Excuse the delay, brother: I answered this question earlier, but I must have hit "Preview" instead of "Submit," because I don't see the post.

I don't have any wives, as a matter of fact; I was divorced, against my will, by my second wife 16 years ago. I seriously doubt that I'll be getting married again; the idea terrifies me! But, as the Jews say, "Do you want to make God laugh? Tell Him your plans!"



To answer your real question: After my first divorce, I remarried (obviously), and was married for a number of years. During the time of my second marriage, I did not committ adultery or bigamy; I was faithful to my lawful wedded spouse, and so I had one living wife. I was indeed "the husband of one wife."

I believe the pertinent verse applies to bigamy, not remarriage. You can make the case against divorce/remarriage, or divorced men serving in the ministry, without using that verse.

As I said in an earlier reply, I think the notion of "ruling one's house well" is applicable; but, it's quite possible for a remarried man to do that.

Is it ever God's will for a divorced/remarried man to be a pastor? Yes, I think it is. "The gifts and calling of God are without repentance."

In my own case, I do not think that my marital history would be an asset in counselling, or in preaching on the subject of marriage, and I do not intend to return to the pastoral ministry. But it's not because I think I'm "disqualified;" it's because, in my own personal judgment, it wouldn't be prudent.

And, although I am specifically not referring to you, I think that this subject engenders more hypocrisy and self-righteousness among ministers than nearly any other.

And, by the way, I agree with Here Am I: God most certainly did divorce Israel in the Old Testament. The book of Hosea is pretty clear on the matter!