AboutJoe Norman Expertise I can answer questions regarding acceptable worship, organization of the church, or any apsect of the Christian life. I am the son of a preacher and have studied the Bible from cover to cover since I was 12 years old. I am strong in my research skills and do not follow teachings of men. Many will label me as conservative and some might label me as liberal, but I just seek to be biblical. I understand proper exegesis and hermeneutics and apply them. My desire is to share my knowledge of God's Word with others. Please always keep in mind that none of us who are listed as experts here are divinely inspired and therefore it is possible to get incorrect answers from any one of us. Study the Scriptures and decide for yourself if what is taught is true.
Experience I am the 4th generation in my family to be a faithful member of the church of Christ. I was raised by a preacher and have studied the Bible everyday since I was twelve. I am 44 yrs old now. I am not a "scholar", but I am very familiar with the scriptures.
Organizations member of the church of Christ, served as a Deacon for a few years at LakeShore church of Christ in Waco, Tx. I currently live in the North Dallas area and worship with the Lewisville church of Christ.
I just read your views on divorce and remarriage and I have to say I am VERY curious (as I am divorced and would love to scripturally remarry). Can you please provide me with your studies of reference with regard to your previous discussions on this topic, e.g., definition of words, Jewish law of divorce (3-step process), the school of Hillel and the school of Shammai, etc. I would REALLY like to study this information. Thank you so much for at least giving me hope.
Answer Hi Joe,
I appreciate your question. I will be more than happy to provide you with the things I have studied. I am not an expert in Hebrew, Greek, or Aramaic, but I do my best to research thoroughly and provide accurate information regarding specific words of the manuscripts and what experts have learned as to their meaning when I think it helps those who are seeking answers. I can share a list of things I have read in my research.
In regard to the schools of Hillel and Shammai, I found many websites that spoke of them and they have been detailed in all the books and debates as well as many of the articles I have studied. Just do a search on the internet for the schools of Hillel and Shammai with the word divorce.
The three steps of Jewish divorce are clearly seen in Deut.24:1-4 as well as in the gospels. Notice as well that God said He gave Israel a bill of divorcement and put her away in Jer.3:8.
The best book I have read on divorce and remarriage is called, "When Marriages Bomb, There Is A Balm In Jesus Christ" By Lavelle Layfield It was published in 2003 and printed by LayMar Publishers in Athens Texas. The only thing I disagree with brother Layfield on is that I do not believe that divorce in every case is a sin. I am not sure that brother Layfield even thinks divorce is always a sin, but there were times when reading his book that I got that impression.
I have also read the book, "Not Under Bondage" By James D. Bales. I also have studied many debates on divorce and remarriage as well as commentaries, articles, sermons, and websites. My most trusted resource is and always will be the Bible though.
In regard to word definitions, there are several.
A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament By Arndt and Gingrich
A Manual Grammar of the Greek New Testament By Dana and Mantey
Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words By W.E. Vine
Manual, Greek Lexicon of the New Testament By G. Abbott-Smith
Thayer's Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament By John H. Thayer
I also use e-sword Bible software when putting together any Bible lessons. I also recommend the Billingsly-Deaver debate on Marriage, Divorce and Remarriage; Fundamental Bible Studies By Dan Billingsly; Smith-Hicks debate published by Gospel Truths, Inc.; Hick-Mac Deaver debate published by Gospel Enterprises; and Questions Answered By David Libscomb and E.G. Sewell.
I also highly recommend a website that has large amounts of information to study on this as well. Here is the link below:
Go to that link and there is a section on the left titled Marriage and Divorce. When you click on that, there are numerous articles, sermons, and debates for you to study as well as links to other good sources on the internet.
My understanding has changed some, but not much. My biggest concern is that many do not seem to understand that there is a difference between consequences of a sin and a punishment of a sin. They also do not understand what is involved in repentance.
The "traditional" teachings on divorce and remarriage as I call them are contrary to God's grace. When someone divorces for reasons like, a burnt meal or snoring, etc...I believe that they are sinning by getting that divorce. I don't know anyone who would not agree.
Now what was the sin specifically in such a case? It seems to be covenant breaking does it not? Such a person does not consider his vows to be of much value. How would that person repent if his former spouse no longer wants him back? Of course he would have to confess his sin before his local church family, but what is involved in his repentance? He needs to turn from the sin of covenant breaking. That means if and when he enters into a new marriage, he must remain faithful to his covenant.
I do hope that I have answered your question adequately, but feel free to ask me more questions anytime. If you need anything clarified, just let me know that as well. I pray God's blessings on you.
