Bible Question: Perhaps I'm misinterpreting, but it seems to me that the Bible recommends that church leaders be married men with one wife. The Catholic denomination permits unmarried men to be leaders, and other denominations permit women to become leaders. Are they in harmony with the Bible's teachings? |
Bible Answer: Wow, this question got some interesting and enthusiastic responses! Good question, remember the great apostle Paul was not married, so there is certainly no restriction on unmarried men being pastors. A previous answer used our Lord Jesus as an example, but that, in my view, is inappropriate, we are His children for Him to marry one of us would be unusual. Also, He will have a bride (the church) and He came to redeem her (kinsman redeemer; see Ruth), so one could say that our Lords future bride was the motivating force behind His leading. Women seem to be restricted from such service according to I Tim 2:9-15, but there are differing opinions on the interpretation of those verses. I believe Paul encourages any male leader with a need, to get married (I Tim, Titus), thereby, avoiding temptation. But, Paul also states that he wishes all men/women were as he is, or single, to focus completely on the Lord. (I Cor 7:7) I do see a problem with the catholic practice of unmarried priest, Paul states clearly that if a person has a desire for sexual relations s/he should get married "rather than burn!" with sin (I Cor 7:9) When these men burn with passion and yet cannot get married it could cause all sorts of sexual problems with the priesthood. Which raises another question, why is it that we are asked to "overcome" all sins of the flesh, with the exception of sexual lust? If we have this desire we should satisfy it in a Biblical manner (marriage; one woman), but still it is treated differently than other lusts of the flesh! Great question! Let me know any other thoughts! GOD bless!! |