This topic is so “hot” in many congregations in the church that have and are still teaching that those who have been through divorce and have remarried (unless fornication is proven) must (in order to be members of that church/be saved).

Yet there is a growing number who being ‘caught somewhere in the middle,’ are doing more in-depth study. Not just study but earnestly studying this problem. Why? Well it is my opinion for what it’s worth, that many are really striving to understand what the truth is, so they don’t cause (more) unnecessary pain to an ever-growing sector of the population who for some reason have or are experiencing this real pain of divorce (not to mention the children involved). Their struggle to find the truth is sincere and good. It is on the hearts of all I suppose that we don’t have a copyright on all truth or understand everything in Scriptures. Nevertheless we are encouraged to study (2 Timothy 2:15), “search the scriptures” (Acts 17:11), and of course “Scriptures” here referred to the Old Testament. However the principle of THE NEED TO BE A TRUE STUDENT AND SEARCHER IS MADE.

Now not all brethren including myself are Hebrew/Greek scholars, and therefore we need real help. Many books are found when searching this topic, but the question of which to choose is a source of concern.

These are my recommendations:
1. Jay Guinn’s little book, “BUT IF YOU DO MARRY” which is a free download book found on his website/blog www.oneinjesus.info under the “Books by Jay” drop down. I am impressed with the ease of reading, the depth of study, the explanation of the original language, as well as the intent and application. He is fair and kind in his work, sincere in his study.
2. Jay Guinn’s website/blog (mentioned above) if you do a SEARCH for “divorce” will give you a multitude of articles on this as well as a multitude of responses to which Jay usually gives response. So My take is he is open and honest and capable of dealing with the pros and cons. You will gain much from this consideration of the topic.
3. Olan Hicks little book, “GOD’S LAND OF BEGINNING AGAIN,” if you can get it. In this it offers a refreshing look at this important topic. Extremely helpful for congregation who wish to have a DIVORCE RECOVERY class.
4. Olan Hicks College Press commentary on Divorce and Remarriage is an in-depth look at this topic. When I say “in-depth” it is an understatement, but very helpful.
5. Olan Hicks book on “DIVORCE REMARRIAGE AND REPENTANCE” available and easy to find on the internet.
6. Researching this topic in the Archives of Abilene Christian University for people like Rubell Shelly (author of “DIVORCE AND REMARRIAGE, A REDEMPTIVE APPROACH”), Leslie G. Thomas’ work on Sermon on the Mount, or Divorce and Remarriage. All are helpful. Just do the research.

Bottom line:
There is help available! Have an open mind, be honest, sincere, and you will find there is hope for the divorced and remarried… and more especially for elders and congregations struggling with those hurting and looking for hope in Jesus. There is hope.
Jay asked the pointed question, “IS THERE MORE GRACE FOR THOSE OUTSIDE CHRIST COMING INTO CHRIST THAN FOR THOSE IN CHRIST?”
Trite simple responses are not enough for ardent students of Scriptures.

Grow in grace brethren as well as in truth.