What advice would you give to a Christian husband and wife who are considering separating with a view to divorce, to encourage them to continue together?
In the absence of any details one can only offer some general advice. The apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 7.10-11 gives teaching to believing married couples who may be having difficulties in the marriage bond. It is clear that because of such a situation separation for a time may be allowable, though not advisable; but if one partner should leave the other the only two options possible are that the partner who has left should not marry, or should consider reconciliation. It is instructive that divorce is not envisaged in the passage. The idea of incompatibility in the marriage relationship is not seen as a basis to enter into divorce proceedings. It is very sad that a Christian husband and wife should consider such a move.
This couple should be encouraged to seek grace from God to stay together, to remember their marriage vows, and not to separate for at least three reasons.
1. For the Lord's sake. In the citation above Paul has in view Christ's teaching in Mark 10.2-12 and Luke 16.18. He is confirming the command of the Lord. It therefore follows that the very idea of separating with a view to divorce would be most grieving to the Lord. 2. If the couple have any children, then for their children's sake they should stay together. It is not without significance that immediately following the Lord's teaching on divorce in Mark 10 we have the touching scene of children being blessed by Him (vv.13-16). Very often those who suffer most in marriage break-ups are the children. Christian parents who have been given children should seek to fulfill their responsibilities as parents. How damaging to a child's life divorce can be. 3. For the testimony's sake. Christian marriage should be a strong witness for Christ in a decadent society. God instituted marriage that it might be a model of the relationship between Christ and His Church. This is clear from Ephesians 5.22-33.
What a lowering of the marriage bond it is when Christian couples cannot get on with each other, and what a poor representation of Christianity is presented to the world when either separation or divorce takes place. The couple mentioned should consider these things in order to prevent what really would be a disaster.
John J Stubbs
How long does one remain in an assembly when sisters no longer wear head coverings and are able to take part publicly? What about saints who have no opportunity to go to another assembly?
The question which has to be addressed is, "What constitutes a New Testament assembly?". A local church is composed of baptised believers (Acts 2.41), gathered to the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ (Mt 18.20). Such a company meets regularly (Acts 2.42) in a particular locality (1 Cor 1.2) according to the pattern laid down in the New Testament.
Each assembly is a spiritual fellowship, meeting for the breaking of bread, worship, prayer, and the teaching of the Word of God. The company will acknowledge the sole authority of the Word and the sovereign control of the Holy Spirit who indwells them. Spiritual gifts are recognised which are exercised under the direction of the Holy Spirit and for the edification of the church. Godly order in the assembly is a priority. The respective positions of men and women are recognised, the women, with covered heads, remaining silent. The assembly is also the centre for gospel outreach (1 Thess 1.8).
It has to be acknowledged that it is possible that a newly-planted group of Christians may not have been fully taught the truths relating to the assembly and may need instruction regarding the position of women. Sadly, however, there are several groups of believers today who once functioned according to New Testament doctrine but have deliberately set aside certain aspects of this teaching. The uncovered heads of the women and their public participation are indicative of some more deep-rooted opposition to the plain teaching of Scripture.
The present writer, in the early days of his Christian experience (over 40 years ago), found himself among such a company and despite his efforts to point out the inconsistency of such practices with the teaching of the Word over a period of ten months was ignored and had to leave the company, having concluded that it was not truly a New Testament assembly. These comments may serve to help the questioner.
One's heart goes out to believers finding themselves in such a situation, who have no opportunity to become associated with another New Testament assembly. Under these circumstances it would not seem to be appropriate to plant a new assembly in the locality.
David E West
