To the Reader: I have written this article in response to our lax views of divorce and remarriage. And I must say I would rather be writing about our common faith and salvation we have in Christ Jesus. However, I felt compelled to expose this sin which has crept into our churches today. Because if we become like those of this world, what good are we? For Jesus said: “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how will it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out to be trampled under foot by men.” (Matthew 5:13 LSB)

Therefore, it is my hope that we as faithful Christians can put away this sin from among us. And let’s not forget that Jesus also said to love our neighbor as ourselves. So then, we should want to see a couple’s marriage flourish. Therefore men, if you marry a divorce woman, you could permanently destroy her chance to be reunited to her husband. And this is also true for all you divorced women. Shouldn’t you remain single and be pleading with God to restore your marriage? For by running off and marrying another man, you could destroy any chance of reconciliation as well. Therefore, true love should always be seeking to reunite one’s marriage, not to further divide it. For we must take heed to what Jesus said: “What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.” (Matthew 19:6 ESV) Amen.

“And Pharisees came up to him and tested him by asking, “Is it lawful to divorce one's wife for any cause?”” (Matthew 19:3 ESV) 

In that passage above, the Pharisees confronted Jesus on his view of divorce. So: “He answered, "Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.” (Matthew 19:4-6 ESV) But not being content with that answer: “They said to Him, Why did Moses then command to give a bill of divorce and to put her away? He said to them, Because of your hard-heartedness Moses allowed you to put away your wives; but from the beginning it was not so. And I say to you, Whoever shall put away his wife, except for fornication, and shall marry another, commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is put away commits adultery.” (Matthew 19:7-9 MKJV)

So, according to Jesus, the standard for marriage should be “until death do us part.” However, because of their hard hearts, Moses allowed them to put away their wives. Therefore, God gave them over to their own corruption. We see this also to be true where Paul the apostle said: “And because they did not think it worthwhile to acknowledge God, God delivered them over to a corrupt mind so that they do what is not right.” (Romans 1:28 CSB) However, God sent his Son Jesus Christ to set things back to their proper standard by saying: “So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” (Matthew 19:6 NET)

So, to sum up what was mentioned above, a man who puts away an innocent wife and marries another commits adultery. Also, a divorced woman who marries another man commits adultery with him. And as long as they’re in this adulterous relationship, they are committing sin.

Below are a few more verses on this topic:

• But I say unto you, that whosoever shall put away his wife, except for cause of fornication, makes her commit adultery, and whosoever marries one that is put away commits adultery. (Matthew 5:32 DBY
• And he said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her, and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.” (Mark 10:11-12 ESV)
• Everyone who divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery, and he who marries a woman divorced from her husband commits adultery. (Luke 16:18 ESV)

“It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father’s wife.” (1 Corinthians 5:1 KJV)

Here above, we read of a man who is having sex with his father’s wife. Now, I personally believe that this is not his biological mother but his father’s second wife or concubine as we see happening in Genesis 35:22. Now, we do not have the details of their sexual misconduct. However, we do see the Greek word for “fornication” being used to describe this sinful act. So, shouldn’t the husband of this woman have the right to divorce his unfaithful wife? For Jesus did say “except for fornication” in Matthew 19:9, which should include any unlawful sexual act that happens before, during or even after one’s marriage.

Now, the reason I’m bringing this up is because there are some who claim that the word “fornication” can only refer to a wrongful sexual act that happened before the marriage. In other words, the husband discovers on his wedding night that his wife wasn’t a virgin. So, those who claim this are trying to make marriage so binding that a man can’t divorce his wife for any wrongful sexual act that happens during their entire marriage relationship. However, I firmly believe that a husband can put away his unfaithful wife anytime during their entire marriage. For even Strong’s Definitions concerning fornication says: “porneia; harlotry (including adultery and incest); figuratively, idolatry: —fornication.” So, we see that the word “fornication” can include not only adultery, but all sexual sins.

“And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst, They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou?” (John 8:3-5 KJV)

Okay, there may be some who would argue saying that any sexual misconduct was dealt with by stoning, not divorce. And even though that was generally true, we see that there were exceptions both in the Old Testament as well as the New. For didn’t God spare David and Bathsheba the death penalty for their unlawful sexual misconduct? (2 Samuel 11) And let’s remember that Jesus did show mercy to the woman who was caught “in the very act” of adultery in John 8:3-11. And of course, we have Joseph showing mercy to Mary when he found out she was pregnant. For even though he assumed she conceived through fornication, he still didn’t want to expose her publicly. So, even though these cases were normally dealt with by stoning, we see mercy and forgiveness being shown instead. For throughout the bible we can see God’s grace being displayed.

And let’s remember that the disciples by the leading of the Holy Spirit gave their instruction to the gentile church. For they said: “Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God: But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood.” (Acts 15:19-20 KJV) Now, please notice that it doesn’t mention the word adultery, but only fornication. So, couldn’t we conclude that the word fornication can include the act of adultery as well? I do believe so my brothers and sisters in Christ.

Below are more passages that only use the word “fornication” to describe all sexual sins, which of course would include adultery:

• Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. (1 Corinthians 6:18 KJV)
• But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. (Ephesians 5:3-4 KJV)
• Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. (Colossians 3:5-7 KJV)
• For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honor; Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God: That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified. (1 Thessalonians 4:3-6 KJV)
• And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood: which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk: Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts. (Revelation 9:20-21 KJV)

“For the married woman is bound by law to her husband while he is living; but if her husband dies, she is released from the law concerning the husband. So then, if while her husband is living she is joined to another man, she shall be called an adulteress; but if her husband dies, she is free from the law, so that she is not an adulteress though she is joined to another man.” (Romans 7:2-3 NASB95)

Throughout the scriptures, we can see that only the man has the right to divorce. For even in the Old Testament, Moses in Deuteronomy 24:1 only mentions men having the right to divorce there wives. And in the New Testament, we already read that Jesus only allowed men to put away their unfaithful wives for the cause of “fornication.” But concerning a wife he said: “And if a woman shall put away her husband, and be married to another, she committeth adultery.” (Mark 10:12 KJV) This is the only passage that mentions a woman divorcing her husband, yet there is never any exception clause that gives her the right to do this.

