ONE WIFE AT A TIME?!

The Bible gives us the qualifications of church leadership. Of course, the King James Version refers to these leaders as "Bishops" (in other words overseers). One of the qualifications is to be the "husband of one wife."

1 Timothy 3:2 2A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach;

Through the years I have heard people make light of this and say that "husband of one wife," means, "one wife at a time. Of course, that is one of the most absurd interpretations of the Scriptures that I have ever heard and denotes per scholarship. The other interpretation has been an admonition against polygamy.

The interpretation of "one wife at a time” is not in harmony with Scripture; as there is no limit. Does one wife at a time mean one per year? Where does it end? So that is not the interpretation.

Polygamy was not that prevalent in the time of Paul. Even so many Westerners misinterpret the practice; citing David, Solomon, etc. However, those were kings. Polygamists had to have tons of financial resources to support such a large group of people. The average person could not afford this. Thus, it was not as major of a practice as one would think.

But, back to 1 Timothy 3:2, the original language defines "husband of one wife" to mean, "To be faithful and loyal to your spouse." In other words, how can you lead God's people and you are cheating on your spouse. You are to be committed financially, spiritually, physically, etc. THIS is what the Scripture actually means.