A United States-based pastor, Israel Ford, has stirred controversy after taking a second wife and arguing that the belief that a man should have only one wife is not supported by the Bible.
Ford, who is associated with LifeWorks Church in Wickliffe, Ohio, announced the marriage in a Facebook post on Sunday, sharing a video recorded at the church.
The pastor introduced his new wife, Shakayla Ford, while identifying his first wife as Lydia Ford, who was also present in the announcement.
He argued that people had been taught to believe that marriage should involve only one wife, describing the position as inconsistent with biblical teachings.
Ford urged his followers to watch a sermon in which he intended to explain his position, adding that the full message would be uploaded later in the week.
He acknowledged that his stance might attract criticism and prove unpopular among some Christians, including fellow pastors who might be unwilling to discuss the subject publicly.
The cleric also maintained that he would not abandon what he believed to be God's revelation simply to gain public approval.
Ford said he was prepared for some people to distance themselves from him over the decision, adding that he remained comfortable with the possibility of losing their support.
His announcement has brought renewed attention to differing interpretations of biblical teachings on marriage and the debate over monogamy within Christian communities.
