But why must we ignore the Scripture to somehow pretty-up God to a post-modern world that finds polygamy abominable? It's almost as though we think of God as barbaric (considering His past stance on polygamy) and thus must make excuses and deny the obvious when pulling Him out of history. I believe that the three reasons pointed out in the Daily Soap Box are still valid in understanding God's previous condoning of polygamy.
When God gave laws to not end polygamy, but govern it, then it is dirt-poor exegesis to believe God did not condone it. I would also add that it is quite unfair for Pastor Mark to compare polygamy and child molestation (or more accurate - statutory rape) in his opening dialogue. One does not guarantee the other. Without excusing Yearning for Zion's infractions against the law, let's not forget that the Texas Department of Family Services has had to drop the vast majority of charges stemming from their intrusion into this religious body, nor forget the vast deceit and unethical behavior on the part of the authorities toward this polygamist sect.
