Marriage and divorce are two of the most profound topics addressed in the Bible, offering guidance and principles that have shaped Christian understanding and practice for centuries. While the scriptures emphasize the sanctity and permanence of marriage, they also provide insights into the circumstances and attitudes surrounding divorce. In this second part of our exploration, we will delve deeper into biblical teachings, examining Jesus' teachings, Paul's letters, and relevant biblical principles that shed light on what the Bible says about marriage and divorce. Understanding these biblical perspectives can help believers navigate their relationships with faith, grace, and wisdom.
What Does the Bible Say About Marriage and Divorce Part 2
In the first part of this series, we explored the foundational biblical view of marriage as a divine institution established by God, emphasizing its sacredness and lifelong commitment. We also looked at Old Testament laws and the general attitude towards divorce. In this continuation, we will focus on Jesus' teachings, Paul's instructions, and the overarching biblical principles that inform Christian understanding of marriage and divorce today.
Jesus’ Teachings on Marriage and Divorce
Jesus’ words in the New Testament serve as some of the most direct and authoritative teachings on marriage and divorce. His teachings emphasize the original divine intent for marriage, the seriousness of the union, and the conditions under which divorce might be permissible.
Matthew 19:3-9
In this passage, Jesus is approached by Pharisees who question Him about the legality of divorce for any reason. Jesus responds by referencing the creation account:
- "Have you not read that He who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’?"
- "So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate."
Jesus underscores the divine origin and permanence of marriage, highlighting that marriage is a sacred union created by God. When questioned about divorce, Jesus emphasizes that it was permitted in Moses’ law because of human hardness of heart, but it was not part of God's original design.
Exceptions and Restrictions
In Matthew 19:9, Jesus states:
- "And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery."
This indicates that sexual immorality (porneia) is the only biblical grounds for divorce, and remarriage after divorce for other reasons is considered adultery. Jesus’ teaching emphasizes the seriousness of marriage and the importance of faithfulness.
Mark 10:2-12 and Luke 16:18
Other gospel accounts echo Jesus’ views. Mark and Luke reinforce the idea that divorce was permitted under certain conditions but was never part of God's original plan. Jesus’ consistent message is that marriage is a lifelong commitment, and divorce should only be considered under exceptional circumstances, primarily sexual unfaithfulness.
Paul’s Teachings on Marriage and Divorce
The Apostle Paul offers additional perspectives on marriage, divorce, and remarriage, emphasizing mutual respect, spiritual growth, and practical wisdom for Christian living.
1 Corinthians 7
Paul addresses various issues related to marriage, including remarriage and separation:
- "To the married I give this charge (not I, but the Lord): the wife should not separate from her husband." (1 Corinthians 7:10)
- "But if she does separate, let her remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband should not divorce his wife." (1 Corinthians 7:11)
Paul advocates for the stability of marriage but recognizes that separation may occur. His advice encourages reconciliation but allows for separation in certain circumstances.
Remarriage and Unbelievers
Paul also discusses remarriage, especially in situations involving believers and unbelievers:
- "To the rest I say (I, not the Lord): If any brother has a wife who is an unbeliever, and she consents to live with him, he should not divorce her." (1 Corinthians 7:12-13)
- "If an unbelieving partner separates, let it be so. In such cases, the brother or sister is not enslaved." (1 Corinthians 7:15)
This indicates that believers are encouraged to remain committed to their spouses, even if they are unbelievers, but if separation occurs, the believer is not bound to remain in an impossible or harmful situation.
Biblical Principles on Marriage and Divorce
Beyond specific passages, several overarching principles emerge from Scripture regarding marriage and divorce:
- Marriage as a Covenant: Marriage is a sacred covenant between a man, a woman, and God (Malachi 2:14). It is meant to be a lifelong commitment rooted in divine design.
- Faithfulness and Loyalty: The Bible consistently emphasizes faithfulness, love, and loyalty in marriage (Ephesians 5:25-33; Colossians 3:14).
- Sanctity and Permanence: Jesus’ teachings highlight that divorce is a concession, not the divine ideal, and that marriage should be preserved whenever possible.
- Grace and Mercy: The Bible acknowledges human weakness and provides grace for those who have experienced broken marriages, encouraging forgiveness, reconciliation, and healing.
- Protection of the Vulnerable: Laws in Scripture aim to protect vulnerable parties, especially women, from unjust treatment in divorce proceedings (Deuteronomy 24:1-4).
Reflections and Relevant Bible Verses
As believers reflect on biblical teachings about marriage and divorce, several key verses offer comfort, guidance, and insight:
- Genesis 2:24: "Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh." — Emphasizing the divine origin and unity of marriage.
- Matthew 5:32: "But I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of sexual immorality, makes her commit adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery." — Reinforcing the seriousness of divorce and remarriage.
- Romans 7:2-3: "For a married woman is bound by law to her husband while he lives, but if her husband dies she is free from the law of marriage." — Highlighting the permanence of marriage and the exception of death.
- 1 Corinthians 13:4-7: "Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way..." — A reminder that love should underpin all marital relationships.
- Malachi 2:16: "For the Lord, the God of Israel, says that he hates divorce." — Underlining God's view of divorce as contrary to His desire for His people.
Conclusion: Embracing Biblical Wisdom in Marriage and Divorce
Understanding what the Bible says about marriage and divorce requires careful consideration of scripture as a whole. The biblical view consistently highlights the sacredness, permanence, and faithfulness of marriage, emphasizing that it is a divine covenant intended to reflect God's love and faithfulness to His people. While Jesus and Paul acknowledge that human brokenness and circumstances may lead to divorce, they also stress reconciliation, grace, and the importance of honoring marriage vows whenever possible.
For believers today, applying biblical principles involves seeking God's guidance, maintaining love and respect within marriage, and approaching divorce with humility and compassion. When faced with difficult situations, turning to scripture for wisdom and to the community of faith for support can help navigate complex emotional and spiritual challenges. Ultimately, God's desire is for His children to experience His grace, forgiveness, and restoration in every area of their lives, including marriage.
