Encouraging Reader Responses

Brethren, I am sharing these responses – not to promote myself, but to encourage those who believe they are isolated in their stance for truth. These letters also serve to prove the fallacy of some brethren’s claim that opposition to the post-civil-divorce "putting away" is a “peculiar” position. There are still 7000 whose knees have not bowed to Baal (I K. 19:18)!

* The author's names and identifying information have been removed to protect the “innocent.” Recent responses are first.

Brother Jeff,

Here is another study I put together on Divorce and Fornication. (12-31-04)

Jeff,

Thanks for the updates. Please change my e-mail address to … from … Keep up the good work!

Thanks, Happy New Year (12-30-04)

Jeff, we know things are not to be settled by how many agree, but by a thus saith the Lord. Any out there that think Jeff stands alone, which would still be right because of Bible teaching but at the same time they should print and read the 128 pages of “Reader Responses.” By the way you can use my name as you have in the past. Billy Ray Ford Sr. (12-23-04)

I agree with you that it is sad to see … starting to use …, thus fellowshipping him in his error. I am praying to God that I will have a keen interest in attending to my own affairs and not get involved in matters, such as the inter-working of another congregation and sin against God. The reason I wanted to get your opinion knowing it would be based upon what the Bible teaches. Love (12-13-04)

Thank you for the info. (12-18-04)

Hello bro. Jeff:

I appreciate your teaching and effort in this “false” teaching among some of our brothers.

I have a better handle on the issue now and I agree that the mental divorce issue is false… (12-16-04)

Good article (12-14-04)

Thanks, Jeff, for all the info…

If, for some reason, tomorrow does not go as planned (perish the thought!) just keep on fighting the good fight of faith and know that I will be cheering you on from wherever I am—hopefully somewhere in close proximity to the “great cloud of witnesses” of Hebrews 12. I surely hope to inhabit that heavenly city, and I will be waiting on all the rest of you to catch up!

Take care, and many thanks for the info… (12-14-04)

Dear Jeff,

…I am glad to see Don Martin and Pat Donahue keeping the pressure up for debate. I know there are probably others as well. Everything is relatively quiet in Tennessee right now, but I think that is due more to the season of the year. I can imagine that things will probably heat up again around the second annual GOT lectureship if not before… (12-14-04)

...I see exactly the point you’re making. Let me restate it and let me know if I got it accurately.

Man believes the Willis view. He divorces his wife for being a meanie. She eventually remarries. Man then mentally puts away that woman for adultery - and he can remarry (according to all their nonsense).

This is interesting – as Willis obviously says that these extra reasons for divorce don’t release the man from the bond, right? Thus, when the woman remarries – he can put her away again (mentally) and now remarry.

Good point and good article...

I like your use of footnotes and documentation. This establishes credibility and fairness.

By the way, what does Willis say if the man caves in and commits adultery first after this supposedly authorized divorce. Since Willis thinks they’re still bound – can the woman mentally divorce the man?

Why won’t folks just stay with the Scripture? (12-10-04)

…Of course, you and I both concur that Connie & Donnie should have come out more publicly and harder on this subject regarding Mike, Cavender, & Warnock. And, I would have cut ties by now if the false teaching didn’t stop....

Thanks much, (12-10-04)

Thanks much for the additional perspective.... Yes, many twists and turns. Appreciate the good article. Helpful for me. (12-10-04)

Well, disappointing isn’t it. Of course I hope men like … and … will break ranks. In private emails to me Donnie clearly agreed that men teaching what Cavender is teaching - are teaching error.

However, one thing is sure - these men need to step forward publicly and break ranks.

Take care - keep up the good work. (12-10-04)

Hey Jeff!

Thanks for the website update and its content! I am most pleased to know that there are men who are willing to fight for principle and not just let this thing drop as the GOT writers and followers wish would happen. If Satan sticks his foot in the door and no one removes his foot and slams the door, guess what is going to creep in? His foot is definitely in the door in so many places now. Once-vigilant Christians are now sleeping and allowing error to get a foothold. Those who know better are going to be so sorry in a generation or two when frivolous divorce and remarriage runs rampant through their congregations and no one can condemn it because God’s laws have been thrown out and replaced by the emotion-filled opinions of man. One man will not be able to condemn another without condemning himself, because he will have either practiced false doctrine or condoned it. And members of the church of Christ will be no different from the world in practicing divorce outside of the bounds of God’s law, just as they have begun to shamelessly model the world in immodest dress, the use of instrumental music, changing God’s plan of salvation, etc. Those who once preached God’s truth of Matthew 19:9 and aided brethren in their understanding of the truth with books, tracts, and magazine articles will be the Rubel Shelleys and Max Lucados of tomorrow. It does not take a real Einstein to see where we are going or how relatively quickly we are going to get there…

Thanks, as always, for your continued faithfulness in combating error. When many would have fainted by now, you have stayed the course through a lot of tribulation, and I admire your strength. You continue to have our prayers. (12-8-04)

Another good article on this issue is Chapter 7 of Donnie Rader’s book “Divorce And Remarriage, What Does The Text Say?” (12-7-04)

Jeff,

It really saddens me to see his teaching on mental marriages and mental divorce. He has a tremendous influence down here, i.e. everybody lines up to his teaching, quoting him and standing firm in his teaching except … and myself. …Last week they, i.e. main preachers here in … met and all decided that a couple living together constitutes a marriage covenant, “living together 20 years.” … and I have tried to point out that just because a couple lives together 2 years or 20 years does not constitute a marriage covenant. They are saying that what matters is the commitment. Of course … and I agree that “commitment” to a marriage is very important, but only commitment does not constitute a marriage covenant. So, we have our hands full and brother … and … teaching does not make it any easier. (12-6-04)

Jeff,

Clearly brother … teaching, in his Spanish book, questions and answers, mental marriage (start living together) according to him they are not in fornication just civil disobedience, and mental divorce… (12-6-04)

Jeff,

So far it hasn’t come to that, i.e. a challenge! But somewhere down the road it may so be. If so we must be ready to answer the call. I have been teaching that there are at least 2 or maybe 3 basic elements that constitute a marriage covenant.

1. Formal agreement,

2. vow, oath

3. ratification, or confirmation according to local laws and costumes.

If I indeed get into a formal debate these 3 principals I will defend with Bible principals. (12-6-04)

Jeff,

I think I have some of the material on the MDR question about Ron and Mike, and others. But I would be pleased if you sent me the documentation that you referred to.

I will try and stay with my Lord’s teachings regardless of what I have posted or hear, read or etc from others. I have heard from Mike and he has even given me his phone number. I have in times past sent a message to Ron and he never responded.

Ron at one time preached in North AL where my parents worshipped. He taught school at the Athens Bible School in Athens, AL that is about 15 miles West of Huntsville, AL. I was born in Limestone County AL and lived there my first 50 years, and now for the past 20 years I’m working and preaching in Eastern KY.

I believe one man for one woman in marriage until one of them passes away, and then and then only does the one left behind have the right to marry and that must be to another who has the right to marry. I believe in Matt 19:9 Jesus gives one (1) exception and that is fornication. If that sin is committed the innocent party has the right to put away the guilty party and marry again, but not the guilty party.

Some say this MDR thing needs to be solved before congregations begin to split, I believe that is already being done one way or another, and the compromise thing is what bothers me the most…

Thanks for your reply and have a good day in the Lord’s service. (12-3-04)

I’ve attached an article which I’ve just submitted to J.T. Smith and thought I would pass it along to you…. (12-2-04)

COOL! (11-29-04)

David,

Thanks for your kind words, via Jeff Belknap! Keep up the fight. (11-29-04)

Hello Steven,

I continue to appreciate you and Jeff's work in this MDR matter currently being addressed…

…I do not know how much longer Mike and Ron Halbrook can hide and still have the respect of others. (11-29-04)

I don’t know brother Harper, but this article speaks mighty well of him. (11-28-04)

Jeff,

Thank for the work you do.

Please change my email address from …. to …

Thanks, (11-21-04)

Jeff, what happened to Weldon Warnock? Is he still on the radio? (11-21-04)

…This exposes them for what they are. I’m really surprised Haile wants to get tangled up with Cavender’s crazy views… (11-21-04)

Jeff,

Just a note to thank you for writing “Truth Magazine Against Truth Magazine.” I don’t think I have seen such a skillful, revealing use of quotes in a long while. I long ago tired of the drivel from Truth Magazine and wondered when others would see and address Halbrook’s and others inconsistencies. You continue to do a good work with the website.

Sincerely, (11-17-04)

Jeff,

What do you think about the debate? Will Tim, be able to press the issue?

I have helped J T and know he will do a good job.

Are you going to both debates?

Do you suppose Truth will announce it?

I plan on going. (11-16-04)

Jeff:

I saw your article in G.T. Good job. Keep the wood in the fire.

Brotherly, (11-16-04)

Hello my friend and my brother,

Excellent material!!! Your article stands out. Who can complain when you have used their own words? I’m anxious to hear the response you will get.

I admire your courage to stand so tall, (11-16-04)

Jeff,

I find it interesting that the forum in which Bro Gwin & Rader participated in was advertised as an “open” forum, and then offense was taken and acted upon in printed retaliation toward what Bro Gwin presented from the bible. (11-15-04)

Good article on the differences among the GOT staff.

Regards, (11-15-04)

Jeff, I suppose you have heard about the debate with J T & Tim Haile. Do you plan on going?

I am going to go, and I’m going to go to your website and print out all Tim has said. Have you put all you have received form him on your site?

