Evolution vs. Intelligent Design
Thanks for including the interesting BP article about ultra-Darwinian Daniel C. Dennett by Albert Mohler (Jan. 12). Although Dennett would surely appreciate the compliment, Mohler is too generous in his reference to Dennett as “one of the world’s most influential evolutionary scientists.” Dennett is undoubtedly an influential evolutionary philosopher, but he is certainly not a scientist in the sense that we normally associate the term (i.e., an expert in physical or natural sciences). His B.A. degree was in philosophy; his doctorate was in philosophy. I have seen no evidence of studies or work in scientific fields. It is important for readers to know that Dennett’s argument is totally philosophical and not scientific.
L. Hoyt Griffith, Wirtz
When adultery pays off
As a former pastor of six churches and a total of 30 years in the ministry, I find myself in a new and confusing phase of life. I am now divorced after a marriage of 28-plus years. The last several years saw my wife and children distance themselves from me. I found myself being viewed by my family as simply a provider: food, shelter, protection, etc. The role as husband and father became virtually non-existent.
I feel that I repeatedly made honest attempts at reestablishing a proper Christian home. I suggested going to a marriage counselor. Because life had become so miserable and I saw no sign of change, I filed for divorce. This was not contested by my wife.
I have amply provided for my ex-wife’s and children’s financial needs. I also tried to stay friends with her and close to my children.
I hope to pastor again, as I believe this to be God’s calling on my life. But as I am contacted by pastor search committees and directors of missions, I am asked the same question repeatedly: “Did you have a scriptural reason for your divorce?” By this they mean: Was your wife an adulteress? The answer to this question is a resounding no. Neither was there adultery on my part. I seek to explain to committees what occurred in my situation and keenly feel that this falls on deaf ears.
If my ex-wife had committed adultery, I would have no problem being interviewed and heard by many churches. But instead, I find them to be uninterested in my ministry. If my ex-wife had been guilty of adultery, then I would be viewed as a victim and allowed to continue my ministry.
Why must there be a double standard when it comes to the circumstances of a divorce? Why should adultery be the deciding factor as to whether a director of missions or pastor search committee will give God’s man another opportunity? We still love God’s people and want to minister to them.
I believe I speak for those who have been snubbed and given the cold shoulder by other preachers and church congregations. There is a tremendous amount of love, experience and ministry being overlooked and untapped because of those who view the issue of divorce as black and white. Many of us who have fallen in battle await to be used by God once again if given the opportunity. We hurt just like others, and it hurts to be tried, judged and sentenced without a fair hearing in the court of church tradition.
Name withheld