Category: MDR

Most people do not like bottom line preaching. When you get to the bottom line, there are only two choices given to all people: the narrow way that leads to life and the broad way that leads to destruction. That is the bottom line. There is no tolerance on the bottom line for “what if’s?” or maybes. We either teach the truth or we are promoting adultery. There are only two choices. Which one will you make?

It is right to point out the inconsistencies in a man’s argument. It is right to name those who poison the minds of the brethren with their error, (as did Paul). It is right to contend publicly with public error and sin. It is not always pleasant, but it is right. In contrast, it is never right to impugn the motive of any man. It is not right to falsely accuse, and attribute positions which have not been argued. Anger is inappropriate, as is hatred, pride and arrogance.

If aliens are not amenable to Christ’s law regarding divorce and remarriage, aliens are not amenable to the Gospel instructions in general. For instance, if an alien is not amenable to the Gospel’s instructions, how can we oppose the use of instrumental music in denominational worship? Are they not aliens? How could the practice be judged sinful for aliens if the regulation of the gospel does not apply to them?

In recent years, many discount the teaching of Matthew 19:9 on marriage, divorce and remarriage by saying, “Jesus’ words do not apply to alien sinners, but only to citizens of the heavenly kingdom.” Cultural accomodationists tell us that lost mankind is not accountable to the gospel, but rather answers to some vague and undefined “universal moral law.” How does one answer such heresy? First, it must be acknowledged that the Bible affirms the concept of a universal moral law (Rom. 2:12-16). However, the question is this: Where did such a code originate? Is it innate, inborn, instinctive and intuitive? Or, is this so-called universal moral law based upon man’s memory – however dim – of divine revelation?

While this brief review does not do justice to the debate, hopefully it has helped contribute to the study of marriage, divorce and remarriage by furthering the material it contains. We are thankful for the willingness of these men to discuss their convictions and for their good deportment during the debate. Debates can do good.

It is disappointing to see a historian of Ed’s caliber show such a lack of objectivity and be so obviously biased against the truth as he is in the above reviewed chapter. All in all, in spite of Ed’s other writings which influenced this reader’s view of the above reviewed chapter, brother Harrell has authored a book that is worth reading.

Transcription of Sermon by Harry Pickup, Sr., on the subject of Marriage, Divorce & Remarriage. Preached at Palatka, FL in 1958.

Transcription of sermon on Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage. Preached by Harry Payne, Sr. at Palatka, FL (1958)

Transcription of sermon on Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage. Preached by H.E. Phillips at Palatka, FL (1958)

Transcription of sermon on Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage. Preached by Homer Hailey at Palatka, FL (1958)

It is my sincere plea that you will open the scriptures as you honestly and objectively read the sermons which were preached in Palatka, Florida over forty years ago. The Truth will always stand the test of examination. Those of whom it is said: “…they received not the love of the Truth that they might be saved…” (II Thessalonians 2:10) will sadly come to know that “it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” (Hebrews 10:31).

Charts: Lesson 6 (Divorce, Remarriage and Fellowship)

A myth has been promoted in many areas about God’s teaching on marriage, divorce and remarriage (mdr) that it is too difficult to understand, that there is a lack of clarity concerning it, and that there are so many divergent views none can be sure about the actual truth. This is fallacious and a charge against the integrity of the inspired message of God. The Holy Spirit speaks to reveal, not conceal; to edify, not confuse; to unify, not divide. God has revealed the whole truth (Jn. 14; 16); it is understandable (Eph. 3:4; John 8:32), and we are foolish if we don’t understand it (Eph. 5:17).

Be on guard for the bleeding hearts who think they are better than Jesus. Jesus commands repentance. Must we forgive without repentance? Can there be true repentance without the fruits of that repentance being known? Can a thief keep his stolen car? Can an adulterer keep his unlawful sex partner? Think about it.

By keeping “marriage” and being “bound” by law distinctive in our minds, we can see that two people can be bound and scripturally married to one another (Matthew 19:5-6; Romans 7:2). One can be unmarried, but bound (I Corinthians 7:10-11). One mate can be unmarried but bound, while the other mate is free to remarry (Matthew 19:9). And, One mate can be bound to his first mate, while unscripturally married to another (Mark 6:17-18, Romans 7:2-3).

There are few families today that have not been touched by divorce. As society continuously degrades into worldliness and rebellion towards God, there is a reciprocal effect upon God’s people. Many of the current issues concerning this doctrine have risen due to complex situations in the lives of all people. There was not as much controversy in times past, because the problem was not so prevalent.

Is an adulteress one who sees the Justice of the Peace to contract a second marriage? Or, is it not true that the Bible portrays the adulterer and adulteress as ones who have sex outside their God-ordained marriage or ones who have sex with a married person?

The scriptures teach clearly that we must not have fellowship with fruits of unrighteousness or darkness. While some brethren apply this uniformly to sinful practices like instrumental music, institutionalism, etc., they are willing to forsake truth and extend fellowship to unrighteous divorces.

Marriage is for life, but if one mate commits sexual immorality, that one can be put away, divorced for that infidelity, and the innocent one in that divorce has the right to be married to another. Jesus speaks of but ONE exception and one exception only to the law of marriage for life. It is not a hard law to understand, but, in too many cases, a hard law to apply. Is that God’s fault for making the law or man’s for not wanting to submit to it?

God views marriage as a covenant which is holy. He created it in the beginning of time. We must approach this covenant carefully knowing its rules and binding nature. Women carry some special responsibilities in marriage including managing the house, loving their husband and children, and submission to their own husband. Christian women should choose carefully who they marry: looking for a faithful Christian man upon whom to place their affections.