Instone-Brewer, D., Divorce and Remarriage in the Church. Downers Grove, IL. Inter Varsity Press, 2003.
Introduction
Instone-Brewer’s
“Divorce and Remarriage in the Church: Biblical Solutions for Pastoral
Realities” acknowledges various viewpoints in formulating one’s perspective on
the morality of divorce. The author demonstrates a strong knowledge of societal
trends and historical contexts for this very contentious topic. The book
further addresses problems that were not heavily expounded upon in the bible,
such as cases that involve spousal abuse. Moreover, the author recognizes that
the institution of marriage can be very difficult to maintain even when abuse
and infidelity are not factors, thus providing grace for those who must trudge
though it when such circumstance arise. This difficulty is especially realized
when one understands the various components affecting many married couples who
also have children, careers and other responsibilities. The negative and
positive impact of these factors is typically dependant on the relative health
of the marriage itself.
Benefits
This
book provides the reader with a broad understanding of the complex issues surrounding
divorce. It is a well-organized, easy to use reference guide on a very
difficult and highly debated subject, yet it is recommended to be read from
cover to cover in order to get the full perspective. The author argues that
repeated or unrepentant acts constituted as abusive can be grounds for biblical
divorce and free the innocent party to then remarry. Instone-Brewer makes a very
strong case against the concept of divorce only being acceptable in the case of
infidelity, all the while showing that marriage is a sacred contract that
should, in most every situation, be preserved if at all possible.
Instone-Brewer
recounts his first interview for a pastoral job and his uncertainty with regard
to questions about this difficult topic. By acknowledging the acceptance of a
divorce’s merit in a case-by-case review, the author demonstrates his ability
to interpret the bible practically into everyday life. Further, Instone-Brewer recognizes
that all marriages have specific and sometime very complex problems that do not
have a “one size fits all” solution. Merely treating divorce and those affected
by it as taboo or somehow “unforgiveable” is simply not a biblical approach.
Unlike some other works, this book
acknowledges that divorce is not a new concept. In fact, divorce was common
during the Roman Empire. Acknowledging these historical facts when working with
parishioners or couples going through this difficult situation can be helpful
in understanding they are not alone. The author further discusses the period of
the Old Testament when polygamy seemed to be condoned. Even so, in polygamous
relationships the man could not deprive his first wife of certain things or she
would be free to divorce him. Although polygamy is no longer an accepted practice
in our culture, adultery and abuse can both be related to this ancient law;
helping people to know when divorce is appropriate.
Instone-Brewer relates the act of divorce directly to the
original sin commitment by Adam and Eve. Prior to this event God had created
the perfect world with a perfect union between man and woman. Yet, after the
Fall of mankind, imperfections, such as divorce, came into the world. Relating
this infamous biblical story to modern life helps pastors and church
professionals answer questions as to why such difficult circumstances and
choices must be made. There are no easy
answers when it comes to tearing a part something that God put together, but
knowing God is in the midst of loving both individuals involved is certainly
welcomed “good news.”
Limitations
The author discusses how various
Christian denominations handle divorce and remarriage. However, since many
denominational groups do not readily agree on the concept of divorce, the
situation of two people from different backgrounds getting remarried can be
quite contentious. The subject of how to
practically lead the couple to a working compromise is not adequately
addressed.
Additionally, the author never fully addresses grounds or
methods for preserving marriage. The historical perspective of divorce is well
covered, yet the reader is left wondering what might have been a better
solution as it relates to future choices. Though these concepts may have been
beyond the scope of the author’s intent it would have provided more practical
guidance for readers seeking to avoid such tragic ends.
Conclusion
The
author demonstrates a strong knowledge of divorce and its application throughout
the history of the world. This book will
serve as a great reference guide for pastors seeking to answer difficult
questions and circumstances as they arise in the church. Unfortunately, such cases are much more
prevalent in today’s quick fix and noncommittal culture. Ministers cannot remain uninformed and
passive when addressing real life circumstances. This book not only serves ministers in
addressing these circumstances, but to do so from a biblically supported and
well-educated position.