This is going to be interesting on who will come to the debate.

Brotherly (11-7-04)

Interesting stuff... I’m definitely planning to go to the Tulsa debate. We’ll have to compare notes. Aside from helping Reeves – has Haile participated in an oral debate? (10-28-04)

Thanks for taking the time to respond to my question. Yes—it helps a lot! Thanks! (10-19-04)

Thanks for the update! (10-13-04)

Jeff,

It seems some are simply inept at accepting the description as it is plainly stated in the Scriptures and leaving it at that. I fear too many are trying to be “scholars” and they end up looking like fools and – worse – leading others astray by their ineptitude. I pray that their mouths may be stopped before it is too late (Titus 1:10, 11).

I think its time for a barrage of real truth. What do you think? (10-12-04)

Jeff:

I can’t believe that he is equating MDR issues as being the same as differing over you/yours vs. thee/thou!!!! These guys are indeed getting desperate! More and more, as he does in this article, they are trying to defend their position by throwing up a ‘smoke screen’ in the area of unanswered questions. “What about brethren who differ over putting ‘adultery’ on the divorce papers, etc.?” That does NOTHING towards answering the mental divorce issue. (10-12-04)

Jeff:

…Thanks, Jeff, for all that you do. (10-12-04)

Hello Jeff,

We have been in contact with Joe since June and it is coming to a head. I think some of what you see is a result of him being in the corner and now his convictions are coming out. He has (at least seems to us) been evasive with us. I’m greatly saddened by what I am seeing. Also, the article that he endorses, written by K Greer is a disappointment. Keith told me about 3 years ago that Halbrook and Willis was all wrong and he would be confronting them. It wasn’t 3 months later that he spent time in the Philippines with Ron. I asked him how he could spend that kind of time in the work with a man that he acknowledged taught error. He said they discussed it everyday. It looks like Ron convinced him. Evil companions corrupt good morals, 1 Cor 15:33.

Hang in there, Jeff!! As you say, “It’s a jungle out there”. (10-11-04)

…I am very sad that Joe has chosen his present course. Alas, I am saddened that men such as Mike Willis and Ron Halbrook have established their course. Mike will go down in history as one of the primary men of our generation to teach and promote multiple causes for divorce, even when a mate runs upfinancial charges, and Ron will go down as the promoter of the put away putting away doctrine. Then there are the Joe Prices who abuse Romans 14 to try to get us to at least ignore Mike Willis and Ron Halbrook’s teaching… (10-11-04)

Jeff,

Did you read Joe Price’s latest article on Romans 14? It seems he has joined hands with Willis and others who seem to think this “difference in application” argument has merit, though the consequence is adultery. (10-11-04)

…I just read the article and looked at the web site. I went to the home page, and where they list Gospel Meetings, noticed that Mike Willis is holding them a meeting this week.

This is interesting, because Keith was one of the first people to inform me that Mike was a false teacher, regarding his teaching on MDR. The words I see in this article are almost a quote from Ron Halbrook. (10-11-04)

Jeff, thank you very much. Do you know anything about the church in …? (10-10-04)

Jeff and Cara,

Thanks! As I woke up this morning, I was thinking....“I sure did want to add something under the heading of walking in the light....I want to bring out a little bit more that Ron is afraid to speak boldly about his ‘position.’” At one time, at least, Donnie was very bold and brave to stand before large audiences of people who did not necessarily agree with his doctrine, yet he spoke with conviction. Now, I find his message to be somewhat watered down, and I wonder how long it will be before it changes all together to be in line with those who believe in a post-civil divorce putting away… (10-10-04)

Jeff,

…Thanks for everything. (10-10-04)

Thanks, Jeff!

How goes things out in WVa? My son is studying WV as part of his school project, and he asked me if I knew anyone who lived there. Hmmm... (10-9-04)

Jeff,

… I REALLY appreciate all your help. Without the website…

Thanks again, (10-8-04)

…I was wondering if you happen to have an exact quote anywhere from Donnie’s book where he talks about his definition of “marriage” and “divorce.” (10-8-04)

Jeff and Cara,

Whew! Glad you have a sense of humor! I find that my somewhat strange sense of humor is a great tool for getting me through some of the more challenging times that we have all found ourselves in of late!

…That is the only way these Truth Magazine brethren are ever going to be brought to repentance—if enough people care and dare to take a stand. (10-7-04)

Thanks again, Jeff!

Good article, once again! …

I am grateful to have your website to look to for all kinds of material...it is certainly a treasure of wonderful information! …

It is funny—I started reading Harry Osborne’s speech (had not seen it thus far), and I thought it was Greg’s. (I had not paid attention to the title.) As I read further, I thought to myself, “Greg, whatever are you thinking....” Imagine my relief when I figured out it was Harry’s speech and not Greg’s! My next reaction was, “Harry, whatever are you thinking...”

My best to you all! (10-7-04)

… That is excellent exposure. It is an article that’s ready for prime-time. Take courage, (10-6-04)

Fascinating ... deserves to be widely read. (10-6-04)

Jeff,

Thanks for the Bill Cavender reply to David Watts, Jr. …

I found these quotes on the Truth Website while looking for something else. You have probably seen them, but if not, I thought they were rather ironic in light of what has happened lately....Could it be that God is answering their requests made many years ago? ...

In “Truth Magazine and Controversy,” Connie W. Adams summarized the spirit of the paper from its inception when he said,

Yes, this is a militant paper. We mean to keep it so. The devil has not called off the battle yet. There are still surging issues which need to be discussed. Brotherly reserve and restraint ought to be employed. But no quarter should be asked or given in the conflict between truth and error. If we are found in error, then let brethren get out their typewriters and point it out. We can take it (Truth Magazine, 23 Nov. 1973, pp. 60-61).

The spirit and stamina of the Guardian of Truth magazine will be severely tested in the days which lie ahead. Those who write articles or read them in this paper, or any other paper, should view it as simply a medium for teaching the truth, nothing more or less. The Guardian of Truth has no ambitions or pretensions to control churches, preachers, or anything else, but it will be charged with such unworthy motives by those who feel the pressure of truth and fear the exposure of error. Papers, like individuals, face the challenge of maintaining their fidelity to truth into the third and fourth generations. Those who publish and write for this paper are subject to all of the same strong cultural influences as anyone else in this country, and we ourselves will be tempted at times to accommodate ourselves to the demand for a softer, more polished, more positive posture, and thus to wear the “Protestant smile.” If we begin to give in to that demand, may God confuse and confound our purposes, and cause this paper to die forever. If the Guardian of Truth continues in its heritage of boldly proclaiming the gospel of Christ without compromise, may God bless its efforts and extend its usefulness. If the magazine and its writers take any other course or posture, may God raise up faithful men and faithful papers which will renew the heritage of faithful preaching. (Guardian of Truth Magazine, July 20, 1995, pp. 433-436).

(From Ron Halbrook’s article at http://www.truthmagazine.com/whatistruth.html

(Webmaster’s note: This article appeared in July 20, 1995 issue of Guardian of Truth. The name was changed to Truth Magazine in the January 1, 1998 issue. In that issue was this short note from the editor:

.......Gospel papers are as strong or as weak as the men who write in them. Whether any particular paper is a blessing or a danger at a given time depends on the message taught in its pages. If the men and message change for good or ill, the paper changes for good or ill. The Guardian of Truth magazine represents the highest tradition of gospel preachers spreading the gospel message through gospel papers. The paper is seen as one more avenue through which to “preach the word,” to declare “all the counsel of God,” to “use great plainness of speech,” to “earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints,” in short, to proclaim “the gospel of Christ” as “the power of God unto salvation” (2 Tim. 4:2; Acts 20:27; 2 Cor. 3:12; Jude 3; Rom. 1:16). This magazine takes its place in history as a medium to be used by sound and faithful men in passing the torch of truth from one generation to another. Those who share in this tradition of gospel journals understand well that the paper is not in any sense a source of religious authority but is simply a medium for men to preach God’s Word as the only source of authority in religion (2 Tim. 3:16-17).......... (10-6-04)

Thanks brother.... Good article... Really shows the inconsistency. (10-6-04)

Jeff:

Your article is accurate, articulate, and devastating to the hypocritical stance of the Truth Magazine crowd. However, I fear they are “past feeling” and will not be moved. As you point out so clearly, Connie and Donnie are so plainly condemned by their own words. Faithful brethren are shaking their heads in wonderment at this.

Thanks for setting the record straight! Keep up the important work you are doing!!! (10-5-04)

Jeff,

The article is strong, powerful, and clearly stated. Excellent effort, (10-5-04)

Jeff, I think you hit it right on the head… It needs to be said. (10-3-04)

Jeff & Cara,

… and I wish to thank you both for your encouragement, your love for the Lord and your stand for truth… (10-2-04)

… Bill C really is something, some brethren think he hung the moon. …

I am wondering how long Mike W will let Connie Adams keep writing for Truth? … I am amazed with Weldon…

Have a good day. (10-2-04)

amen! … (10-1-04)

Thanks Jeff… (10-1-04)

Jeff,

Your article was great. … (9-30-04)

Jeff, where did Bill C.’s article appear? I read ahead and he still does not offer any scripture to prove the “put away person” who is innocent can remarry. It took 8 pages for him to give his response, and when I wrote him, I only took one sentence, when I asked him for his scripture for what he teaches. (9-30-04)

…A more bit of positive news - we have been able to “alert” folks to the lurking dangers of this error on our travels; a fair bit even recently. I know that at times it seems very drear to you, but you are not alone, and many of us stand with Christ with you and love you very much.