Now, there may be times that a wife may need to get away from an abusive husband. This would be true for both her safety and any children she may have. For we read: “And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife.” (1 Corinthians 7:10-11 KJV) However, even in this case here, she still isn’t allowed to divorce and remarry someone else. For she should be praying for her husband and hoping that things would get better so that they can be reunited together again.

Okay, from everything mentioned so far, we can see that this exception clause is only given to men. Now, this would be true even if there was another woman involved in his relationship. For after the fall, there were godly men who had more than one wife. This included Abraham, Jacob, and King David to name a few. However, their wives never had the legal right to divorce them. And let’s also remember what God said to David: “I gave you your master’s house, and put your master's wives into your arms. I also gave you the house of Israel and Judah. And if all that somehow seems insignificant, I would have given you so much more as well!” (2 Samuel 12:8 NET)

So, after King Saul’s death, God gave to David all Saul’s wives to be his. This I believe God wouldn’t do if this was considered adultery? For the prophet Habakkuk said concerning God: “You are too just to tolerate evil; you are unable to condone wrongdoing.” (Habakkuk 1:13 NET) And let’s take note that this, “into your arms” mentioned above is the same wording that Sarah used in Genesis 16:5 where she said to Abraham: “So Sarai said to Abram, “May the wrong done to me be upon you! I put my slave woman into your arms, but when she saw that she had conceived, I was insignificant in her sight. May the LORD judge between you and me”.” (Genesis 16:5 NASB20) However, that all being said, I’m in no way encouraging any man to build himself a harem. For I’m just showing that according to both the Old and New Testament, there is no exception clause that gives a wife the right to divorce. So, please read on to see what an ideal marriage should look like.

“Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.” (1 Timothy 3:2-3 ESV)

So, Paul said to those men in leadership position must only have one wife. So, the question is, why must these men be restricted to only one wife?” Well, having more than one wife could interfere with one’s roles in the church. For it’s hard enough to keep up with one honey-do-list, let alone having them come from multiple wives. Also, we read that there was much contention for those men who had more than one wife. And let’s keep in mind that God only brought one wife to Adam. For even Jesus himself said “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh?” (Matthew 19:5 NKJV) Therefore, leaders and deacons in the church should set an example of what an ideal marriage should look like for all. And again, wouldn’t that be “one wife for life?”

And most importantly, let’s not forget what happened to King Solomon who had many wives. “But king Solomon loved many strange women, together with the daughter of Pharaoh, women of the Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Zidonians, and Hittites; Of the nations concerning which the LORD said unto the children of Israel, Ye shall not go in to them, neither shall they come in unto you: for surely they will turn away your heart after their gods: Solomon clave unto these in love. And he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred concubines: and his wives turned away his heart.” (1 Kings 11:1-3 KJV)

So, we read that God warned that “they would certainly turn away your heart after their gods.” And unfortunately, that happened. “For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, [that] his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the LORD his God, as was the heart of David his father. For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians, and after Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites. And Solomon did evil in the sight of the LORD, and went not fully after the LORD, as did David his father. Then did Solomon build an high place for Chemosh, the abomination of Moab, in the hill that is before Jerusalem, and for Molech, the abomination of the children of Ammon. And likewise did he for all his strange wives, which burnt incense and sacrificed unto their gods.” (1 Kings 11:4-8 KJV)

So, what did God do? Well, sense there is much to read on this, you must open your bible and read it for yourself in 1 Kings. But I will say that it’s didn’t go well for Salomon. So again, let’s just stick to “one wife for life.” Amen.

Below are some other issues that occurred because of men having multiple wife’s:

• “In the days of wheat harvest Reuben went and found mandrakes in the field and brought them to his mother Leah. Then Rachel said to Leah, “Please give me some of your son's mandrakes.” But she said to her, “Is it a small matter that you have taken away my husband? Would you take away my son’s mandrakes also?” Rachel said, “Then he may lie with you tonight in exchange for your son’s mandrakes.” (Genesis 30:14-15 ESV)
• There was a man from Ramathaim Zophim, from the hill country of Ephraim, whose name was Elkanah. He was the son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephraimite. He had two wives; the name of the first was Hannah and the name of the second was Peninnah. Now Peninnah had children, but Hannah was childless. Year after year this man would go up from his city to worship and to sacrifice to the LORD of hosts at Shiloh. It was there that the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phineas, served as the LORD's priests. ... Her rival wife used to upset her and make her worry, for the LORD had not enabled her to have children. Peninnah would behave this way year after year. Whenever Hannah went up to the LORD’s house, Peninnah would upset her so that she would weep and refuse to eat. (1 Samuel 1:1-3, 6-7 NET)

“But if the unbelieving partner separates, let it be so. In such cases the brother or sister is not enslaved. God has called you to peace.” (1 Corinthians 7:15 ESV)

Now, we have read earlier that only a man can put away his wife for fornication. Therefore, would this passage above be giving some “exception clause” for a woman to divorce and remarry? For notice that Paul uses the Greek word which means to be “enslaved,” instead of the word “bound,” which means to tie the knot. Therefore, isn’t marriage a mutual commitment that binds two people together? But on the other hand, bondage (enslavement) is something that makes your life miserable. And this could be the case if you are married to an unbeliever? And remember that in verses 12 through 17, Paul is only giving his advice for their current situation. For he admits that he DID NOT receive this from God. For he says: “But to the rest I say, not the Lord” in 1 Corinthians 7:12.

