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Can a Divorced Man Pastor a Church?

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Can a Divorced Man Pastor a Church? ...by Pastor Philip Ayers Can a divorced man pastor a church? This is a greatly debated issue among conservative believers. Those of you who know me realize I am very conservative in my doctrine and Biblical interpretation. However, I do interpret the Bible differently from other Conservatives when considering the allowing of divorced men to pastor. Most believe that a divorced man cannot serve as a pastor or in a leadership role within the local church. First Timothy 3 lists the qualifications for bishops (pastors, elders). The controversial second verse says, "The husband of one wife." Many believe this means literally one wife or never have been divorced. Others suggest it refers to bigamy or one wife at a time. Some teach it means a man must be married in order to serve, thus removing single men from any opportunity of leadership service.  These interpretations lead to many other problems. What about a man who pr...

When Your Marriage Is Dying..

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Unforgiveness is like acid; it destroys the vessel in which it's stored .      The very word reconciliation c auses many separated couples to break out in a cold sweat. They panic at the thought of exposing their battered hearts to another potential beating. They're certain they can't face another rejection or betrayal. Sadly, few people are taught how to guard their heart and require trust to be re-earned when the cove nant has been broken. They're so determined to avoid being vulnerable, they won't entertain thoughts of reconciliation. Yet, even marriages that have gradually decayed over many years can be restored. Let me state clearly that I detest divorce; the devastation involved is heart-wrenching. I firmly believe it should be avoided if at all possible. I am totally committed to marital restoration and would dance a jig if a "going out of business" sign could be hung on my divorce-recovery ministry. However, the reality is that it ...