We are in … today, waiting out the rain that Jeanne has brought. LW we will be with the brethren in … tomorrow. (9-30-04)

Dear Jeff,

Thanks so much for the update! …

Regarding the rest of the “staff” and writers for Truth Magazine, I have lost pretty much of what was left in respect for any of them. What hypocrisy to come down on the writers of Christianity Magazine as they did and then go and do the exact same thing—protect their own at all costs! …

This marriage/divorce/remarriage issue can, at times, be difficult for seasoned Christians to sort out. I don’t think that the Lord was difficult to understand, but all the twists that man has placed on the Lord’s teaching leaves many people scratching their heads and trying to sort it all out. Just put it all out there—hold nothing back—and the growth will come. The Lord has promised that we will reap in the manner that we plant. I have every confidence that although you sometimes are sowing in tears now, someday (and maybe sooner than you think) you will reap in joy! (Ps. 125:5-6) …

The Lord is righteous in all His ways, gracious in all His works. The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth. Ps. 145:17-18

God is near, God is in control, and God is good! Be encouraged! (9-28-04)

… Jeff I want to congratulate you on your article on the front of J.T. Smith’s paper. We read it with much excitement. You have definitely found your calling in defending the TRUTH about MDR. We are very proud of the work you do and in your stand for the Lord… (9-27-04)

I think you’re right all the way down the line. (9-27-04)

Jeff,

… also tells me that there are now several families who believe they have been misled, and are currently studying together to come to a knowledge of the truth! Is that not wonderful???? …

They are obtaining copies of everything they can get their hands on that Harry Osborne and Ron and others have written or said or preached recently.

… went on to say that now they see and have heard with their own ears Ron H. teaching error … also specifically mentioned the teaching of Bill Cavender. They have read and re-read his articles…

So do you see how your hard work is not going unrewarded? People, honest people, are coming to a knowledge of the truth and telling others. Those who are dishonest and doing things in darkness are also reaping the results of their work. We have always known that God would square the accounts when we all reached judgment, but it is good to know that some people are being called to account for their teaching now while there is still time to make correction—for the teachers and the students…

I agree with you that Donnie has reached the “sold-out” state. He has had ample opportunities to break fellowship with these men who are drifting further and further out in the sea of confusion, misinformation and downright apostasy. Yet, he remains tight as a tick with these men. I think what I am most disappointed in is that preachers have told us to the face that they were waiting to see “where he came down” and yet they are not making any moves yet to cut the ties with him. I think it is abundantly apparent “where he has come down” and I think the Lord will hold responsible those who continue to fellowship him…

I went to the website last night and noticed you had some new postings up in the Reader Responses and maybe a new article or two? Is it my imagination or are more people noticing the inconsistencies of the Truth Magazine crowd and commenting on it? … (9-24-04)

That is a correct assessment… (9-24-04)

Jeff:

When these guys call you a hobby rider, quote Harry from his bulletin 9/19/04: “I Got It The First Time!” by Harry Osborne (9-23-04)

…I continue to appreciate all the work that all of you are doing in the kingdom—continuing to confront error while fulfilling all your other many responsibilities. I always enjoy the new articles posted to the website and pass them on to as many others as will read them. I sent my brother, the preacher, the article by David Watts, Jr., and he thought it was so good and so well-thought-out and organized that he preached it on Sunday! … (9-15-04)

… If Ron would look, we have already divided over MDR.

So Ron sounds like Ed Harrell, and so I guess he will accept anyone? (9-15-04)

… Stay strong and do not be dismayed. They are acting as the tools of the devil… (8-31-04)

Dear Jeff...

...I continue to appreciate all the work that all of you are doing in the kingdom--continuing to confront error while fulfilling all your other many responsibilities. I always enjoy the new articles posted to the website and pass them on to as many others as will read them. I sent my brother, the preacher, the article by David Watts, Jr., and he thought it was so good and so well-thought-out and organized that he preached it on Sunday! There happened to be a couple in the audience who had wandered in, and they were both in their second marriage. ...felt fairly certain that they were able to see the sinfulness of the marriage situation they were in just from hearing this one lesson! He plans to follow up and see if they will make their lives right before God... (9-15-04)

…Jeff, I do commend you for the work you are doing exposing this Mental Divorce fallacy. I continue to be amazed at the growing acceptance of this position. Beyond that, whenever I consider the “unity-in-diversity” being practiced by those with conflicting doctrinal positions I feel I am existing in a surreal world. I pray that truth will supplant error in the hearts of men very soon… (9-14-04)

Jeff,

I appreciate your web site on mental divorce. MDR is a subject many in the church are avoiding and are sticking their heads in the sand in hope that the problem will go away. What the Bible says about MDR is very simple and one would need help to misunderstand it.

I do have several articles on the Internet concerning MDR in which you might interested. The web site is … (9-11-04)

…I wonder why Truth Magazine wouldn’t publish David Watts, Jr.’s great article? According to Connie Adams, it must have been because ... - it generated more heat than light and/or – wasn’t well written.

What a joke!

Jeff, please send me David Watts, Jr.’s e-mail address. (9-11-04)

looks good Jeff. (9-11-04)

Brother Belknap,

My name is … and I have been receiving your updates for sometime now. Could you please update my new e-mail address for future reference and updates…

Thank you and keep up the good work. (9-10-04)

Ron, will make it so they all will agree, But Connie has been all over FC, now look who he is writing for.

…what about if they all went to hold a gospel meeting and preached different views, sounds like denomination, huh? (9-8-04)

Jeff, I guess all the truth boys will have to have a separate lectureship, since they do not agree, what do you think? (9-8-04)

Thanks for the info. (9-8-04)

Jeff, Ron is sounding more and more like Ed Harrell. (9-8-04)

Yep, the progression of digression continues....what is left to say? I think they have all found a way to agree to agree (a step down from agreeing to disagree.) Now all that is left is to see how long it will take for other once-doctrinal matters to end up under the same permissive umbrella of Romans 14! Thanks, as always, for the heads up, since I don’t waste my money on the magazine anymore. (9-8-04)

…I can’t see how Donnie and Connie can read that and not be disturbed… (9-8-04)

Hello Jeff,

Since those of us who are not writing on a national basis rely on your website for info, it is important that if there was a reason that something was removed, that we understand that reason.

I am specifically referring to an article exposing the difference between the reality of Nevada law and the theoretical situation described by Haile, Halbrook and Osborne.

The text of the article that interests me is available at:

http://www.google.com/search?q=cache:F08nZoBCi-4J:www.jeffbelknap.com/mdrst
udies/QuickieDivorceProcedures.htm++%22lest+the+information+on+them+is+also+twisted+%5Bas+were+the+Nevada+divorce+laws+by+these+same+three+men%22&hl=en&ie=UTF-8

Yours in the Love of Christ, (9-7-04)

Reply:

…

Good to hear from you.

It is still there:

Quickie Divorces? (Not as quick, easy or one-sided as some brethren contend is possible)

Or http://www.mentaldivorce.com/mdrstudies/QuickieDivorceProcedures.htm

The link must of got messed up when we switched addresses.

The site is now www.MentalDivorce.com

Sorry for the mess up!

Jeff

Jeff,

Thanks for your continued study of this detail… (9-6-04)

Jeff,

Sure sorry about Weldon’s efforts to cause trouble. I’ve heard some of those clips (I’ll go check out the others) . . . Can’t imagine why he’d want to air this before non-Christians.

If you ever need some help with the website expenses - let me know. I’ll do what I can to help…

Call anytime - ……….. (home) and ………. (church building office). My wife’s name is …….

Keep up the good work. I’m sure it gets tiring - but you’re aligned with God’s Truth.

Take care, (9-6-04)

Jeff,

…After I sent my email to you - I checked your website again for some updates. Saw some of the contradictory statements Brother Rader seems to have made on this subject... so I can see cause for hope, yet reservation about whether he’ll come along and make a public refutation of this view… (9-5-04)

Jeff,

…people are being encouraged to enter into adulterous marriages... and its not easy to get them out of those... (9-5-04)

…

My recent effort pertaining to Truth Magazine and the Guardian of Truth Foundation continues with some mounting hate. I received an unbelievable private email from a list member regarding a private email that he had received from a preacher that was replete with hate and slander. Of course, the hate and slander was directed towards me. If they cannot answer your arguments and proof, they will try to personally destroy you. I understand that there is talk of having my meetings cancelled (:0). (9-5-04)

Jeff, did you read Connie’s article in Truth - against mental divorce? How can Truth boys fellowship each other? I guess like Christianity Mag. Huh? (9-5-04)

Thanks, Jeff, things are going about as anticipated. (9-4-04)

…We (some others and I on the list) have been waiting to see what Connie Adams, Donnie Rader, and Mike Willis would say regarding their intertwined work in both Truth Magazine and the Guardian of Truth Foundation in view of the very divergent views that they hold and teach regarding MDR. As stated,
Connie and Donnie maintain antithetical views with men such as Mike Willis (multiple causes for divorce) and Weldon Warnock (Board Member who holds the position of “putting away in the heart” performed by an already put away person)…

I have said that Truth Magazine and the Guardian of Truth Foundation is going to go down, “...in history
as the main purveyor of teaching that falls under the ‘mental divorcement’ canopy” for several reasons. Since April of 2001 (when Ron Halbrook really went public), I have observed more staff writers taking the second putting away view. In my observation, most of the writing in Truth Magazine since Ron clearly made known his position that touches on this particular MDR issue has been promoting “Ron’s teaching.”… (9-3-04)

