Controversial statement sparks debate on Christian marriage and biblical interpretation

Apostle General Ray Michael, Head Pastor of Cedar Miracle Center, New Legon, has ignited intense debate across social and religious circles after declaring that Christians are permitted to marry more than four wives, insisting that the Bible protects polygamy.

According to the outspoken preacher, modern Christian teachings have misrepresented biblical marriage by promoting strict monogamy while ignoring numerous scriptural examples of polygamous unions approved or tolerated in the Bible. He argued that nowhere in Scripture does God explicitly forbid a man from marrying multiple wives.

Apostle Ray Michael referenced prominent biblical figures such as Abraham, Jacob, David, and Solomon, all of whom had multiple wives, to support his claim. He emphasized that these men were still considered chosen and blessed by God, suggesting that polygamy itself was not condemned in biblical times.

“The Bible did not criminalize polygamy; rather, it regulated it,” he stated, adding that biblical laws often focused on protecting women and children within polygamous households rather than abolishing the practice altogether.

The preacher further challenged comparisons between Christian marriage and Islamic marriage limits, arguing that while Islam restricts men to four wives, Christianity, according to Scripture, places no numerical limit. He stressed that cultural traditions and Western influence have shaped church doctrines more than the Bible itself.

However, his remarks have been met with strong criticism from theologians, pastors, and Christian marriage counselors, many of whom argue that New Testament teachings promote monogamy, pointing to Jesus’ references to “one man and one woman” and Paul’s instruction that church leaders should be “husbands of one wife.”

Social media reactions have been sharply divided. While some supporters praised Apostle Ray Michael for “speaking biblical truth without fear,” others accused him of misinterpreting Scripture to justify personal or cultural preferences.

The statement has reopened long-standing debates within Ghana’s Christian community about biblical authority, cultural context, and modern Christian ethics, particularly regarding marriage, family structure, and leadership within the church.

As discussions continue, many believers are calling for deeper theological dialogue to clarify whether biblical precedent should override contemporary Christian doctrine.