Genesis

Jesus has some very strong teaching on divorce, and remarriage. As was referenced in the message and on the previous post.

There are two extreme reactions that I have seen with those teachings. 1)We can become modern day Pharisees and let legalism and judgment drive us. 2) We can put this teaching next to God’s grace and say all is forgiven in such a way that we don’t recognize the sin.

The clarity I have found is in the balance. It is not fair to make a blanket statement that remarriage is a sin. If only God can break a one flesh union then we have to believe if it is his will to do so, he can. That is what God’s grace is sufficient is all about. What is impossible with man, is possible with God. Jesus says in Revelation that he makes all things new. He often encountered people and they left not only forgiven, but changed. From that day forward who they were no longer affected who they were to become. A born again experience, the old is drowned and the new is born. (Prime Example: The apostle Paul)

Now, this is a fine line to walk. This is not a teaching that says to do as you please. This is not a blanket statement that says all remarriage is in God’s will. It is simply saying, if God desires to do so and to bless a new marriage and a new union that is well within his will and grace to do so. I have seen this in people. One example: A first marriage that was not healthy. A first marriage that was not Godly. I have seen years later that person being led, by God, to a new relationship. In many ways, a healing relationship. We have to know we have the God of second chances.

The truth is this goes much deeper than second marriage. God has a design for us. A desire for us, as he created us. A plan for marriage, for relationships, for our lives. It is broken in every way. We have broken it in every way. I pray this helps us all to see the grace, not the judgment. But like Paul says in Romans, do not take this as license to do as we please. “Should we sin all the more, because Grace abounds?” We need to be in constant repentance and seeking what God desires of us.

I apologize if an incomplete teaching on Sunday has caused old wounds to be re-opened. My prayer is that we will be a place to find grace and healing, not a place to be judged.

But, let us be honest about our mistakes, humble in our confession and thankful for God’s grace. For without it, every one of us is lost.

I love you all!

Pastor Ben