…We couldn’t have subscribed to Gospel Truths at a better time. The article by David Watts Jr was like deja vu – It’s just a longer version of what … wrote in his letter to ….. It truly was an encouragement… (9-3-04)

Hello Jeff,

I hope you are holding up. The last article you sent is well done and should help in continuing to press the point of fellowship. The question will eventually have to be raised, “So how do folks like Connie and Donnie fellowship those teaching error?” …

I saw that you put Connie’s piece in your bulletin. I can see your opponents trying to use it against you by claiming that Connie can point out error without making a fuss or disfellowshipping anyone. That’s a sad indictment of Connie’s fence-straddling position. (9-3-04)

Jeff,

We finally received our first issue of Gospel Truths. It is the September 2004 issue. Did you read the article by David Watts, Jr. in this issue? … The article makes very plain the false position that Bill Cavender has taken. May the Lord be merciful to him, as I want the Lord to be merciful to me, and allow him time to repent. I have, and will continue to do so, prayed that he will repent. (9-2-04)

Great Job! (9-2-04)

…The views of Connie and Donnie versus the teaching of Mike Willis and Weldon Warnock are so practically different that they either result in a person committing fornication and encouraging to sin or binding where God has not bound and unscripturally pronouncing one a sinner. I say this in view of Weldon’s teaching that one may simply put away “in the heart” and marry another, notwithstanding the fact that they have already been put away by the guilty mate and Mike Willis’ teaching that there are multiple causes for divorcement (cp. Matt. 5: 32, 19: 9, I Cor. 7: 2ff.). These are not trivial nuance differences, but involve sin, either way.

I think the more troubling issue is how so many brethren view this whole matter. A large number have the understanding that brethren can start an organization that has the mission of preaching the gospel and evolves to offering a gospel meeting or lectureship (playing church), be involved organizationally as staff writers, etc. and still only function as individuals. I tell you what, so called non-institutional brethren who have this mentality are a setting duck for skilled institutional promoters and debaters. I never thought that I would see the day that we would attempt to justify the privately supported missionary societies among us by arguing that there is no cooperate action, but only individuals working individually. However, the thrust of my query has been the fellowship issue. How can brethren who are so divided on MDR (this is the subject at the time) pool their resources and work together in challenging other issues? I submit that basic truths pertaining to New Testament fellowship are being ignored and, in some cases, perverted… (9-2-04)

excellent.... great poem.... (9-2-04)

Excellent!!! (9-2-04)

…Here is the question: Connie Adams... who is an Associate Editor (serves with Mike Willis) believes and teaches what I believe to be the truth regarding the put away person, whether innocent or guilty of fornication. In a section titled “Editorial Left-overs,” Connie has a paragraph named, “Binding Where Jesus Did Not Bind” (Vol. XLVIII, No. 16, August 19, 2004). Again, Connie states the truth regarding all put away people, based on Matthew 5: 32 and 19: 9. Do you believe that Connie is justified and is conducting himself consistently in continuing to be an Associate Editor working with Mike Willis and a paper that has become an instrument for the put away innocent may later put away and marry another? On a lower level, Donnie Rader...also teaches the truth on this particular MDR issue and yet he serves as one of the staff writers for Truth Magazine… (8-31-04)

Jeff,

I’m sorry to hear of the trouble you are having but I know it is to be expected when Truth is not held above emotions and relationships. I pray you will continue to speak Truth no matter… (8-31-04)

...It is also a fact that the ones doing the challenging and exposing come into far more heat than men like Ron. This is just the way it is and it will never be any different… (8-30-04)

…Connie, Donnie, and Mike, and I are all public figures and thus we should be in a position to be publicly challenged and asked as to our teaching and conduct (cp. Gal. 2: 14).

We have mixed messages presently being sent relative to fellowship and you name the subject and practice. We teach one thing, but then join in fellowship with those with whom we doctrinally differ. (8-30-04)

Jeff,

I want to thank you for your continued stand and work regarding MDR. So many false teachers continue to try and slide their doctrine into articles and magazines and I appreciate the time and effort you take to expose them. (8-30-04)

Jeff, have you got Truth Mag. August 19, No. 16, and have you read what Connie Adams wrote on the bottom of page 3 and top of page 4 about “Binding Where Jesus did not bind?”

I doubt if any one will reply to what he said. (8-30-04)

…I want to know how Connie Adams and Donnie Rader can work so closely with men such as Mike Willis and a number of the staff writers for Truth Magazine in view of their serious differences on MDR… (8-29-04)

…I do not recall receiving any emails from Ron Halbrook regarding my challenges to him relative to his teaching on MDR, unless he emailed me to say he was too busy to be held accountable… (8-28-04)

Bro Jeff,

I received this from a brother in the Philippines. His response is below mine.

Dear …,

On …, I sent some information to you about a problem caused by false teaching concerning divorce and remarriage. I hope you have had the time to investigate it.

I do not know if you received any correspondence from Bro Ron Halbrook, but I am afraid that he may have contacted you and catch you unaware of what he has been teaching.

The attached file is what he has sent out to some preachers in the Philippines. I do not know who they are. The problem is that although Christ teaches that whoever marries a divorced women commits adultery, Ron and others likeminded with him, are teaching that this divorced woman is not REALLY divorced in God’s eyes until she decides in her heart to later “put away” her unfaithful husband (who had put her away) for his fornication. Then she can remarry. She is encouraged by Ron and others to use the 2nd putting away to avoid the teaching of Christ.

Ron says God doesn’t approve of the 1st putting away, so it can’t happen, only the 2nd one. Since she then “put away” her husband for fornication, it is alright to remarry. Jesus said in LUK 16:18b and whosoever marrieth her that is put away from {her} husband committeth adultery.

Please see the attached email. Many people have written Ron, but as of this writing, he has not made any public acknowledgement of this error.

My prayer is that it does no harm in the Philippines.

Your brother, …

Dear Brother …,

Thank you very much for your good information about Ron’s teaching in the attached email which I had opened in the internet. In my close scrutiny about the subject Ron committed erroneous teaching on this subject and maybe he would say “I still studying it” I hope Ron would come in a public acknowledgement of his erroneous teaching.

I hope his teaching on this subject does not harm to the brethren in the Philippines through to his presence influence in our place with his co-workers companion, co-Filipino preachers. I truly disappointed in his teaching on this matter.

Brother Jeff Belknap I appreciated his good an excellent subject of MDR. I will continue study this subject. May God bless you…

Your Brother in Christ, …

attached was the copy of: An Examination of Ron Halbrook’s Letter To Filipino Brethren (8-28-04)

Hello Jeff,

In looking over which sermons to take this weekend, I was looking at one on fellowship and saw that I had this quote in it: “Opposition to sin is impotent when you fellowship it” Tom Roberts (GOT M20, ‘97).

…They know how to talk it, but they can’t seem to apply it. (8-25-04)

Thanks so much, Jeff! You don't know all the good you have done…! You inspired us to have the courage to not continue to facilitate error, and we ended up moving on to better things and richer blessings in Christ Jesus! The edification we have gotten in just a month or two has already surpassed what we might have taken in … in four or five years! …

I so admire your ability to craft responses to some of these people---I wish I had the talent to do more of that. I pray for wisdom to be able to answer these false teachers and stop them in their tracks. I actually woke up in the night thinking of a response to one of the Reeves articles! I don’t think my brain stops even when I sleep. …

Have you had good response to the “Cavender” article? … I am just flabbergasted that he and others of his generation like Weldon Warnock have moved so far in their “positions.” I guess we can feel some of the frustration that the original apostles must have felt when they saw their friends and colleagues go over the edge with strange doctrines. Sometimes in the depth of despair, I am reminded of Paul’s somber tone in II Timothy 4 where so many once faithful friends had left him to stand alone at times. I know that there are still many, like yourself and your family, scattered in cities all over the country who are determined not to “bow the knee” to the popular fads and “trendy” doctrines being introduced in so many churches, but sometimes it is real work to convince myself that good brethren really do exist and that God is most assuredly in control. I think that is why your site is invaluable---it is a tangible place to go for the eyes to see and the brain to process that all is not lost.

…Please continue to send any updates, and we can only pray that there will be more articles like Connie Adams’ comments of yesterday to follow. Would it not be just wonderful to see this trend reverse? We can only hope and pray!!!!

Hang in there and best wishes, (8-24-04)

Hi Jeff,

… I have been enjoying studying the newest articles on your site and always look forward to new postings! …

Thank you for all the help you have been to … as he studies with his friends. I think it has been a wonderful thing for such a young man to bring himself up to speed on this difficult issue. He is learning much as he studies these things. We have conversations frequently about the intricacies of the doctrines and the insidious nature of the error being taught. In the end, we find that Jesus was plain and simple in His statements, but man is twisting it into the tangled mess of doctrinal error that it has become… (8-24-04)

Dear Jeff,

… Keep up the good work, brother! (8-23-04)

Hey Jeff,

Excellent updates on the website… (8-23-04)

Jeff, this is amazing, he does not preach any different, all your website about him is wrong! HA. We all are wrong, I suppose.

Make all the cases he wants, it is very simple, if one is put away, they cannot remarry… (8-23-04)

Jeff,

Good point. I want to study more and learn more. I want to have good solid biblical arguments to confront error. (8-22-04)

AMEN AND PREACH THE WORD - KEEP ON - FOY WALLACE KEEP ON PREMILLENIALIST FOR YEARS - SAVED MANY CHURCHES.

