How can this problem be solved in a case of a Christian involved in a polygamous union before coming to know God? ~ Femi Temilola
Christians and non-Christians are amenable to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, whether they realize it or not (Mark 16:15-16; Romans 1:15). The reason Jesus Christ came into the world was because mankind was already lost in sin; “Son of man came to seek and save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10 ASV; Romans 3:10, 23 ).
Since all people are bound by the Gospel or New Testament even before they become Christians, part of the Gospel plan of salvation calls for repentance prior to forgiveness of one’s past sins; “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins” (Acts 2:28).
The New Testament allows a man or a woman one spouse (monogamy, not polygamy). “Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband” (1 Corinthians 7:1-2). A second spouse under Christianity constitutes adultery (Matthew 5:32; 19:9). Apostolic instruction for the selection of elders emphasized monogamy rather than polygamy, since previously under Judaism and among non-Jews as well, polygamy was sometimes practiced (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6).
Therefore, a polygamist who wants to become a Christian must abide by the New Testament teaching respecting marriage. Among other things for which he or she must repent (which involves stop doing) before becoming a Christian is to repent for or stop being a polygamist. Whereas especially a man may have moral and financial responsibilities toward a wife to which God says he has no right (and any children as a result there from), he cannot continue as a polygamist with divine approval. Irrespective of personal feelings or emotional investment, God’s Word must be obeyed, even if it involves wives and children that must be put away (Ezra 10:3).
