What does the Bible say about divorce and remarriage?
God’s Design for Marriage and Divorce: A Biblical Perspective
The Bible is clear that God’s design for marriage is for it to be a lifelong, covenantal union between one man and one woman. In Malachi 2:16, God declares, “For the Lord God of Israel says that He hates divorce, for it covers one’s garment with violence,” emphasizing His disdain for the breaking of this sacred bond. Marriage is not merely a contract but a divine covenant, as affirmed by Jesus in Matthew 19:6: “So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, let not man separate.”
At the same time, God, in His grace, acknowledges the reality of human sinfulness and makes provisions for divorce under specific circumstances. These allowances reflect God’s mercy and justice but never His ideal.
Marriage as a Covenant Reflecting God’s Faithfulness
Marriage is foundational to God’s creation and His relationship with humanity. From the beginning, God established marriage as a union between one man and one woman, describing this bond in Genesis 2:24: “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” This one-flesh union signifies not only physical intimacy but also emotional, spiritual, and covenantal unity.
The Biblical Grounds for Divorce and Remarriage
Sexual Immorality: The "Exception Clause"
Jesus addressed divorce directly in Matthew 5:32: “But I say to you that whoever divorces his wife for any reason except sexual immorality causes her to commit adultery; and whoever marries a woman who is divorced commits adultery.” Similarly, in Matthew 19:9, He stated: “And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced commits adultery.”
The Greek term translated as "sexual immorality" (porneia) encompasses a range of illicit sexual behaviors, including adultery, fornication, and other sexual sins. These passages suggest that marital unfaithfulness can break the covenant bond of marriage, allowing the innocent party the option to divorce and potentially remarry.
Abandonment by an Unbelieving Spouse
In 1 Corinthians 7:15, the Apostle Paul addresses another scenario: “But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart; a brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases. But God has called us to peace.” This passage allows for divorce when an unbelieving spouse abandons a believer. The phrase "not under bondage" suggests that the abandoned believer is free from the marital obligation and, by implication, free to remarry.
Abuse and Other Unaddressed Scenarios
While the Bible does not explicitly list abuse as grounds for divorce, cases of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse are a distortion of God’s intent for marriage. In such situations, immediate separation is necessary for the safety and well-being of the abused spouse and children. While divorce may be a valid option, it should be approached prayerfully and in consultation with godly counsel.
Divorce Is Allowed, Not Required
Even when the Bible permits divorce, it is never commanded. Reconciliation and forgiveness are always God’s highest goals. Ephesians 4:32 exhorts believers, “And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.” Similarly, Jesus taught in Luke 11:4: “And forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us.”
God's grace enables couples to overcome even the deepest betrayals. Many marriages that have suffered from infidelity or other severe challenges have been restored through God’s transforming power. However, when one spouse is unrepentant or continues in immorality, divorce may be the only recourse, as indicated in Matthew 19:9.
The Challenges of Remarriage After Divorce
The Bible’s teaching on remarriage is nuanced. In 1 Corinthians 7:10–11, Paul writes: “Now to the married I command, yet not I but the Lord: A wife is not to depart from her husband. But even if she does depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. And a husband is not to divorce his wife.” The general principle is that remarriage is not permissible unless the divorce meets biblical criteria.
Even when remarriage is biblically allowed, it should not be pursued hastily. God may call some divorced individuals to remain single, as Paul notes in 1 Corinthians 7:32–35: “But I want you to be without care. He who is unmarried cares for the things of the Lord—how he may please the Lord. But he who is married cares about the things of the world—how he may please his wife.”
God’s Grace for the Divorced and Remarried
Divorce, even when it occurs outside of biblical guidelines, is not the unforgivable sin. God’s grace covers all sins for those who repent and turn to Him. Romans 8:1 declares: “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit.” A divorced or remarried believer should not feel less loved or accepted by God. Instead, they should embrace the fullness of His grace and commit to living in obedience moving forward.
Conclusion: God’s Heart for Marriage and Redemption
God hates divorce because it violates His design for marriage and causes pain and brokenness. Yet, He is merciful and provides guidance for navigating the complexities of divorce and remarriage. As believers, we are called to uphold the sanctity of marriage, seek reconciliation when possible, and reflect God’s grace and forgiveness in all relationships.
For those who have experienced divorce or remarriage, the message of the gospel is clear: God’s love is unchanging, His grace is sufficient, and His redemptive power can bring healing and hope to any situation. Let us walk in obedience, honor God’s design for marriage, and trust in His provision and mercy for every stage of life.
