What Does the Bible Say About Divorce and Remarriage?

TL;DR

The Bible upholds marriage as a lifelong covenant, reflective of Christ and the Church.
Some theologians argue that divorce and subsequent remarriage are permissible in specific circumstances.
The permanence view of marriage argues for its indissolubility, with exceptions referring to betrothal periods, not marriage.
All perspectives call for grace, forgiveness, and reconciliation in marital struggles.

Biblical Perspective on Marriage

In the Christian faith, marriage is more than a legal contract; it is a sacred covenant reflecting the profound mystery of Christ’s unbreakable bond with His Church. The Genesis narrative (Genesis 2:18-24) establishes this foundational view of marriage, depicting it as a divine institution where a man and woman, created in God’s image, are united into one flesh. This concept is not merely about physical union but also encompasses emotional, spiritual, and covenantal dimensions.

Jesus Christ strongly reaffirmed this concept of marriage during His earthly ministry. In the Gospel of Matthew (19:4-6), He referenced the Genesis account to remind His audience of God’s original design for marriage. Christ’s teaching here is critical; He emphasized the sacredness and permanence of the marital bond, cautioning against casual dismissal of this divine union. Similarly, the Apostle Paul, in his letters to the Ephesians (5:22-33), draws a parallel between the marital relationship and Christ’s relationship with the Church. Paul’s analogy elevates marriage from a mere social arrangement to a living symbol of the gospel, a testament to sacrificial love, commitment, and unity.

Divorce in Biblical Context

The issue of divorce is addressed in various scriptures, with a general tone of discouragement but acknowledgment of its necessity in certain situations. Jesus’ words in Matthew 19:8-9 indicate that Moses permitted divorce due to the hardness of people’s hearts, but this was not God’s original intention. Jesus stipulates that sexual immorality is a justifiable ground for divorce, highlighting the seriousness of marital fidelity.

The Apostle Paul adds another dimension to this conversation in 1 Corinthians 7:10-16. He instructs married couples to stay together but acknowledges the complexities of life in a fallen world. Paul provides specific guidance for cases where a believing partner is married to an unbeliever, stating that if the unbelieving partner leaves, the believer is not bound in such circumstances. This teaching suggests an understanding of marriage as not only a moral covenant but also one deeply embedded in the practical realities of daily life.

The Permanence View of Marriage

The permanence view of marriage is a significant strand within Christian theology, emphasizing the indissoluble nature of the marriage bond. Proponents of this view often cite Jesus’ teachings on divorce and remarriage, arguing that the exceptions He mentions (e.g., in Matthew 5:32) could refer to betrothal violations rather than marital unfaithfulness. In Jewish culture, betrothal was a legally binding agreement, and sexual immorality during this period was a grave violation. Hence, this interpretation posits that Jesus was not providing grounds for divorce within marriage, but rather addressing unlawful sexual relations during betrothal.

This view also draws from passages like Malachi 2:16, where God expresses His dislike for divorce, and Luke 16:18, where Jesus speaks against remarriage after divorce. The permanence view upholds that marriage reflects the unbreakable covenant between Christ and the Church, thus emphasizing the importance of commitment, perseverance, and seeking reconciliation in marital relationships, despite challenges and struggles.

Scriptural Guidance for Remarriage

The topic of remarriage is complex and interpreted differently within Christian circles. Some theologians, considering the exceptions mentioned by Jesus and Paul, argue that remarriage is permissible after a divorce that occurs on biblical grounds. They reference passages like 1 Corinthians 7:27-28, where Paul seems to allow remarriage, especially for those who have been divorced according to the stipulated exceptions.

On the other hand, the permanence view advocates that remarriage is only biblically acceptable following the death of a spouse. This interpretation is grounded in the belief that marriage is a lifelong covenant, only dissolvable upon the death of one partner. Romans 7:2-3 and 1 Corinthians 7:39 are often cited in support of this position. This perspective underscores the sanctity and unbreakable nature of the marital bond, as ordained by God.

Conclusion

The Bible presents a high view of marriage, portraying it as a sacred and covenantal bond. While it allows for divorce in certain circumstances, it generally promotes reconciliation and forgiveness. The permanence view, emphasizing the indissoluble nature of marriage, suggests that exceptions noted in the Scripture might refer to betrothal rather than marriage.

“Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage in the Bible” by Jay E. Adams – This book provides a comprehensive biblical perspective on these topics, often cited by those with a Reformed background.
“Divorce and Remarriage: Four Christian Views” edited by H. Wayne House – This book explores different Christian perspectives on divorce and remarriage, offering insights from various theological viewpoints.