Therefore, Paul is not giving any “deserted” woman the right to divorce, let alone to remarry. For that would be a contradiction not only to what Jesus said in the gospels, but for Paul as well. For as we read before, Paul says a few verses latter in this same chapter: “A wife is bound to her husband as long as he lives. But if her husband dies, she is free to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 7:39 ESV)

So, do not believe the false notion that an act of desertion by an unbeliever allows a man and woman to divorce and remarry. And wouldn’t it be an act of desertion as well in Jesus’ statement in Matthew chapter 5 as well as 19? For Jesus didn’t make any distinction concerning the persons religious stance, nor does he give any details of the couple’s separation. Therefore, this passage in verse 7:15 is only allowing the unbeliever to leave in order for a Christian spouse to live at peace? However, a Christian man or woman should be praying for their unbelieving spouse to come to know Christ. This of course would not only be for their salvation, but in order for their marriage to be restored as well.

“Because of the present distress, I think that it is good for a man to remain as he is. Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be released. Are you released from a wife? Do not seek a wife. However, if you do get married, you have not sinned, and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. But such people will have trouble in this life, and I am trying to spare you.” (1 Corinthians 7:26-28 CSB)

Now, this is another passage that’s being used to find some exception clause. But how can that be? For we must first take notice that verses 26, 27 and the first part of 28 are speaking of a man who is ether “bound” or “released” from a woman. And we know that a man can only be released from marriage if his wife has committed fornication or has died. Therefore, if he does remarry, he has not committed any sin. However, in the middle of these same verses, Paul makes it clear that a virgin woman (not one who is divorced) who marries has not sinned. So again, Paul is not giving any divorced (or abandoned) woman the right to remarry someone else.

Now, as said before, there may be times that a woman would flee from her husband for safety reasons. However: “But if she shall depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife.” (1 Corinthians 7:11 Webster) So, Paul is saying here, “let her remain unmarried” which should clearly show that he is not allowing a divorce woman to remarry. Therefore, if a man is married to a divorced woman whose first husband is still alive, both the man and the woman are living in adultery, no exceptions.

“Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” (Genesis 2:24 KJV)

In that passage above, we read that a man and woman will become one flesh. Jesus reaffirmed this when he said: “For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife; and the two shall become one flesh: so that they are no more two, but one flesh.” (Mark 10:7-8 KJV) So, what does it mean to be “one flesh” in those passages above? Well, I have learned that this is not some metaphor, but a fact. For there are studies showing that the components of a man’s semen could be within a woman’s bloodstream a few hours of her receiving it. Also, studies have found male DNA being retained within the bodies of some women as well. This would make “the two shall become on flesh” more understandable and literally true.

So, all this should make it clear why women who played the whore were harshly dealt with. For they pollute their bodies by become “one flesh” with every man they have sex with. Paul the apostle himself said: “Or do you not know that he who is joined to a prostitute becomes one body with her? For, as it is written, ‘The two will become one flesh’.” (1 Corinthians 6:16 ESV). Therefore, brothers and sisters in Christ, shouldn’t we only become “one flesh” with that one person whom we want to spend the rest of our lives with?

Below are a few articles that show a woman literally becomes "one flesh" with every man she had sex with. Very sobering and true al well.

• Women receive and retain male DNA through sex - Article 1
• Women receive and retain male DNA through sex - Article
• Women receive and retain male DNA through sex - Video 1 

“They say, ‘If a man divorces his wife, and she goes from him and becomes another man's, May he return to her again?’ Would not that land be greatly polluted? But you have played the harlot with many lovers; yet return to Me,” says the LORD.” (Jeremiah 3:1 NKJV) 

In that passage above, we see an illustration of Israel who has backslid from God and turned to foreign gods. Yet, use an illustration of a marriage, God is pleading for her to put away her sin of harlotry and return to him. This is true even though he gave her a certificate of divorcement. For God still said: “I’m married to you” in verses 13-14. So, isn’t this illustration showing us that a divorced woman still belongs to the man she first married? Also, wouldn’t God only use an illustration that reflects a true marriage situation? Therefore, if a previously married woman remains is in the arms of another, they both are committing adultery. For scripture does say the only exception would be if her former husband has died as mentioned before.

Now, does God allow a divorced woman who marred another man return to her first husband? Well, even though this second marriage was not one which “God has joined together,” we do read: “And if the latter husband hate her, and write her a bill of divorcement, and giveth it in her hand, and sendeth her out of his house; or if the latter husband die, which took her to be his wife; Her former husband, which sent her away, may not take her again to be his wife, after that she is defiled; for that is abomination before the LORD: and thou shalt not cause the land to sin, which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance.” (Deuteronomy 24:3-4 KJV) So, Moses said: “for that is abomination before the LORD.”

Now that being said, this passage mentioned above was the latter portion of Deuteronomy 24:1-4. And according to Mathew 19:8-9, Jesus eliminated the first half of it. For he said it was Moses (not God) who gave that commandment. So, wouldn’t this eliminate the latter portion as well? Personally, I would say yes it does. But for you the reader, you need to decide this on your own. So, my advice for all you women who are put away (divorced), stay single and if it’s possible, pray that God would restore your marriage. This would be true whether you are the guilty party or not. For with God, it doesn’t make no difference as we read earlier. Because if you do remarry another man, you are both committing adultery according to God’s word. So, please follow what Jesus said instead of what some mislead friand or well-meaning pastor has told you.