WE HAVE TO DO MORE, AND WILL… (8-22-04)

Jeff,

… Ron, still has not dealt with it has he? (8-22-04)

JEFF, MY ANSWER TO … IS - THE LIBERALS SAID THE SAME THING - SO DO WE GO ON AND FELLOWSHIP EVERYTHING? (8-21-04)

Jeff,

Thank you for those articles you sent me! …

I have one more favor to ask you. I have looked everywhere on your site for an article by Greg Gwin entitled, “The Matthew 19:9 Sequence.” If you have it, can you please send it my way? (8-21-04)

Jeff, your article in G T is good. I hope the word will spread. I am amazed he is able to stay where he is.

I see he did not respond to your article and doubt if he will. (8-21-04)

Jeff,

Thanks. … I’m having some written discussions with well known American preachers who have written articles in Spanish promoting “mental marriage.” And a lot’s of folks read their articles and are believing in them. So it makes it tougher but we’re getting the message across about ratifying a marriage covenant.

Thanks again. (8-20-04)

Brother Jeff,

… here down in … , … holding a meeting.

Question: What constitutes a marriage covenant? Many are saying that by simply living together that they are married. In Spanish it is called “union libre”, free union. (8-20-04)

Jeff,

I read your article that you posted about brother McGarvey. Thanks for posting it. Apostasy is everywhere and needs to be opposed. Thanks again! (8-20-04)

…, keep up the work. The letter responding to Ron should raise a few eyebrows. (8-20-04)

Dear Jeff,

Right on, with your article in GT, August. I’ve been fighting the Ron Halbrook doctrine on MDR since I heard it. Harry Osborne told me 14 months ago he fully agrees with Ron.

You wonder why Adams and others will not fight Ron on this? It is simple. PARTY SPIRIT… Now, get him to call Ron by name in the pulpit, teach against his doctrine, and that is another matter. WHY? Party spirit…

…These fellows are TIED TOGETHER BY party spirit. It is obvious. They love to preach meetings anywhere... against HOMER, Ed, etc... Don’t apply it against their DIFFERENCES...errors.

… The big question to me is, will those who know the truth sometime STAND for the truth when they see there is NO help for those in error in their party??????? I SURE HOPE SO. I think some eventually will! I think some are too good to not speak out eventually even if it dissolves the party. (8-19-04)

Hi Jeff,

… in …, Kentucky here. Just a quick note to encourage you to keep up the good work. I hope all is well with you and your family.

By the way, where are Haile, Reeves & Co. recently? Have they decided that “Mum’s the Word”? Not a new article on Bible Banner for the past 2 months. I figured J.T. might get some reaction from his recent challenge. (8-19-04)

Jeff,

I don’t know if you and I have ever met, but I appreciate the work you have done on the MDR issues.

… and I did a lot of study on these things back in the late 1980’s. We had both been influenced by the doctrine that says “When an unscriptural divorce takes place, the people are still married in the eyes of God.” I came out of central Indiana where that doctrine was held by many. … came out of southern …

While we were influenced by that teaching, we both believed that it was not possible to “put away a spouse” after a legal divorce had been granted. While we had some uncertainty about how to treat such cases, we knew there was something wrong with advocating a second putting away. Plain statements in the gospels forbid remarriage after the unlawful divorce. If a second putting away was allowed, then the Lord’s teaching forbidding remarriage was effectively eliminated in many cases. There was simply no basis for a second putting away in any of these passages.

Donnie Rader and (young) Jack Holt helped us clarify our understanding on these issues.

There are more things that I could say about our studies and our interaction with brethren who disagree with what we understand to be the truth, but I have written this short note merely to commend and encourage you in your work. (8-10-04)

More good food for thought for your readers… Hope you are hanging in there. (7-30-04)

If you do not already know, I am… Firstly, I would like to thank you for putting the time and effort that you put into mentaldivorce.com. We have really enjoyed the fact that we have all the information we need to combat the false MDR doctrines right at our fingertips! Of course, we are careful not to let mentaldivorce.com become the Bible, but instead, compare what it has to say to the Bible, and then draw our own conclusions… (7-29-04)

Brother Jeff thank you so much… May God bless and use you in His service even more so than ever. …appreciate your efforts in the battle of MDR. Thank you for defending the truth! (7-29-04)

When I discussed this with another - I made this point - and I think it is true of all these guys: Cavender, Warnock, Haile, Reeves, etc.

Most would probably agree that divorce breaks the marriage, but leaves the bond intact. But they ASSUME that fornication in the presence of only a bond allows a mate to put away a fornicator.

But if we are going to be people bound by what God’s Word says, then we must acknowledge that Jesus’ illustrations involve people where there is an intact marriage AND an intact bond - not just a bond.

Either we live with what is revealed - or we can make all our decisions based on upon what MIGHT be, or COULD be, or what we think SHOULD be... and then we’ll be just like the Baptists. (7-27-04)

Thanks Jeff.... you know, I’ve been preaching for about 20 years … perhaps – I’m able to put some of that secular experience to work and see these guys’ diversions, etc..... (7-27-04)

For me, the bulk of the issue is when a spouse puts another spouse away not for the cause of fornication. Surely, if we added up all divorces in the US - this accounts for 80% perhaps? Whatever the number - it would be the vast majority. Clearly, they are teaching a put away can remarry as soon as the original spouse does... which is clearly wrong.

But seems like Haile tries to discredit that idea by moving the discussion to some very rare cases. That’s nothing more than trying to disprove the clear and obvious by the fuzzy and obscure. Same technique the Baptists use to disprove the obvious truth of Baptism. I have no intention of getting pulled into a discussion with him on these matters… (7-27-04)

I appreciate these articles, and ask that you also add my … address to your mailings. I am in the process of moving there, and would like to continue the study. Thanks (7-27-04)

Brother, I know you are going through tough times. But, the Lord blesses those who stand firm for Him. I have no doubt that Weldon is jittery. He is under pressure and his false bravado is wearing thin. Ron is trying hard to shift ground and it isn’t working. Tim is trying the same thing. I think it is an indication that they are not secure in the position they have been presenting… (7-26-04)

Jeff, you are right. It is getting pretty pitiful out there and will get worse yet. The lines are being clearly drawn - by them. It is progressing in exactly the same way as fifty years ago. Talk about deja vu! (7-24-04)

I have worried so much about … because he is in the situation of having to take support for the work where he preaches … I have so much admiration for …, because even though he is already being threatened with losing financial support … he is not letting some brethren “extort” him into “bowing the knee to the G.O.T.!” He has been “bad-mouthed” and called names, etc. for not “going over to their side.” He has heard reports of brothers that he thought were on the same page saying awful things about him because he will not bend. I think that … is going to pick up some of his support so that he does not have to take support any longer from brethren who are not quite sure where they want to stand (or maybe by default, they are!) … (7-24-04)

I listened to Joel’s first affirmative this morning. He did a very good job…

Thanks again for the great web site. We’ll have to have you out for a meeting once we get settled in our new place… (7-22-04)

Good point about Rader and Ron. I think it is just a lot of politics and it will get worse. (7-22-04)

Jeff, … could you send me the quotes of Bill Cavender … We went to a VBS last night in … and in the adult class the subject being presented was Indifference. When talking about standing for the truth the speaker said the following and I felt like he was really stepping on my toes “Silence in the church is not golden, it’s Yellow”.

Excellent! I know you will take ‘heat’ for calling these men out, but I agree that it is high time to do so.

Wow!!!! What a week this has been, huh? I can only imagine that your email boxes are full about right now – and the hits your site must be taking – no wonder the server went down!

In addition to all the discussion of the lectureship, there also seems to be a lot of other talk regarding how far down GOT is going and how fast it is getting there! I cannot imagine how things have gotten so out of control so quickly there. I wonder if any of the GOT guys are feeling a little stressed right now or if they even have any conscience about all of this?

I was reading your “Encouraging Reader Responses” and my mouth hit the ground! Just when I think that they have sunk as low as they can go…! But realistically, it can and it will get a lot worse. They have set in motion a progression of digression which will gain momentum until you can no longer recognize these preachers as preachers of the gospel or the churches they influence as bodies of Christ any more!

I saw one of Bill Cavender’s quotes in the “Responses” section. Did anyone take note of his comment in the April 4, 2004 issue, page 8:

When she was eighteen years old, she married John Henry Parrott of Lookout Mountain, Tennessee, born in Dalton, Georgia. They had five daughters, Ida Ann being the oldest and my mother being the youngest, born in October, 1898. Some years later, Ida Ann was married to Joe Williams. They had two daughters. In the early thirties, Joe “took up with” another woman in that little town where we lived. He was openly “shacking up” with her. He wanted a divorce but “Aunt Ida” would not divorce him, as all that Methodist family did not believe in “the disgrace of a divorce.” Joe persisted in his adultery. He would not repent. He had rejected Ida, his lawful wife, and wanted to marry his “sweetie.” After some time Ida said he could have a divorce, provided he got the divorce “for adultery,” admitting his guilt. He did. He got the divorce on the grounds of his own adultery. He soon married his paramour. Ida was an innocent, put away, divorced woman. Jesus gave her the right to remarry. Soon afterwards she moved to Knoxville with her two girls, had a good job with the Tennessee Valley Authority, but never remarried….”

