Biblical teaching cultural, US pastor defends taking second wife

Prophet Israel Ford, the lead pastor of LifeWorks Church in Wickliffe, Ohio, has defended his decision to take two wives amid criticism from Christians. Ford recently introduced his second wife, Minister Shakayla Ford, during a church service, sparking debate over biblical teachings on monogamy. Ford argues that the "one wife" requirement applies only to certain leadership positions and not to all Christians, suggesting that the scriptural rule is culturally influenced.

Critics question why Christians can accept cultural interpretations of other biblical passages, like women remaining silent in church, but reject the idea of multiple wives for church leaders. Ford's wives, Lydia and Shakayla, have explained their acceptance of the arrangement, with Lydia initially rejecting the idea but later concluding that God had directed Ford to consider polygyny.

Shakayla, who previously served under Ford's spiritual mentorship, acknowledges the transition to being a wife but emphasizes her continued role as a spiritual leader in her own right. Ford maintains that the arrangement is a family dynamic, with Shakayla stating she is not seeking to replace Lydia or compete for leadership in the church.