Below are a few scriptures to consider:

• “And I saw, when for all the causes whereby backsliding Israel committed adultery I had put her away, and given her a bill of divorce; yet her treacherous sister Judah feared not, but went and played the harlot also. ... Turn, O backsliding children, saith the LORD; for I am married unto you: and I will take you one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion: And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.” (Jeremiah 3:8, 14-15 KJV)
• "And she shall follow after her lovers, but she shall not overtake them; and she shall seek them, but shall not find [them]: then shall she say, I will go and return to my first husband; for then [was it] better with me than now. ... Therefore, behold, I will allure her, and bring her into the wilderness, and speak comfortably unto her. And I will give her her vineyards from thence, and the valley of Achor for a door of hope: and she shall sing there, as in the days of her youth, and as in the day when she came up out of the land of Egypt." (Hosea 2:7, 14-15 KJV)

“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ “But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart’.” (Matthew 5:27-28 NKJV)

So, according to that passage above, a man who even desires another man’s wife has committed adultery with her in God’s eyes. Also, a few verses later Jesus continues to say: “Furthermore it has been said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.’ “But I say to you that whoever divorces his wife for any reason except sexual immorality causes her to commit adultery; and whoever marries a woman who is divorced commits adultery.” (Matthew 5:31-32 NKJV) So, whether you’re lusting after or are married to another man’s wife, we see the act of adultery being committed.

Now let’s take a look at what sandwiched in between those two verses. For it says: “If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell. “And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell.” (Matthew 5:29-30 NKJV) So, did you notice that it says: “pluck it out and cast it from you” as well as “cut if off and cast it from you”? So, isn’t Jesus in a metaphoric way say that one must do all that they can to put away an adulterous relationship?

And let’s remember what the children of Israel did when they were exposed of their wrongful marriages. For we read: “And Shecaniah the son of Jehiel, one of the sons of Elam, answered and said unto Ezra, We have trespassed against our God, and have married foreign women of the peoples of the land: yet now there is hope for Israel concerning this thing. Now therefore let us make a covenant with our God to put away all the wives, and such as are born of them, according to the counsel of my lord, and of those that tremble at the commandment of our God; and let it be done according to the law.” (Ezra 10:2-3 ASV)

So, we read that the children of Israel separated themselves from their wrongful marriage relationships. This they did even for those women who bore children to them. And wouldn’t this be an act of true repentance my fellow Christians? For just saying “I’m sorry” doesn’t mean you have the right to continue in your sin. For true repentance mean to put away your sins from you. Wouldn’t you agree?

“Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” (Romans 12:17-18 ESV)

Now, there may be some of you who declare that two wrongs don’t make a right. And I agree that this is true. For the first wrong would be for a man or woman to divorce and remarry. And the second wrong is to remain in that relationship which God has not joined together? For as quoted earlier, God does not tolerate or condone evil. (Habakkuk 1:13) And let’s remember what John the Baptist said when he confronted Herod who married his brother Philip’s wife. “For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her,” in which he lost his head for speaking the truth. (Matthew 14:4 KJV) Again, John said this because they were not in a relationship which God has joined together.

So, shouldn’t such couples be separating themselves from each other? Yes, I know that this is a hard thing to do. For even Jesus’ disciples said: “If such is the case of the man with his wife, it is better not to marry.” (Matthew 19:10) However, Jesus did say: “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, who will not receive many times more in this time, and in the age to come eternal life.” (Luke 18:29-30 ESV) Yes, brothers and sisters in Christ. If you’re in an adulterous situation, shouldn’t you be doing everything you can to get out of it. For didn’t Jesus made it clear when he said: “whoever marries her who is divorced from her husband commits adultery,” as well as: “Every one that putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery: and he that marrieth one that is put away from a husband committeth adultery”? (Luke 16:18 ASV)

Therefore, just saying “I’m sorry” to God doesn’t give you a license to remain in your sinful state. And let me ask you this; if you stole a wallet full of money, can you keep it and spend the money if you felt sorry and repented before God? No, of course not. For true repentance should cause you to return the wallet you stole? We can see this to be true when Jesus confronted Zacchaeus. For after spending time with Jesus, Zacchaeus must have felt convicted. For he said: “‘Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.’ And Jesus said to him, ‘Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham’.” (Luke 19:8-9 ESV) Yes, Jesus said: “Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham.” (Luke 19:9 KJV) So, this is something to seriously consider and be praying about fellow Christians.

“Your glorying is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, since you truly are unleavened. For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us.” (1 Corinthians 5:6-7 NKJV)

Now, if we as a church allows couples to remain in an adulterous relationship, wouldn’t others be influenced to do the same? Because the reasoning would be, “if they can get away with it, we can do the same.” Therefore, if these same couples remain together, it could cause sin to multiply within that fellowship. So, let’s take heed to what Paul the apostle said: “Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 6:9-10 ESV)

Also, we must be aware of the warning in Sirach 23:22-28 (which was a part of the original King James bible for around two hundred years before it was wrongfully removed) where we read: “Thus shall it go also with the wife that leaveth her husband, and bringeth in an heir by another. For first, she hath disobeyed the law of the most High; and secondly, she hath trespassed against her own husband; and thirdly, she hath played the whore in adultery, and brought children by another man. She shall be brought out into the congregation, and inquisition shall be made of her children. Her children shall not take root, and her branches shall bring forth no fruit. She shall leave her memory to be cursed, and her reproach shall not be blotted out. And they that remain shall know that there is nothing better than the fear of the Lord, and that there is nothing sweeter than to take heed unto the commandments of the Lord. It is great glory to follow the Lord, and to be received of him is long life.” (Sirach 23:22-28 found in the Original KJV)

That’s a heavy passage above for those women who have left their husbands for another. So, brothers and sisters in Christ, we shouldn’t be asking, “what does it hurt to stay together.” And let’s remember what Jesus said to the adulterous women whom he saved from stoning, for his said: “go, and sin no more.” (John 8:11) Jesus said the same thing to the lame man whom he made whole. For Jesus said to him: “Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.” (John 5:14 KJV)

Consider some other passages below:

• Little children, let no one deceive you. Whoever practices righteousness is righteous, as he is righteous. Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil. No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God's seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning, because he has been born of God. By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother. (1 John 3:7-10 ESV)
• We know that everyone who has been born of God does not keep on sinning, but he who was born of God protects him, and the evil one does not touch him. (1 John 5:18 ESV)