Did you catch that? “Ida was an innocent, put away, divorced woman. Jesus gave her the right to remarry.” Then he goes on down at the last of the article and states,

“When I first began hearing sermons and reading papers of the brethren, I learned they said the same things about divorce as I had heard I the Methodist Church, that divorce had “to be for adultery” and the divorce papers had to say so! I don’t ever hear that anymore. Now the divorce decree will say “irreconcilable differences” or “incompatibility” or “no fault” and my brethren say nothing about it! They are as silent as the tomb. What happened? What changed our minds and our preaching? Now it is popularly said that “one must know in his heart that adultery has been committed” (“mental divorce, I suppose) for the divorce to be scriptural and it doesn’t really make any difference what the legal, divorce papers say.”

Poor brother Bill! In the first place, he does not seem to have a clue in the world what “mental divorce” is, because he alludes to it at least twice in this article alone, and both times, he is off in what he says! I think he is a little mixed up! He gets all upset if someone doesn’t put “for adultery” on the divorce papers (a condition Jesus did not make) but totally ignores the fact that innocent or not, “Aunt Ida” does not have the right to remarry if she has been put away (per what the Lord DOES say!) Have our “pillars” in the church all lost their minds? …

There is so much to absorb right now that I will be spending some time reading daily until I catch up! I feel so badly right now for Greg Gwin—sounds like he was sent home bloody and battle-worn, but with his spiritual armor intact, much like Donnie Rader was when he preached his last time down at the F. C. lectures. After the shameful way Donnie was treated there, you would think that he would have had some sympathy for Greg Gwin! If Donnie’s conscience is not pricking him at this point, when he can see how far this is going both in print and in preaching, I would say that he is too far gone to redeem! What do you think? …

Well, it is way late here! I just got engrossed reading, and then I just had to write you!

More than ever, we are so grateful for your hard work and your earnest desire to teach people the truth and keep the church pure and as God would have it to be. We will be in touch again soon! (7-17-04)

Jeff, the pressure is on Weldon now seeing you have posted the challenge to debate. Keep that pressure on him by periodic reference to it. He will either have the discussion or be terribly raw. (7-17-04)

… We realize how enveloping MDR has been to your lives - 24 hrs a day it’s there. Whether it’s Weldon’s radio program, an email, a telephone call, or the sleepless nights ... your stand for the truth has changed your entire family’s lives…

Heard about the baptisms and are pleased to have two new brothers in Christ… (7-16-04)

…Why is alright for GOT and company to castigate these fellows for doing the exact same thing they now do with the same subject - MDR? Ron has clearly placed his view in the realm of Romans 14, they will not examine it openly, Truth will not allow dissenting views fair time in their paper. What is the difference??? (7-16-04)

Just a note to see where the site has run off to…we are having bad withdrawals and need it back ASAP! … is in an online debate tonight with … who attended the “Lectureship” yesterday, and we needed a quote! I was on late last night looking for something, and the site was not up then either. Hope all is well there and that nothing has happened to the website!

Jeff,

found this in the Truth archives - have you seen it? It believe it is in the last year - 1996 that is presently up on their website.

Occurred to me how everything that Mike was saying (no doubt about Hailey) is now true about men like Warnock and Cavender.

…I want to keep the pressure on Mike to print my article...thus putting pressure on Cavender. If all fails - then I’ll print it in some other paper - and would like to make it available to you too if you feel it is helpful. (7-15-04)

Is there any possibility of your providing me with a CD containing Ron’s charts, your reviews, etc., etc. Be glad to reimburse for your time, etc. (7-12-04)

Jeff, got your e-mail about Ron, it seems he is trying to make it more complicated. Does he ever, or has he ever replied to you? (7-9-04)

Jeff - thought I’d say you’ve done a good job pulling this together… (7-9-04)

Thank you so much for your compassionate response and most especially for your fervent prayers. I feel right now that in the city of …, we stand alone. That is mind-boggling to me. … is a congregation that is known for its hard stand against all forms of worldliness and doctrinal error. It is one of the few congregations left in this day and time (at least in this state) where young people do not go to proms, members do not dress immodestly, and attendance is consistent at all three services. (I know there are probably those who do these things at times, but we are unaware of it being practiced openly.) The elders renounced the errors regarding creation coming from the Florida College supporters. We have been scoffed at by brethren who think we are TOO conservative, simply because we still practice church discipline. This is why I find it so disturbing that not one person will stand with us on this issue.

I don’t feel like this is a difficult thing to see—the simplicity of Christ’s words. I do not feel that I have superior intelligence that gives me an edge in “getting it.” So why can no one else see it? … For the life of me, I just do not see why not even one other person seems even troubled by this…

Again, thank you so very much for your encouragement. I pray every day and night that these folks will somehow be pricked to see the light and turn from this dreadful path. History dictates that repentance is unlikely, but I will still keep praying…

… told him that we still love everybody, but we cannot tolerate the things that are creeping into the church there. I am wondering if we are not going to have more success teaching people now that we are gone—more so than we did than when we worshipped with them. It seems that at least for some, we got their attention when we left…

I went to the mailbox this evening, and there was a copy of Truth Magazine in it! I could not believe it! It was addressed to me! I wonder who sent that! ... More likely, it is one of my brethren who wants to make sure that we still get copies of TM since we are not picking them up on the way out the door anymore. I guess they are going to force-feed us, or so they think! I really have no further interest in getting the magazine, as I don’t believe it purports the whole truth. There is just no telling what they will print next, in my humble opinion…

The article rates up there with your best. Well done, well stated, and well documented… (7-8-04)

…Thanks again for the updates and the good articles. I keep hoping that we can do some good in this area by keeping people thinking on these things and not growing apathetic and beginning to tolerate error in the churches… (7-8-04)

Lord, they have killed thy preachers who stand for truth, and have overrun churches; and I am left alone, and they seek my life. But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have reserved to myself seven thousand men, who have not bowed the knee to the G.O.T. (7-8-04)

Thanks so much for the encouragement and for the articles. I want to sit and meditate upon them later tonight. I read through each one quickly, and they offer some excellent points which will be helpful in our continuing spiritual battle… (6-29-04)

I received your info. Will read and respond. I appreciate you very much. Thanks (6-4-04)

…In my last move I lost getting the updates to your web site. Could you put my e-mail address in to receive updates? Thanks (5-27-04)

Good article (“Can man sunder a marriage against God's will?”). Contains lots of good points. (5-27-04)

Great article in Bible Matters…In case you have not noticed (I am sure you have), the intensity has increased regarding the MDR issue. Those advocating matters contrary to the scriptures are becoming more emboldened and full of hate. The next stage is for this controversy to really become nasty (more than it has). This is the stage that tests the weaklings and the strong.

Jeff, that is an excellent article, well written. That gets at the very heart of this whole issue. When it suits these guys, they will make a distinction between marriage and bond but will turn around and make them simultaneous when it helps their position. How deceitful. (5-19-04)

Jeff, this is really pitiful. I don’t know how Connie can write an article like this with any kind of clear conscience. As I said earlier, I think Connie has sold out. Cavendar can’t even write a lucid article. Everything he said was to provide a frame to hang a few statements on that he wanted to get before people. Shame!

… They are intent on setting the GOT positions in the minds of brethren in order to gain a following and the lectureship is the means of doing that. They just keep on pulling one ungodly thing after another to build up their human institution. (5-19-04)

Hey! I have been thinking about you for a long time and believe it or not I got your update letter the same day!!

…and remember that there are people out here that you are touching in a mighty way! Never give up the faith! (5-9-04)

It seems to me a lot of people do a lot of talking about mdr and forget when God recognizes a marriage. It is in the US of A. when two people, one man and one woman, of legal age get a license to marry and go thru the legal proceedings to marry, then in God’s sight they are married.

The reverse of this is true to get a divorce. God has placed MDR as part of the laws of this culture. The same is true in any culture, according to the accepted laws, or customs of a culture. (5-7-04)

Quick note to let you know how much I appreciate your work. The church in … is doing well, standing squarely in the truth and with elders who demand that the truth on MDR be clearly and forcefully taught (not that I have to be told that, to be sure!). I continue to lose respect for brethren who ought to know better and who present themselves as paragons of virtuous instruction, when in fact they are dumb dogs who cannot (and will not) bark (Isaiah 56:9ff). We have many “faithful” preachers in our area who hold inordinate allegiance to Guardian of Truth Magazine and their pulpiteering cronies.

Incidentally, send me a link to J. T. Smith’s article on Mark 10:11 – tried to find it on your website, but didn’t have time to plow too deep….

I’ve been reading the articles about what Weldon is doing via radio. I can’t believe he would air this out in such a manner - but then again it does follow suit.

I hope you are holding up well with all this controversy. Keep up the good work and keep your chin up. I’ll be in a meeting in your neck of the woods … (5-6-04)

Now if he can understand the above, which is from scriptures, why is he contending for the “second putting away?”

I sent a copy of The Seven Sins of Divorce to a preacher in…. I just talked to him on the phone about this. He said very good and has passed it to about 10 other people. Comments from them very good. (4-23-04)

Thanks for the encouragement. The fierceness of battle ebbs and flows, but never ceases. Satan has not surrendered nor left the field of battle. And so we stand ... must stand. Rest from conflict comes with our retirement from the earthly scene. Until then, we contend earnestly for the faith. So be it! (4-22-04)

Our brethren are turning against the clear teaching of scripture for only one reason: To fit the needs and demands of our increasingly loose society. Instead of faithful men who are capable of imparting truth that is unchangeable and unerring, we have developed a cult of preachers who shield themselves as conservative thinkers and teachers, while they bend the truth in every possible way to fit what they MUST believe is a suitable and workable alternative to even more liberal thinking.

