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: I have actually been studying this passage. It is actually somewhat disturbing that there are so many strange "interpretations." St. John Chrysostom and John Calvin both said the primary meaning was to forbid polygamy. Protestants have pretty much stuck to that interpretation. About 100 years ago we start to see a new interpretation in the Baptist ranks that this passage literally teaches someone who has been widowed or divorced is excluded.... sort of an unforgivable sin situation. This view has been promoted by Dallas Theo. Seminary and some of their intellectual satellites. Some of the best treatments of this passage are by recent commentators. They seem to see get a broader understanding than Calvin etc. yet still affirm it is a prohibition against polygamy. They also don't seem to have the problems with eisegesis that afflicted JFB, and Chuck Swindoll. I recommend George W. Knight III [NIGTC) and John MacArthur, and also Lenski's treatment is good. |