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9 KJV)

So, there is hope for all of you who are caught in the mess of adultery. I say this because the Lord Jesus Christ took our sins upon himself. So, shouldn’t you be taking the next step and repent by putting away your sin. For how can you have true peace when you know you’re in an adulterous relationship. You must remember that God loves you and doesn’t want you to die in your sins. And as said before, true love does no harm to one’s neighbor: “For the commandments, “Do not commit adultery, do not murder, do not steal, do not covet,” (and if there is any other commandment) are summed up in this, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no wrong to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” (Romans 13:9-10 NET)

So, my brothers and sister in Christ, please consider all what was mentioned here. Read and study God’s word for yourselves to test what I said. And let’s remember that God always gives us the strength to put away your sins, no matter how deep we’re caught up in them. “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.” (Isaiah 1:18-20 KJV) Amen.

• Divorce & Remarriage – Dr. Mike Gorrie
• Divorce & Remarriage – Joseph Webb
• Putting Away an Adulterous Marriage

Below are all the different versions used in this article. These I have included to help you in your study of God’s word:

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• CSB = Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017, 2020 by Holman Bible Publishers.
• NET = The NET Bible®, New English Translation Copyright © 1996 By Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. NET Bible® is a registered trademark The NET Bible® Logo, Service Mark Copyright © 1997 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved.
• NKJV = New King James Version, © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. All rights reserved. Used by permission.
• ASV = New American Standard Bible Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• LSB = Copyright ©2021 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved. Managed in partnership with Three Sixteen Publishing Inc. LSBible.org
• DBY = In 1867, John Nelson Darby translated the New Testament from Greek into English. Further revisions were done in 1872 and 1884. Darby’s work was first published as The Holy Scriptures: A New Translation from the Original Languages by J. N. Darby. After Darby’s death in 1882, some of his students worked together to produce the complete Darby Bible based on the Masoretic Hebrew text, Darby’s German (Elberfelder), and the French (Pau) translations. In 1890, the first complete Darby Bible was published in English. This translation of the Bible is in the public domain.
• Webster = The Webster Bible was translated by Noah Webster in 1833 in order to bring the language of the bible up to date. This version of the Bible is in the public domain.
• MKJV = 1962-1998 by J. P. Green, Sr. All rights reserved, used with permission.
• NASB20 = New American Standard Bible 2020 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• NASB95 = New American Standard Bible 1995 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved

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To the Reader: I’m not writing this article to stir up hatred toward those of the LGBTQ+ community. For they just like everyone else are loved by God and are in need of a Savior. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:23-24 KJV) Yes, God loves all of us and wants us to turn to him. For: “The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9 ESV) This is so true people: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” (John 3:16-17 KJV)

“Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable.” (Leviticus 18:22 NIV)

There are some who may claim that they were born with homosexual tendencies. And of course, we have those who claim that they were born in the wrong bodies, and thus trying to change their gender. But does this make it right? Didn’t Jesus say: “Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning ‘made them male and female,’ “and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’?” (Matthew 19:4-5 NKJV) So, just because one feels they were born a certain way doesn’t give them a license to keep indulging in it. For God’s word says: “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23 KJV) So, we were all born sinners with desires and feeling that are contrary to what is right and good.

So then, are you willing to give up what you’re bound to? I ask this because God’s word says that there are some who will not come to the light because they don’t want to change. For we read: “And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.” (John 3:19-21 KJV)

Now, from my past experience, I myself didn’t want to come to God because I wanted to do my own thing. For I thought I knew better when it came to enjoying life’s pleasures. However, I found out that this is not true and finally came to realize that God is not some a kill joy. For God’s ways will always bring more pleasure to our lives than when we are wallowing in our own sins. And this is true when it comes to sexual intimacy as well. For the pleasure that can be receive between a man and a woman are far greater than any other way. Now, you may have tried and failed in a normal relationship. But have you tried a relationship with the opposite sex while believing in Christ? I say this because with God, all things are possible. So, with his Holy Spirit residing in you, all things that seemed impossible before are now possible through Christ Jesus. So please turn and follow God’s plan and design for you. Because if you do, you will not regret it.

“For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse” (Romans 1:18-20 KJV)

According to that passage above, we see that there are those who suppress the truth by their wickedness. This they do even though the truth is reveled to them by God. For in Deuteronomy 22:5 we read: “A woman shall not wear a man’s clothing, nor shall a man put on a woman’s clothing; for whoever does these things is an abomination to the LORD your God.” (Deuteronomy 22:5 NASB20) So, don’t we see this happening in our culture today? Don’t they know that God views this as something disgusting. Also, we read: “Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.” (Romans 1:27 NKJV) Now, please notice that it says there is a penalty for this sinful act of homosexuality. And what is that recompense that they received because of their error? Well, just visit the Center for Disease Control (CDC) to see that the majority of HIV carriers are homosexual men.

Yes, I do believe that HIV is a part of God’s wrath that’s revealed from heaven against this shameful act. So, for all you LGBTQ+ and more, please repent of your sin and turn your heart to God. And do this not only for your own good, but for the good of others as well. And let’s remember that even though you may escape the HIV in this life, you can’t escape the judgment of God that’s appointed after death. For we read: “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27 KJV) And according to God’s word, those who are living this lifestyle of sin will not: “inherit the Kingdom of God” if they refuse to repent. (1 Corinthians 6:9-10 KJV)

Now, as mentioned above, the LGBTQ+ lifestyle is a sin that can keep a person from entering into the kingdom of Heaven. Thus, it could separate you from God and send you into the “lake of fire.” This is true people, for we read: “And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” (Revelation 20:15 KJV) So let’s take heed to the warnings of God’s word which says: “Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 6:9-10 ESV)

So, for all who are caught up in this sin, please simply confess from your heart that you have sinned against God. For God’s word says that he will forgive you and wash you clean by the blood of Jesus Christ. For Jesus took the penalty for our sins upon himself through beatings, whippings and being nailed to the cross. Last of all, he spent three days and nights in hell as well, suffering the torment that was due us. “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” (2 Corinthians 5:21 KJV)

Therefore, by repenting and turning your heart to God, he will give you the strength to overcome any sin in your life. And let us remember: “For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” (Romans 8:13-14 KJV) So, come to God today seeking him with your whole heart. For Jesus said: “All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.” (John 6:37 KJV) Amen, and thank God for that.