I’m losing – or have already lost – respect for many older men, who in an earlier time were mentors and men upon whom I looked with respect. For my part, I’m growing more skeptical of our cult of preachers, day by day, and am fearfully cynical of a growing number of younger men who are embracing error with absolutely no thought of the consequences. I am very uneasy at my own cynicism; this is a terrible way to feel about men who should be sharing my concerns for the lost.

Hello Jeff,

Things have been going great out here in ... . Sometime I’m thankful that I no longer live close to brethren who make a mockery of the Lord’s Church by teaching false doctrines as mental divorce. I see that Warnock is on the war path. It is shameful that he calls himself a gospel preacher.

Anyway, I received an e-mail from ... , a Christian from the ... church of Christ where ... . He is on Mars list and as I’m sure you know by now, it is debating mental divorce. Anyway, the e-mail from that list has Dudley Ross Spears denying the truth he use to teach in preference for mental divorce. Don Martin and Richard Dodson have been the sole voices of sanity on that list on this subject. The admission e-mail isn’t clearly definitive to the teaching of mental divorce but I’ve enclosed it here if you want to use it. I send this to you with Richard Dodson’s permission; in fact, insistence that you see the message.

If you need a break from the stress, just remember there are many here who would love to see you all again (...). You know the beauty of the ...!

Keep up the good fight.

P.S. I have a link to Jeff’s web site on our web site (...) ...

Richard Dodson to Dudley Ross Spears and the list.

Dudley has written me privately to say that he has

changed his position.  Below is a copy of his note.

This needs to be made public because he is repenting

of a previous view that was preached openly.  Given

the reputation of Dudley and the office he holds as an

elder I believe he should now openly proclaim why he

changed his view.

Richard Dodson

--- Dudley Ross Spears <drs4285@bellsouth.net> wrote:

Dudley Spears to Richard Dodson,

Yes, I've changed my position.

Best wishes,

Dudley Ross Spears, drs4285@bellsouth.net

----- Original Message -----

From: "Richard Dodson" <dodrh2000@yahoo.com>

To: <mars-list@mtsu.edu>

Sent: Thursday, April 15, 2004 2:37 PM

Subject: Re: Biblical Divorcement and Civil Law

Richard Dodson to Dudley Ross Spears and the list.

Dudley I would like for you to clear something up

for me.  The exchange you had with Don Martin confused

me as to your position.  I went to the Warfield Blvd

church of Christ web site.  I saw that you are an

elder as well as the preacher.  After going to the

tab marked "guest sermons and tidbits" I found a

sermon outline given by Tim Haile.  In this sermon he

advocates exactly what Don Martin accuses you of

advocating.  That is my understanding anyway.

However I remembered reading some radio sermon spots that

I thought you had given.  I found the title listed

on this web site under the tab "radio sermons".  I

found the title I was looking for.  It was number 161

titled, "Marriage -- A Sacred Right".  Now there

was no link to this radio spot but I went back to a

web site where I first saw it.  It's called "HOME PAGE

OF "THOUSANDS OF SERMONS AND STUDIES".  Here is the

link. <http://thousandsofsermons.com/home.htm>  It is

my understanding you are the man responsible for this

radio sermon.  Here is a snip from what is stated.

"A divorced person has no right to marriage. There

is a difference made in Scripture between a divorced

person and one who divorces a spouse. Jesus

included this following statement in the Sermon on the

Mount.

"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 5:32). The one

who divorces a spouse and the one divorced are both in

the passage. Nothing at all is said about remarriage

in this passage, except that anyone who marries a

divorced person commits adultery. The verb for "to

commit adultery" is in passive form. English does

not lend itself well to translation of passive

infinitives. Try it yourself. How can you

translate a passive form of committing an act? The passive

means the subject is being acted on by something else.

Adultery is one of those categories of sinful

actions and relationships involving all who are part of

it.

There are three parties to the committing of

adultery in the verse. There is first, the husband who for

no reason of sexual misbehavior, divorces his wife.

There is second, the divorced wife who is "caused to

commit adultery." Third, there is the next husband a

divorced wife marries. The answer the Lord gives in this

instance is that anyone who marries anyone who is

divorced is committing adultery."

This radio spot goes on to state this. <snip>

"There are probably a million or so "think-sos"

and "what-ifs" that may be offered, but the Lord is

still heard to say, "whoever marries a divorced woman

(or man) commits adultery" (Matthew 5:32, NASB). Once

a person is divorced, either for sexual immorality

or not, what right do we have to modify his word and

add all of our very astute reasons why a divorced

person can be married by someone and God will lovingly

accept it?"

This radio spot is in complete disagreement with the

sermon posted by Tim Haile on the Warfield Blvd

church of Christ web site.  My question for you Dudley is
have you changed your view?  Thanks for

considering.

=====

Richard Dodson (4-21-04)

Joel did an excellent job, maybe we need to send them to Weldon, H. O., Ron H. & Cavender! (4-15-04)

One of the frequent ways of arguing in debate is to say A is the same as B, B being so extreme that everybody will agree that it is wrong. Therefore A is wrong on the same basis. You did a good job of doing that. (4-12-04)

I just wanted to say thanks for the plethora of materials on the mental divorce issue. I’ve long been puzzled by the justifications for the position. When that debate happened last year I jotted down a few thoughts about that … and I’ve had discussions with some of the ones involved with Truth Mag. I only wish that there could be open discussions and fair studies about it. (4-12-04)

I don’t consider myself a good prophet, but I knew that brother Warnock was going to find a way to not make good on his word.

That is one of the reasons why I respect brother Reeves (I disagree with his teaching on MDR, and I feel that he made a terrible defense of his position) but he was good on his word to debate.

By the way, have you read the article by Bill Cavender on 4/18/04’s in Truth Magazine called “Observations and Experiences Regarding Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage”?

I knew that in order to be consistent with this false position they would soon have to teach that just “shacking up” was good enough, that that is Biblical marriage.

He concludes this first part of his article by giving an example of members of the church (the husband being a deacon) who were not married but lived together for over 25 years saying:

“In the sight of God and man, they were husband and wife, a legitimate marriage and family by God’s laws and man’s laws.”

I’m really not surprised, for the Scripture says “But evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.” 2 Tim 3:13

If this continues, “Truth Magazine” should consider dropping the “Truth” from its name and just be another “Magazine”.

Psalm 119:11-12 Thy word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against Thee. Blessed art Thou, O Lord; teach me Thy statutes. (4-11-04)

Thanks for the update Jeff and wish you and family the best of every blooming thing this spring in the mountains. In His love - (4-10-04)

Thought I’d mention that I found your cartoon on your “It is nothing” page excellent…

Bill Cavender is preaching in … next week in a meeting. He’s quite on board with this mental divorce stuff isn’t he? Plan to see him and see if he’ll chat with some of us that are opposed to this mess. (4-10-04)

…I preach at the … Church of Christ here in …. is the next town over at … - and stands for what is right. … is over at … and is also opposed to this mental divorce stuff. He’s relatively new there….

I’ve also leaned on my old friend John Humphries in Louisville. I like John’s questions on your site.

I have all of the lessons Ron presented in Tacoma, WA in February of this year. The Q&A sessions are quite revealing, and the diatribe presented by his constituent on Saturday of the week’s meeting, reveals just how far his disciples are taking his doctrine. Virtually anyone who gets an unscriptural divorce, and remarries, commits adultery, thus freeing the offended party. How can anyone put limits on TIME or CIRCUMSTANCE seeing that the Scriptures, in the words of Ron, “do not deal with this scenario.” Let me know if you are interested, and where to send the CDs. There are 12 in all.

Jeff Thank for all the articles and information you send me from time to time on marriage, divorce and remarriage!!!! Keep up the good work. (4-10-04)

Jeff, it seems some are completely ignoring the last part of Mt. 19:9, “and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.”

If as they say that the innocent one can remarry, then what about the one Jesus said if she remarried she would be committing adultery? …

I agree with you on mental divorce, etc. Our son is currently in a bad marriage and seeking divorce. What we need to know…

Bill Cavender’s article in the March 18 issue of Truth titled “Observations and Experiences Regarding Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage (1)” is one that demands every thinking Christian’s attention. I predict that it will likely be historic… (3-30-04)

I just returned home after an extended trip into the western part of the USA and obtained a tape of a Q & A session with Ron Halbrook in Tacoma, Washington, on February 16 of this year. In that session, he was asked about certain positions and situations regarding MDR and he THEN gave his answer but “excused” himself of any guilt by saying, “...but I’m still studying it.” I just today read your article on Jeff Belknap’s website and I about fell over!

I am no fool. I have heard that line before – when one holding an erroneous position is unwilling to defend it publicly after teaching it publicly. By Ron’s own words, he should keep quiet on the issue until he is FINISHED “studying it.” In the meantime, he is leading souls into sin!

JEFF, THIS IS AMAZING, IT SEEMS SOME OF THESE BIG PREACHERS ARE COMING UNGLUED!

JESUS DID NOT KNOW THAT ONLY GOD CAN DO THIS, SO MEN CANNOT PUT AWAY THEIR MATE, I GUESS.

… says you’re facing some particular difficulties right now with outside influences affecting your local defense of the truth.

I still just cannot believe that Brother O’Neal would send out these letters. … How sad.

