Faithful discernment for the church in the face of divorce and remarriage, grounded in God's enduring design for marriage.
In Ephesians 5, the apostle Paul calls marriage a profound mystery that is related to Christ's love for His Bride, the church. Jesus was also clear about God's design for marriage and rebuked His opponents who had made divorce commonplace.
Even so, the Bible records many broken marriages, and many Christians, families, and churches continue to suffer the tragedy of divorce. What is the church to do? In Divorce and Remarriage: Ecclesiastical Discernment and Pastoral Care, Benjamin T. G. Mayes examines God's Word and articulates principles drawn from Lutheran history that provide guidance to individuals, pastors, and the church. Scripture provides direction for the church to faithfully adjudicate situations and call people back into the unity that God desires.
This volume helps readers: Faithfully interpret Jesus' and Paul's teaching on marriage, divorce, unchastity, and desertion
Distinguish between valid and wrongful divorce, and between true marriage and unions Scripture cannot recognize
Understand when remarriage is biblically permitted-and when it is not
Apply church discipline, repentance, and restitution with both clarity and care
Address contemporary challenges such as pornography, abuse, emotional abandonment, and complex family histories
Clarify how these teachings apply to pastors themselves, including the "husband of one wife" requirement

An essential resource for pastors, elders, and church leaders navigating one of the most challenging areas of Christian ministry.