Some scripture reference on this topic: Male and Female:

• “Then God said, And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.” (Genesis 1:26-28 KJV)
• “And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.” (Genesis 2:22-25 KJV)
• “But at the beginning of creation God ‘made them male and female.’ ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” (Mark 10:6-9 NIV)

God’s Law:

• “If a man has sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman, both of them have done what is detestable. They are to be put to death; their blood will be on their own heads.” (Leviticus 20:13 NIV)
• “For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.” (Romans 1:26-27 NKJV)
• “Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 6:9-10 ESV)
• “But we know that the law is good, provided one uses it legitimately. We know that the law is not meant for a righteous person, but for the lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinful, for the unholy and irreverent, for those who kill their fathers and mothers, for murderers, for the sexually immoral and males who have sex with males, for slave traders, liars, perjurers, and for whatever else is contrary to the sound teaching that conforms to the gospel concerning the glory of the blessed God, which was entrusted to me.” (1 Timothy 1:8-11 CSB)
• “But the Scripture has shut up everyone under sin, so that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might be given to those who believe. But before faith came, we were held in custody under the Law, being shut up for the coming faith to be revealed. Therefore the Law has become our tutor unto Christ, so that we may be justified by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” (Galatians 3:22-27 LSB)

God's Mercy:

• “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God sent not the Son into the world to judge the world; but that the world should be saved through him. He that believeth on him is not judged: he that believeth not hath been judged already, because he hath not believed on the name of the only begotten Son of God.” (John 3:16-18 ASV)
• “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. But they are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 3:23-24 NET)
• “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9 NKJV)

Below are the different versions used in this article. This was done to help you in your study of God’s word. Therefore, “Study to show thyself approved to God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 WEB)

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• CSB = Christian Standard Bible®, Copyright © 2017, 2020 by Holman Bible Publishers.
• NET = The NET Bible®, New English Translation Copyright © 1996 By Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. NET Bible® is a registered trademark The NET Bible® Logo, Service Mark Copyright © 1997 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved.
• NIV = THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.
• NKJV = Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• ASV = New American Standard Bible Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• NASB20 = New American Standard Bible 2020 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• NASB95 = New American Standard Bible 1995 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• LSB = Copyright ©2021 by The Lockman Foundation. All rights reserved. Managed in partnership with Three Sixteen Publishing Inc. LSBible.o
• WEB = The Webster Bible was translated by Noah Webster in 1833 in order to bring the language of the bible up to date. This version of the Bible is in the public domain.

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To the Reader: I’m writing this article concerning those Christians who are involved in Competition Sports. And yes, I’m sure that there may be those who oppose what’s being said here. However, if we read through the scriptures (including those which were supported by the early Christians), we can see that God hates pride. And isn’t it true that competition sports are built upon pride a well? I say this because don’t we play to strut our stuff and show that we’re better than our competition? Why else would we be doing it? So, every trophy held high by the victory becomes an idol of worship. Therefore, let’s put away this sin from among us. For we shouldn’t be seen running alongside with those who chase after vain glory.

Now, I do include the books of Maccabees to get my point across how I feel concerning competition sports. For it’s true that these books were included in both the 1560 Geneva and the 1611 King James bible. In fact, it wasn’t until the 1800 hundreds that publishers started printing bibles without the books of Maccabees in it. But what is interesting is the fact that there was a desire to start up the Olympics in Europe during this time as well. And according to the book of Maccabees, this is the practice of the heathens.

So, did the desire to reestablish the Olympics inspire its removal? Or was it just a coincident that it was removed around that time? Well, only God knows (and of course those who sought its removal). However, that all being said, there are still some publishers who still rightfully include Maccabees in today’s bibles. They can be found in such places as Amazon.com, Christianbooks.com and other stores as well.

It’s disappointing to see fellow Christians so wrapped up in the things of this world. For we are seen running alongside those who are seeking after empty vain pursuits. And as already mentioned above, one of those vain pursuits is competition sports. For don’t we hear fellow Christians talk and brag about their favorite teams and players? And don’t we see parents spending so much time running their children to-and-fro from one practice to another? Even churches have gotten involved in supporting sport events. And why Christian; isn’t this an act of idolatry?

Now, we read in the books of Maccabees concerning a falling away of the children of Israel who gave themselves to the ways of the Gentiles. And we see that one of those ways was building themselves a gymnasium and thus giving themselves over to sports. “In those days lawless men came forth from the sons of Israel, and they persuaded many, saying, ‘Let us make a covenant with the Gentiles surrounding us, for ever since we were separated from them, many evils have found us.’ This proposal found favor in their eyes, and some of the people eagerly desired to enter into this agreement. So they went to the king, and he gave them authority to observe the ordinances of the Gentiles. Then they built a gymnasium in Jerusalem according to the customs of the Gentiles, and made themselves as the uncircumcision. So they fell away from the holy covenant, yoked themselves to the Gentiles, and sold themselves to do evil.” (1 Maccabees 1:11-15)

So, we read above that there were certain Jews who: “sold themselves to do evil” by getting involved in sports. This is true because competition sports are based on the pride that lusts after victory and feeds on attention from its onlookers. Just look at the frenzy and cheering of the crowds and the prideful reactions of the players. And it’s even more disturbing that our assemblies (churches) are getting involved by holding sport events in honor of it. Shame on us for allowing this to happen.