I do want to send a reply, especially since Tom has mailed us copies of the letter unsolicited. It would be different if he had merely written an article in a publication or such, but since he has mailed these to, possibly everyone in the congregation, I feel that it is only right to reply to the same.

… it looks to me like Brother Tom is only trying to cause division, I will send a reply…His words in his letter are not written as though he were seeking truth or debate, but merely trying to cause strife. (2-6-04)

Jeff, I’m sure Harry sends these articles to you, but just in case you haven’t seen this one I thought it interesting. Seeing that Harry and company has been trying, deviously, to get your website shut down, and harm you in the doing, it seems a little hypocritical to publish this.

Reason for Hope; January 28, 2004; Dividing Churches by H. E. Phillips… (2-6-04)

Tim is like the bully on Andy Griffith that kept challenging Opie and the other boys “to step across the line” if they wanted to question his leadership. Finally Opie got tired of it and stepped across the line. Then the boy made a line a little further back, and dared Opie to step across the line. Opie stepped across the line, and the boy went home.

Tim has probably “negotiated” with over a hundred preachers (Christians and denominational) yet not one time has he ever had a debate. I guess 100 times straight, the other fellow just wouldn’t be “fair.” (1-26-04)

I read all your material concerning bro. Warnock. It truly makes me sad. I believe the Beech Creek West Va. church that supports his radio program is where I preached in two gospel meetings nearly 40 years ago. This was a new congregation beginning who opposed the false teaching of Roy Hall on marriage and divorce. Now, 40 years later they are supporting false teaching again.

I appreciate your web page. I am thankful you are fighting the battle. When brethren cannot answer your arguments they will label you of being a hobby-rider.

I am convinced you are capable of answering any argument Weldon might put forth in a debate. However, I believe you and the church there would be wise not to debate him in Beckley. He will do much to hurt the cause there…

I was not at all surprised that Tom O’Neal would not answer your question. You don’t need Tom to preach for you in a series of meetings. His refusal to answer your question tells us loud and clear where he stands.

I wish Connie Adams and Jim Deason would take Weldon on again, as they did 19 years ago. It will be interesting to see what happens with Truth Magazine. I do not believe Connie, and Donnie will have the courage to take on Weldon and Ron, & apparently Larry. It might be that Mike will not allow it. It is amazing how much power brethren can obtain to control others when they become editors of religious papers.

Hang in there brother. I am sure you are doing much more good than you realize. 3-8-04

I read your article “Brother Warnock’s Fifth and Sixth Weeks In A Row” … He has not made any effective arguments on this topic and am convinced that he will/cannot. It is true that he is well thought of in SW WV, but there may be more brethren there who are interested in truth than those who may be ‘preacher followers.’

Dear Jeff, I just finished studying the 15 page, Fifth & Sixth Weeks. Weldon Warnock was my room mate @ FCC. He has gone on the greater things, and so did Solomon. I am sad and could, and do cry, that he has taken the false position on MDR. Why? Oh! Why? Can’t he listen to my good friend Connie Adams, who was also at FCC with Weldon and myself, and by the way is not a boy! You can use this message anyway you would like. I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ. I did not have to ask anyone to explain what the Bible teaches on MDR. 3-4-04

I see it just like you in par 11 where Radar and Adams choose to maintain fellowship with some that teaches error. I don’t have all the details, but I seem to see this in a lot of the magazine websites. There does not seem to be much unity, also when did refuting error become a hobby. I say keep up the work. 3-4-04

What about the innocent mate whose spouse puts them away but then never remarries another (or doesn’t commit fornication in any way), why can’t the “innocent” then remarry someone else?

What about the innocent mate who is repeatedly “defrauded” (I Corinthians 7:2-5), why can’t the “innocent” party put away and remarry someone who will keep their vows?

What about the innocent mate whose spouse disappears (never to be seen or heard from again), why can’t this “innocent” spouse put away and remarry another?

What about the innocent spouse whose partner commits a serious crime (against their mate’s will) and is sentenced to “life without the possibility of parole,” why can’t the “innocent” remarry another?

Taking your site off the web would be giving them exactly what they want. 3-3-04

Jeff, have you seen the latest church bulletin from Tom Roberts? The article is by Harry Osborne on Does Teaching Truth Violate Autonomy? It is an attempt to justify, though not directly naming names, what O’Neal and Warnock are doing. It is such a pitiful perversion of scripture. 3-2-04

That is an outstanding article. It is put together so well and reads smoothly. Let me know what kind of reaction you get from it, 3-2-04

I know you are going through difficult times. Brethren can be so cruel. The devil is hard at work on many levels right now. Weldon and others in his circle have imagined that they have some special dispensation to do whatever they please even though it divides brethren. I pray for both your strength and peace of mind. 2-28-04

I have seen your most recent work on your website, and would like to thank you for your good work. I also have not bowed the knee to Baal.

Your response is very encouraging. It breaks my heart that so many otherwise doctrinally sound, faithful brethren are encouraging and enabling those who are not eligible for scriptural marriage to commit and remain in adultery. My former spouse divorced me in …. and many of my brethren have encouraged me to remarry, almost ridiculing my convictions. Please do not let anyone talk you into discontinuing your website. 2-19-04

You are doing an outstanding job opposing Weldon and the other mental divorce errorists.

Keep up the good work! 2-17-04

I appreciate your hard work with your site. I know it is a lot of work keeping up with all the false teaching going on!! 2-17-04

I usually read all the new material that you post... Hope you are having a wonderful day. 2-17-04

I have twice challenged Warnock to debate this orally, once some years before you started your site, and once after. He has always refused… 2-17-04

When I read the article in Truth Magazine I told … that you were being talked about without the author mentioning your name. Glad to see from your response on the website, that you went directly to the source and asked him about it. Satan is the one happy about all this false teaching and division. Please continue to stand where the Bible stands. No more and no less. 2-11-04

I read Tom’s material and for what it is worth I am not surprised at his tactics. These guys want to be generic in their beliefs and want to make faithful brethren out to be the one’s causing the division. This is very similar to what Elijah went through (I Kings 18:17-18). Keep your head up. BTW, where do they get this “test of fellowship” garbage? Does not II John 9-11 make all doctrinal false teachers “tests of fellowship”? 2-11-04

I have read much of your material and find it to be well reasoned and consistent with my understanding of God’s expressed will on MDR. Thank you for your work and dedication to refuting error and correcting misconceptions and errant applications… 2-6-04

… I appreciate getting the updates to your web site. Your work is appreciated… 2-5-04

I got a call today from a friend … who worships in … where … is the regular preacher. … must be on your mailing list. He brought up to me on his own how good your site is. We were both agreed that the GOT clique wants the issue to go away, but you won’t let it. Don’t let the “hobby rider” accusation bother you. That accusation usually means that you are preaching what’s needed and you are stepping on toes that need stepping on. Thanks for all your work in the “mental divorce” arena. 2-3-04

Keep hitting TRUTH(?) MAGAZINE for its closed door policy. I quit taking it a couple of years ago or so. My … sent two articles to it several years ago. One was on taking the L.S. out of the assembly.....like in a hotel room or boat in the Mediterranean while on a trip to the holy (?) land. Of course, too many connected with Truth Magazine lead such trips. Couldn’t let that article get in the paper! How about fishing on Sunday and taking the L.S. when the fish are not biting? Just as much Bible for this as on a trip with your favorite preacher. 2-3-04

By the way... haven’t you figured it out yet? It is only a “hobby” when it is the other guy’s issue. The inconsistencies of some brethren never cease to amaze me. 2-2-04

Thank you for using … tract in your “excerpts from MDR Tracts” updated 1/29/04. …the date this tract was written (1971) to emphasize the point that this is not a “new” doctrine? … 2-2-04

Jeff, the questions you asked Raymond are too hard. They are like the ones I asked Harry. 2-2-04

“The dove might consider air resistance a problem, something to be overcome, but without it the dove couldn’t fly.” ~ Immanuel Kant 2-2-04

Hang in there! It’s always tough on the guy who makes the most progress and clears the way for others to follow. You’ve got God and the majority of the people beside you all the way! 1-31-04

Sounds like Weldon is trying to win this battle again. He lost in 1985/86. I don’t think he likes to lose. I hadn’t thought about the point Connie Adams makes about fornication before marriage. That’s a wonderful point. What does Connie say about this issue these days? 1-31-04

GOOD chart on M-D-RM. KEEP IT UP. Charts like this reduce this false teaching to an absurdity. If points like these are constantly before those in error, perhaps their honesty will take over and they can SEE a point. 1-19-04

Jeff, I think your assessment is correct. …told me that he had information that the whole TM group had been advised to back off and shut up… 1-13-04

Jeff, I love your web site and I’m sure it is doing a world of good for those who love the Lord. Thanks, 1-12-04

Hey Jeff,

Very good article. Clear, and to the point. I may steal your chart and use it. 1-10-04

I enjoyed your excellent article on the seven sins; of an unscriptural divorce…

I am very thankful for your website. I know it will save many preachers from being duped by this false teaching on marriage & divorce. 1-7-04

I have enjoyed reading your website and updates on the MDR controversy… 1-6-04

More and more, this issue (at least in my mind) is boiling down to the narrow concept of a put away person still maintaining the opportunity to put away their former mate. So much of the rest of the rhetoric is not terribly significant – just side issues. Of course, there is absolutely no Bible for that argument, but the mental divorcers are desperate to prove it. I think that what you all … have been emphasizing about the fact that the instruction of Matthew 19:9a are directed toward married people, not divorced people, is an important key to destroying their position.