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Question 7
In discussing 1 Corinthians 7, Bercot argues that Paul does not authorize divorce and that the Greek word is “leave/depart” rather than “divorce,” insisting apostles do not contradict their King—how should Christians handle cases where popular commentators claim Paul created a new category of divorce, and what does loyalty to Jesus as “King and Lawgiver” require in how we interpret Scripture?
Another way to ask: In 1 Corinthians 7, Bercot says Paul means “leave,” not “divorce,” and that the apostles wouldn’t contradict Jesus. How should Christians respond when teachers say Paul added a new reason for divorce, and what does loyalty to Jesus require in how we read Scripture?

Direct Answer Bercot’s approach is to read Paul in a way that cannot contradict Jesus, paying close attention to wording and context rather than following “modern commentators.” Loyalty to Jesus as King means interpreting Scripture so that the apostles “never contradict” Christ’s commands and refusing translations or interpretations that smuggle in divorce permission.

Support from Transcript:

  • He summarizes the claim he rejects: “Some modern Bible commentators claim… Paul did allow divorce… expanded divorce… allowing wives to divorce their husbands.”
  • After quoting 1 Cor. 7:10–15, he asks, “Does Paul… authorize divorce? No, he does not.”
  • He notes KJV distinctions: husband “put away” his wife; wife “leave” or “depart” from husband.
  • He argues the Greek word is ephiome, “usually translated as ‘leave’… but never as ‘divorce,’” unlike Jesus’ term apollo in Matt. 5:32.
  • On “if the unbeliever departs,” he says Paul “says nothing about divorce,” only that the believer need not “follow after” the departing spouse.
  • Key principle: “In God's kingdom, Jesus is the King and Lawgiver. His apostles never contradict the commandments their King has handed down.”
Discussion Follow-ups How much weight should Christians give to translation choices when a major doctrine is affected? What practices help ensure we are not making Scripture fit our desires?

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