biblically sound? Must one who has been divorced actually be required
to live a celibate life if he is to show signs of repentance?
(Consider: 1Cor7:2;8,9).
Now, I realize that we all understand that murder is
forgivable as well as any wrong one may have done that involved
divorce, if one repents, confesses and asks for forgiveness. This
article is not about the process of forgiveness but is merely an effort
to help others see how tradition can influence one's thinking and to
encourage us to look only to the scriptures for authority as to who has
a right to a marriage.
Now, suppose that for hundreds of years brethren had not
tolerated murderers in their midst. It was simply the tradition of
churches that once one committed murder he could not then be a
Christian because grace does not cover such a hideous sin. He had to be
punished and this was their way of assuring that it was done. Why, to
fail to teach this doctrine would "result in the churches being filled
with murderers."
But then some learn and begin to teach that the grace of
God covers ALL sins, including murder. They even teach that people who
have repented are to actually be forgiven, allowing them to live a
normal life. Some of the traditionalists, however, are determined to
not allow this new doctrine. They argue that one who has committed
murder has no hope of heaven and that we must not fellowship them. When
reminded that the apostle Paul had committed murder they become silent,
as far as making any arguments. Their response is to adopt various
evasive maneuvers (commonly known as dodges) and to inhibit or destroy,
by all means, the influence of the “false teacher” who opposes their
teachings.
Sound familiar? Is not "divorce and remarraige" the
"litmus test" for a "sound" gospel preacher among many who hold the
traditional view? Yes, and in most cases not only is it true that those
who have been divorced must "reap the consequences", those who do not
tow the line must do so as well. Thus, though seldom admitted, the
divorced (even if they were innocent) must suffer the consequences. Why
would one hold such a position, one might ask? Because they were taught
that this is what Jesus said, but It most certainly was not.
The only lesson intended here is that “tradition” can
actually become one's authority. No sound scriptural argument will be
received by one whose authority is "tradition" if what is said
contradicts their thinking. When serious problems with their
position(s), or even obvious contradictions, are pointed out they will
not be seen as difficulties but merely as “head-scratchers” to be
shrugged off as unimportant. I know that this is hard preaching, but
before one can fight an ailment that he has he first must be honest
about the symptoms and recognize the disease.
When it comes to the subject of divorce and remarriage
is "tradition" your authority? Are your eyes really open to what the
Bible says? Are you hearing and receiving sound arguments that are
contrary to what you have been taught? Are you sure you believe and
teach the truth regarding who has a right to a marriage? [1Cor7:2;7,8;
1Tim4:1-3] I plead with you to consider the possibility that the
"traditional" position may be wrong. I urge you to develop a love for
truth that will motivate you to search for it diligently. When you find
the truth and practice it your mind will be at ease because you will
know you are following God's word, rather than merely tradition.
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