Therefore, my fellow brothers and sister in Christ; do you really believe that God approves of this? For we read in Proverbs that: “He takes no pleasure in the strength of a horse or in human might. No, the LORD's delight is in those who fear him, those who put their hope in his unfailing love.” (Psalm 147:10-11 NLT) So, God is not impressed or please with what man can do in these vain sport event. Therefore, please don’t point to the sky as if you’re giving glory to God. For do you really think that he favors one team over another? Or do you really think that he is giving you the strength and ability to wine. I ask this because there are unbelievers who are very successful in sports as well. So, is he helping them as well? The answer should be a big NO.

Below are some other passages from the bible that pertain to what was mentioned above: 

• When Seleucus died and Antiochus, also called Epiphanes, succeeded to the kingdom, Jason the brother of Onias obtained the high priesthood by corruption. For through a petition, he promised the king three hundred and sixty talents of silver, and from another source of revenue, eighty talents. In addition to this, he promised to pay one hundred and fifty more if the king gave him permission to establish a gymnasium as a place for training young men, and for enrolling the men of Jerusalem as citizens of Antioch. … So there was the fullest expression of Hellenization and the adoption of foreign customs because of the surpassing wickedness of Jason, who was ungodly and not a true high priest. Therefore the priests were no longer eager to serve at the altar, but they despised the temple and neglected the sacrifices. Instead, they hastened to take part in the unlawful proceedings in the wrestling-school after the invitation to the discus. They counted the honors of their fathers as nothing, but regarded Greek honors as the best. (2 Maccabees 4:7-9, 13-15)

“Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall. Better to be of a humble spirit with the lowly, Than to divide the spoil with the proud.” (Proverbs 16:18-19 NKJV)

So again, football, baseball, basketball, soccer, the worlds Olympic events, or any other competition activity does not impress God. This is because all these things are built upon the pride of man which we know that God hates. Therefore, every trophy (or the spoil according to that passage above) held high by the victory becomes an idol of worship. So, why get caught up into this nonsense my fellow Christians?

And let’s take note to what Paul the apostle said while using sports as an analogy between us Christians and those of this world. For we read: “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.” (1 Corinthians 9:25 NIV) Notice how he distinguishes “they” (those of this world who receive a perishable crown) from “we” (us Christians who receive an imperishable crown). So, those of this world prepare themselves in sticked training to receive their trophy in a sport event. While we who are in Christ (in a metaphorical way to those who are training for a sport event) are to prepare ourselves for ministry by studying and obeying God’s word.

Now, you may be asking: “why would Paul use such and illustration that shouldn’t be practiced by us Christians.” But I say, why not? Doesn’t Paul also use a thief as an illustration on the return of our Lord when he said: “For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.” (1 Thessalonians 5:2 KJV) And didn’t John the apostle record the words of Jesus who said: “Behold, I am coming as a thief” (Revelation 16:15 NKJV)?

So, does both the apostle Paul and John as well as our Lord Jesus approve the ways of a thief? God forbid, of course not. And let’s remember that Jesus said: “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” (Matthew 10:16 KJV) So, even though Jesus may be alluding to being sly and cunning as a serpent, he clearly is not wanting us to do it in a harmful way as the serpent did to Eve. Therefore, in the same way the analogy of the sport event is not giving us Christians the permission to be caught up in any competition sports.

“For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” (Galatians 5:14 KJV)

According to that passage above, we are to show love to our neighbor. And according to Jesus, our neighbor does include strangers we meet along the road (see Luke 10:25-37). So, does tackling, slamming, or punching someone in the face show an act of kindness or love? And isn’t this what one does during football, hockey, boxing, wrestling or rugby? And even in the more “tamed” competition sports, isn’t it all about defeating one’s opponent? This is something that Jesus never told us to do. For on the contrary, “To the person who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other as well, and from the person who takes away your coat, do not withhold your tunic either.” (Luke 6:29 NET)

Now, when it come to the devil, we’re not called to defeat him, but to resist him. For the apostle Peter said: “Be sober and alert. Your enemy the devil, like a roaring lion, is on the prowl looking for someone to devour. Resist him, strong in your faith, because you know that your brothers and sisters throughout the world are enduring the same kinds of suffering.” (1 Peter 5:8-9 NET) “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” (Galatians 6:10 KJV) Yes brothers and sisters in Christ: “Love worketh no ill to his neighbor: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.” (Romans 13:10 KJV)

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist on the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, having belted your waist with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having strapped on your feet the preparation of the gospel of peace; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. (Ephesians 6:10-17 NASB20)

• “But the fruit of the Spirit is: love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faith, meekness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 3:22-23 MKJV)
• But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine. Older men are to be sober-minded, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in steadfastness. Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled. Likewise, urge the younger men to be self-controlled. Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us. (Titus 2:1-8 ESV)

“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” (Proverbs 22:6 NIV)

Now, for all you parents who are reading this. Do you really think that your child is going to be a better person by getting them hooked on sports? For you must realize that people (whether they’re adults or children) play sports to defeat their opponent. And the only reason they want to defeat their opponent is to show that they are better or greater. Come on brothers and sisters in Christ, isn’t this is an act of pride which God hates? For as said before: “Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 6:18 NKJV) Therefore: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves.” (Philippians 2:3 BSB)

So, instead, shouldn’t you be training you child in some kind of skill or trade that is going to be a blessing not only to them, but to others as well? For according to that passage above, you are either going to train them to be fruitful and productive, or to be prideful and thus seeking after vain glory. Because if you don’t teach them the right way to go, you may surely regret it later on. I say this because I witnessed the suffering that a Christian family went through after their son got injured while playing High School football. And because of his suffering, he eventually took his own life

Below are a few tragic articles on other youth who have died as a result of High School Football.

