AboutRev C.Brian Ross Expertise I am happy to offer answers to anyone with a question that refers to the Christian Faith in its widest possible sense. I believe that the Bible is the living Word of God, and seek to base all of my life on its teaching. I also have some knowledge of some of the cults, and of Islam and Judaism. Of course, my answers are just one man's thoughts, and I would always advise a questioner to check with others, and with the Word of God.
Experience Served as a full-time parish minister in Scotland for about six years, and then spent the last thirty as a teacher (now 'retired') of Religious Education in Secondary Comprehensive schools (ages 11-17) while continuing my own preaching and teaching ministry. I also believe that learning is a life-time process, and have recently completed a Master's degree in Divinity.
Organizations Former Presenter on Revival FM - a local Christian, community radio station, broadcasting in west central Scotland, and online at revival.fm Involved with a number of organisations that support Christians who are currently suffering persecution in some 70 countries around the world.
Publications Various articles in Christian magazines. I also have two blogsites - www.crazyrev.blogspot.com and (with audio messages) www.revcbross.blogspot.com
Education/Credentials Diploma of The Bible Training Institute, Glasgow;
Licentiate in Theology of the University of Glasgow;
Associateship of The Philosophical Society of England;
Bachelor of Arts Degree (Hons) in History from The Open University;
Post-grad Certificate of Education - Religious Education and History;
Post-grad Cetificate in Learning and Teaching;
Post-grad Diploma in Management and Learning in Education;
Master of Science Degree from the University of Strathclyde;
Master of Divinity Degree (Hons) from Trinity College and Seminary (accredited by the University of Liverpool)
Question Could you explain Hebrew 13:4 to me? I do not see how this relates to a couple being faitful to each other.
Answer Dear Fred,
Thank you for your question - although I have to admit that I find it to be rather puzzling! If I understand you correctly, you are saying that you are UNable to understand how Heb 13:4 relates to marital fidelity. The verse reads: "Marriage should be honoured by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral." (NIV) I am obliged to say that, given the repetition of the word "marriage" (gamos), it is clearly the covenant relationship between a man and a woman, as instituted by God Himself, that is being referred to by the writer of the letter.
I should point out that, in the Greek language, the second reference to marriage is implicit, rather than explicit. However, the term used (koite - the conjugal bed) is defined by Strong as ¡NT:2845 ; from NT:2749; a couch; by extension cohabitation; by implication, the male sperm.¨ All of this, I would suggest, gives ample warrant for the addition of the word ¡"marriage" in the English-language translations. It is patently clear to me,and to any commentator whose work I have consulted, that this injunction applies solely, and totally, to the institution of marriage, and the importance of marital fidelity. Indeed, one could very easily extrapolate from it, teaching on chastity before marriage as well! It is not only the adulterer (who must be married) but also the sexually immoral (covering fornication - illicit sexual activity by the unmarried) who are to be judged. However, I should add that where sin is confessed, and where there is true repentance, then God will forgive such sinful behaviour. (I John 1:9).
We live in an age when the prevalence of AIDS/HIV, and of broken families are, in themselves, sufficient reason to claim that this teaching is desperately needing to be applied to every life. Indeed, as I write, I am conscious that today is the day set aside to remember AIDS/HIV victims.
I hope that I have been able to provide sufficient evidence to show that these words not only relate to a couple being faithful to one another, but that they could not be justly interpreted in any other way.
In His service,
C. Brian Ross (Rev)
