[frgoff]

Actually, 1 Tim 3:2 is an argument in support of polygamy existing in the primitive church. Otherwise, why the admonition that Bishops are to have but one wife? It's a meaningless qualifier unless there are Christians in polygamous relationships within the church.

[lwg8tr]

God tolerated lots of behavior he thought sinful. The Israelites wanted a king and God begrudgingly let them have one. Does this mean that God condones the monarchy cause he tolerated it? Let's tear down our government and erect a monarchy cause it's the way the ancient Israel was governed by one. Silly isn’t it? Same as the errant teaching that God condones polygamy, slavery, and revenge. It's a problem some people have not interpreting scripture correctly, by not taking into account the historical and culture reference when doing biblical interpretation. I personally like Hank Hanegraff and the Christian Resource Institute, he's known as the "Bible answer man". He eloquently debunked the Mormon justification for polygamy.

[Z.Hobbs]

"Actually, 1 Tim 3:2 is an argument in support of polygamy existing in the primitive church. Otherwise, why the admonition that Bishops are to have but one wife? It's a meaningless qualifier unless there are Christians in polygamous relationships within the church."

There was and probably always will be some polygamy in the church. Why? Because divorcing a 2nd or 3rd wife if worse than the polygamy in the first place.

But polygamy has always been the exception so there will always be individuals (bishops or elders) whom God can entrust to teach the truth of his plan, including one man one wife, without the compromise of having to justify their own lifestyle.

Simply put, a polygamist is not to be revered as a respected teacher in the Christian church.

[RKV]

Yep. Probably were polygamous before conversion. It isn't really a good thing to abandon several wives just because you became a Christian. Wouldn't suggest it as a model for current times - pretty clear that the family dynamics are, well, bad for all concerned. I am pretty tired of a few of the know-it-alls here who seem to think they have it figured. Personally, I admit I don't know all the answers, am a sinner, and generally don't trust those who a) have all the answers and b) are spiritually proud. Kind of like a certain poster whose name here starts with "Ra."

[Lester Moore]

Actually, 1 Tim 3:2 is an argument in support of polygamy existing in the primitive church. Otherwise, why the admonition that Bishops are to have but one wife? It's a meaningless qualifier unless there are Christians in polygamous relationships within the church.

A good observation that deserved reposting.

Kinda' obvious after you think about it for second.