God has interacted with humanity through various dispensations, each with its unique rules and guidelines. In the time of Jesus, women were not counted in gatherings, but in the new dispensation, the Bible declares that there is neither male nor female. The Corinthian Church, with its polygamists, prompted Paul to address the issue, highlighting the disorderly nature of the church.
In our current dispensation, God’s ideal for marriage is clear: one man, one wife. This raises important questions for those considering polygamy. What did you promise your first wife before marriage? Is a second wife truly a priority?
The Consequences of Polygamy
I am troubled by the notion that polygamy is a blessing. The lives of David and Abraham, often cited as examples of polygamy, were marked by crisis and tragedy. David’s family experienced public rape, death, rebellion, and humiliation, while Abraham’s polygamy led to a legacy of conflict and terrorism.
The consequences of polygamy extend beyond the individual, affecting generations to come. Many from polygamous homes will attest to the challenges and discourage others from pursuing it. The greatest difficulties often arise after the head of the family passes away.
Monogamy: God’s Perfect Will
Marrying one wife is a significant responsibility, and I believe it’s the only viable option. If possible, I would prefer to marry half a wife, but only from the navel down, not up. Life is about vision, purpose, and choices. Time is an impartial judge of right and wrong.
Not all men in the Old Testament practiced polygamy; Isaac, for example, had only one wife. The New Testament establishes monogamy as the standard for the church, recognizing the devastating consequences of polygamy.
Grace, Sin, and Consequences
Smoking, excessive speed, and driving against traffic have severe consequences, and ignoring what is right is sin. God knows the consequences of polygamy, which is why He made husband of one wife His standard in the New Testament church.
David’s victories did not excuse his actions, and God still considered him a man with blood on his hands. There is a difference between God’s permissive and perfect will. Follow the perfect will of God.
Polygamy is not God’s intent for humanity. It has its opposite in polyandry, and I see the desire for polygamy as a narcissistic approach to marriage. Marriage reflects the relationship between the church and Christ, requiring spiritual enlightenment to understand.
Faithfulness in marriage is essential, and I distrust those who are unfaithful to their spouses, believing they may betray others for personal gain. Let us focus on more pressing issues of self-development, rather than perpetuating harmful practices like polygamy and adultery.
I remain your friend, Dr. Charles Apoki. You are my responsibility.
