The Bible teaches that divorce is generally against God's design for marriage, which is meant to be a lifelong union. However, it does allow for divorce and remarriage under certain circumstances, primarily related to sexual sin and abandonment.
Biblical Teaching on Divorce
- Jesus states that divorce and remarriage, except on the grounds of sexual immorality (porneia), is adultery (Matthew 19:9; Matthew 5:32). This exception is often understood as permission for the innocent party to divorce if their spouse commits adultery
- The Apostle Paul teaches that a believer should not divorce, but if separation occurs, the person should remain unmarried or be reconciled (1 Corinthians 7:10–11). However, if an unbelieving spouse abandons the marriage, the believer "is not bound" and may be free from the marriage bond (1 Corinthians 7:15), which some interpret as allowing divorce and possibly remarriage in such cases
Remarriage After Divorce
- Remarriage after divorce is generally considered adultery unless the divorce was due to the biblical exception of sexual immorality or possibly abandonment by an unbelieving spouse. In these cases, remarriage is seen as permissible and not sinful
- The Bible does not explicitly command remarried couples to divorce, nor does it label remarriage itself as sinful once a biblical divorce has occurred. Instead, remarried couples are encouraged to live faithfully and honor God in their new marriage (Ephesians 5:22-33)
- Some Christian traditions hold a stricter view, teaching that remarriage is never permitted unless the former spouse has died, emphasizing the permanence of marriage (Romans 7:2-3; Mark 10:1-9)
Summary
- God hates divorce because it breaks the covenant of marriage (Malachi 2:16), but permits it "because of your hardness of heart" (Matthew 19:8).
- Divorce is permitted primarily on grounds of sexual immorality or abandonment by an unbelieving spouse.
- Remarriage is permitted for the innocent party in these cases but is otherwise considered adultery.
- Divorce and remarriage are serious matters, and forgiveness and restoration are available through Christ for all involved.
This understanding balances the biblical ideal of lifelong marriage with the reality of human sin and brokenness, offering mercy to those who have been wronged in marriage while upholding the sanctity of the marriage covenant
