Churches Of Christ/Marriage/Divorce/Remarriage

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Expert: - 3/7/2011


Question
I just read your excellent article and I do know what the Bible teaches on this subject.I was wondering how God looks at a divorce where abuse is involved and the situation will never change and only gets worse.
Yours in Christ

Answer
Hi Connie,

Although I am not aware of any scripture which directly addresses spousal abuse, I am convinced that God sees spousal abuse as a form of adultery or unfaithfulness to your spouse and the marriage covenant. When a couple marries, they vow to God that they will love each other and take care of each other in sickness and in health, for better or worse, until death parts them. The husband is to love his wife as Christ Jesus loves the church and gave His life for the church. If a husband abuses his wife he is in essence abusing himself because the two are supposed to be one flesh.

God cannot be happy with any abuse in a marriage. When it's clear the abuse will not stop and will only get worse then obviously divorce is necessary for the safety and survival of the abused spouse. I am convinced abuse is a legitimate reason for divorce. If you are being abused get out before your husband ends your life. I recommend getting in contact with a women's shelter as soon as possible.

In Christian Love, Joe Norman  

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Joe 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 45 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 am still very active within the church of Christ teaching, leading Bible Studies, and songleading as well. I am also actively involved in online ministry. I hope to open my own webpage eventually.

Education/Credentials
School of hard knocks

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