Old Testament - multiple wives

[paulwpetrea]

Greetings:

I have an issue, one I hope others here may be able to help me with.

I was brought up in a Methodist home, the youngest of the family. After a major experience that changed my life (fell a long distance and lived), I became a Christian, Southern Baptist.

Well, in going by the teachings of either faith, I have always "believed" that I am only supposed to have one woman for me, not two. Well, over the past eight months, those thoughts have changed, because I feel the same way, well similarly, toward two women that I know. I am in love with both.

So, now what? If both are accepting, is it right for me, if I feel it is right. I have always been taught to respect and obey God's Law above man's. However, now, I am quite confused.

Help?

[otseng]

I believe it was God's intention for marriage to be between one man and one woman. Though the Bible does have several instances of polygyny, I wouldn't say that it specifically allows it. I believe it is more of the culture during those times. Also, I cannot recall any Biblical "law" that allows multiple wives. Just because something is recorded in the Bible does not necessarily mean that God endorses it.

[paulwpetrea]

Anyone else? I appreciate all replies.

Thanks,

[paulwpetrea]

Anyone else? I appreciate any replies.

Thanks!

[Jester]

Anyone else? I appreciate any replies.

Thanks!

I have no idea if this is still timely, but would add that the Bible always portrays polygamy as a disaster. It's advice seems to be that it is setting one's family up for a great deal of pain.

[McCulloch]

I believe it was God's intention for marriage to be between one man and one woman. Though the Bible does have several instances of polygyny, I wouldn't say that it specifically allows it. I believe it is more of the culture during those times. Also, I cannot recall any Biblical "law" that allows multiple wives. Just because something is recorded in the Bible does not necessarily mean that God endorses it.

But neither does he condemn it. Clearly having excessive numbers of wives is said to be a bad thing, but up to four, like Isaac, not condemned.
Having concubines is not condemned either.

[Jester]

I believe it was God's intention for marriage to be between one man and one woman. Though the Bible does have several instances of polygyny, I wouldn't say that it specifically allows it. I believe it is more of the culture during those times. Also, I cannot recall any Biblical "law" that allows multiple wives. Just because something is recorded in the Bible does not necessarily mean that God endorses it.

But neither does he condemn it. Clearly having excessive numbers of wives is said to be a bad thing, but up to four, like Isaac, not condemned.
Having concubines is not condemned either.

While that is a very valid point, I would defend the Old Testament in that a reading of it leaves one with the distinct impression that polygamy is always a disaster. While there is, unfortunately, no direct condemnation of the practice, it does paint it in a negative light.

[Joonwoo]

I think that the question really is... Who do I love more? God or woman?
In a sense, women are a gift from God, don't abuse it.

And ask yourself, would you rather live without woman, or live without God?



Kind of off topic here but... I like to think that I know a thing or two about love myself.
If you had to choose, you should ask yourself some questions as to why you "love" either of these women.
What about them fulfills you? If it is mostly about sex, then reconsider for sex is also a gift from God which shouldn't be abused.
Which person can you live without?

Don't worry, and another bit of advise, ask God. Give your problems and worries to God so that he may rid of them for you...