Expert: Rev. Stuart Woodward - 6/2/2010

Question
Hello!

I'm a student studying a novel called Fifth Business, by Canadian author Robertson Davies. In the novel, a Baptist minister's wife commits adultery with a tramp, and I'm wondering: Would he, as a Baptist minister, believe that some of guilt and blame should fall on himself? Or would he consider it entirely her fault, and that she was the one to blame? Essentially, would the church think that he was to blame for her actions?
I realize that you don't know him personally, but I'm writing a paper on the characters' different takes on shame, and I was wondering how, theologically speaking, the Baptists would approach a matter like this one.
I'm a Christian myself, but this is not something I've ever experienced, and I don't know Baptist theology particularly well.
Thank you so much! And God bless you and your work.

Answer
Hello Ally,
Thank you for your question. The case you raise is hypothetical and so is impossible to answer other than in generalities as every case of adultery is different. It is possible that the lady finds herself neglected by a minister obsessed by his work. She could feel starved of affection etc. It could be that she is simply a lady with a high sex drive and an easy prey to temptation - many could bes!!
I am English and minister in England and so can only answer from my perspective over here.
First the lady carries the guilt of her own actions. There are many tings that can explain why we do wrong things but they never justify the wrong choice. She needs to repent and seek the forgiveness of God and her husband without looking for others to blame.
Secondly the husband would have to be very insensitive not to take a serious look at himself and see where he has contributed to his wife's problems. In this area he too may well need to repent and seek forgiveness.
In this country the main Baptist group to which I belong would be incredibly supportive and offer counseling to both as well as helping negotiate with the church a time away from the pastorate of perhaps a month or two to help the couple rebuild. The denomination would also help if it was felt a move of pastorate was best.
Could the marriage be saved? Certainly it could but it would need great honesty and a foundational renewal of commitment. I have known many marriages survive and adulterous relationship and eventually thrive, including ministry situations.
I hope these comments are of some help to you.
May God bless you.
Stuart Woodward