• Seven High School Deaths in August 2024
• Experts Alarmed Over 13 High School Football Deaths This Season
• We Had No Idea This Many Kids Have Died Playing High School Football This Year

Now, without getting too judgmental, I would like to share another tragic story. For many of you may have heard about a young pro-surfer girl who had her arm bit off by a shark. This happened after she backed down from a mission trip that she committed herself to. For she felt it was more important to prepare for a surfing tournament that was coming up. Now, you may brush this off by thinking it was only a coincidence. But was it? Fortunately, she survived the shark attack. And we can only hope that she learned an important lesson on why we should pursue the things of God instead of the vain glory of this world.

Below is a clipping of a video on what was mentioned above: 

• Soul Surfer Video should be coming soon

“How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.” (Isaiah 14:12-14 KJV)

So as said before, God hates arrogance and pride because it not only brought about the fall of Satan, but the fall of mankind also. For in Genesis chapter 3:4-6 we read that Eve’s heart was deceived by the Devil’s tempting words. For after listing to the Devil, she wanting to be like God and thus at of the forbidden fruit. Therefore, she brought sin not only upon herself, but upon Adam (who willingly ate of the fruit that was handed to him by her), as well as the whole human race. And we know because of this folly, God out of his heart of love toward us sent his beloved Son Jesus Christ to die for our sins.

So again, God hates pride which is steeped in the hearts of fallen man. And isn’t competition sports based on this? For this would be true whether it’s done by pro athletes in some stadium or in the backyard with your kids. That’s because kids just like adults want to strut their stuff and play to win. And the only reason they want to win is to show that they’re better than their opponent. 

The downfall of pride in one’s life:

• “May the LORD cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaks proud things, who have said, “with our tongue we will prevail; our lips are our own; who is lord over us?” (Psalm 12:3-4 NKJV)
• Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed, which do err from thy commandments. (Psalm 119:21 KJV) “The fear of the LORD is to hate evil; Pride, arrogance, the evil way, And the perverted mouth, I hate.” (Proverbs 8:13 NASB20) 
• When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom. (Proverbs 11:2) “Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, for all his deeds are right and his ways are just. He is able to bring down those who live in pride.” (Daniel 4:37 NET)
• For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.
• (Mark 7:21-23 KJV) “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” (1 John 2:16 KJV)
• “On an appointed day Herod put on his royal robes, took his seat upon the throne, and delivered an oration to them. And the people were shouting, “The voice of a god, and not of a man!” Immediately an angel of the Lord struck him down, because he did not give God the glory, and he was eaten by worms and breathed his last.” (Acts 12:21-23 ESV)
• “A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach; not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but gentle, not quarrelsome, not covetous; one who rules his own house well, having his children in submission with all reverence (for if a man does not know how to rule his own house, how will he take care of the church of God?); not a novice, lest being puffed up with pride he fall into the same condemnation as the devil.” (1 Timothy 3:2-6 NKJV)

So, what camp should we Christians be in? Is it the prideful and self-seeking, or those who are the Kingdom seekers who are doing the things which matters most to God? And let’s remember that Jesus separated the people groups of the world into two classes as stated below. So, read through both classes and decide which one you want to be in. I know for me; I want to be those who are blessed of the Father who are going into the Kingdom of Heaven. And I hope and pray that you feel the same. Amen.

• “But when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit on His glorious throne. "All the nations will be gathered before Him; and He will separate them from one another, as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats; and He will put the sheep on His right, and the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. ‘For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me. “Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You something to drink? ‘And when did we see You a stranger, and invite You in, or naked, and clothe You? ‘When did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ “The King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.’” (Matthew 25:31-40 NASB95)
• “Then He will also say to those on His left, ‘Depart from Me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels; for I was hungry, and you gave Me nothing to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me nothing to drink; I was a stranger, and you did not invite Me in; naked, and you did not clothe Me; sick, and in prison, and you did not visit Me.’ “Then they themselves also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not take care of You?’ “Then He will answer them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ “These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” (Matthew 25:41-46 NASB95)

So, brothers and sisters in Christ. Let’s stand on God’s word. “Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul; and ye shall bind them for a sign upon your hand, and they shall be for frontlets between your eyes. And ye shall teach them your children, talking of them, when thou sittest in thy house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt write them upon the door-posts of thy house, and upon thy gates; that your days may be multiplied, and the days of your children, in the land which Jehovah sware unto your fathers to give them, as the days of the heavens above the earth.” (Deuteronomy 11:18-21)

Videos on Sports and Idolatry:

• The Olympian Mystery
• David Wilkerson Serman on Sports Idolatry
• Christian Idolatry
• Idolatry and Sports – David Platt
• Modern Sport & Idolatry

Below is the different bible versions used in this article. This was done to assist you in your study of God’s word:

• KJV = The Authorized Version or King James Version (KJV), 1611, 1769. Outside of the United Kingdom, the KJV is in the public domain. Within the United Kingdom, the rights to the KJV are vested in the Crown.
• ESV = The Holy Bible, English Standard Version copyright © 2001, 2007, 2011, 2016 by Crossway Books and Bibles, a Publishing Ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• NET = The NET Bible®, New English Translation Copyright © 1996 By Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. NET Bible® is a registered trademark The NET Bible® Logo, Service Mark Copyright © 1997 by Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved.
• NIV = THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by Permission of Biblica, Inc.® All rights reserved worldwide.
• NKJV = Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
• ASV = New American Standard Bible Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• NASB20 = New American Standard Bible 2020 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved.
• NASB95 = New American Standard Bible 1995 Copyright (c) 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, Calif. All rights reserved
• NLT = Holy Bible, New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
• MKJV = The Modern King James Version of the Holy Bible, 1962. Copyright © by Jay P. Green. Printed in the United States of America. All rights reserved.

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