How come in some churches when a pastor gets divorced they get fired, whereas in others they are still allowed to stay as an active pastor even after divorce?We know, from Scripture, that a pastor can and should be removed from his role for two reasons: (1) Major theological error (1 Timothy 1:3) and/or (2) Moral failure (Titus 1:5-9). Divorce falls into the later category. If a pastor gets divorced, he should be removed from office for a period of time and rebuked for what has happened. However, there should also be a restoration period. If the pastor is truly repentant and commits to leading a life of moral purity, he can be restored to ministry. This is the principle outlined by Jesus in Matthew 18:16:
“If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother."
The church is doing everyone a disfavor if there is:
(1) No rebuke or correction (if the divorced pastor is not removed from ministry for a duration of time to seek counseling, etc.)
(2) No restoration (if the divorced pastor is not allowed to return to ministry - even if he repents)
A divorced pastor should be removed from ministry for a period of time, so he can seek counseling, support and reconciliation. If he truly repents, the local church should be gracious to him and restore him to active ministry. That's the principle. The pastor should not be fired without restoration in mind. But on the other hand, he should not be allowed to do ministry for a period of time after his divorce.
Friend, this is an issue dear to my heart as I know some of my pastor-friends have gone through this painful situation. Whatever happens, let us speak the truth in love (Eph. 5) and be gracious as God has been gracious to us.
For further reading, read more about divorce and remarriage here. Also read about pastoral restoration here.
[Answered by Pastor HM]
