What is the Bible's stance on divorce and remarriage?

I. Foundational Scriptural Principles

The biblical stance on divorce and remarriage begins with the foundational idea that marriage was instituted as a lifelong covenant. In Genesis 2:24, the text reveals that a man and woman “become one flesh,” indicating a union that is both sacred and intentional. This covenant theme surfaces throughout Scripture, underscoring the significance God places on the marital relationship.

Malachi 2:14–16 shows a strong admonition against divorce, employing the phrase “the LORD, the God of Israel, says that He hates divorce.” This language highlights how divorce was never part of the ideal plan for marital unions. In addition, Matthew 19:6 records the words of Jesus, “So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.” This uniting language reiterates the Creator’s design for a husband and wife to remain together.

II. Mosaic Law and Concessions

Under the Mosaic law, Deuteronomy 24:1–4 lays out regulations for certain divorce circumstances. The context of these instructions was to regulate and minimize potential harm, especially when a husband might quickly abandon his wife. These provisions, however, were never meant to encourage or endorse divorce. Jesus clarifies this in Matthew 19:8 by explaining that Moses permitted divorce “because of your hardness of heart,” indicating that it was a legal concession to limit injustice in a fallen world.

III. Christ’s Teaching on Divorce

In the New Testament, Jesus addresses divorce in the Sermon on the Mount:

“‘It has also been said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’ But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, brings adultery upon her; and he who marries a divorced woman commits adultery’” (Matthew 5:31–32).

The phrase “except for sexual immorality” (Greek: porneia) is widely understood to refer to acts of adultery or other forms of severe sexual betrayal. Jesus upholds the design of marriage as a lifelong covenant but acknowledges an allowance for divorce in situations involving sexual immorality. This teaching is reiterated in Matthew 19:9, where again an exception is noted in cases involving sexual immorality.

IV. Paul’s Teaching in the Epistles

The Apostle Paul addresses marriage and divorce in 1 Corinthians 7:10–15. He reaffirms that couples should not divorce, echoing Christ’s teaching. However, verse 15 provides a unique exception involving an unbelieving spouse who chooses to leave a believer: “If the unbeliever leaves, let him go. The brother or the sister is not bound in such cases.” This indicates that if an unbelieving spouse abandons the marriage, the believing spouse is released from the marital bond according to biblical instruction.

V. Permissible Grounds for Divorce

Drawing from the combined teachings of Jesus and Paul, biblical interpreters commonly identify:

1. Sexual Immorality (Matthew 5:31–32; 19:9): A serious breach of marital faithfulness can be grounds for divorce.

2. Abandonment by an Unbelieving Spouse (1 Corinthians 7:15): When an unbelieving spouse deserts the marriage, the believer is not held captive to remain in a broken covenant.

These two categories emphasize that divorce, while never desirable, can be seen as permissible when the covenant is fundamentally violated.

VI. Biblical Perspective on Remarriage

When scripturally sanctioned divorce occurs, remarriage is generally viewed as allowable (Matthew 19:9). Jesus’ exception clause indicates that if divorce happens apart from biblically permissible reasons, remarriage may be viewed as adulterous (Mark 10:11–12). However, if the divorce was granted on legitimate grounds (sexual immorality, willful desertion of an unbelieving spouse) or if one’s spouse has died (Romans 7:2–3), then remarriage is within scriptural boundaries.

VII. Pastoral Care and Restoration

Even with these clear biblical guidelines, there is recognition that situations can be complex. Scripture regularly calls believers to seek repentance, reconciliation, and restoration wherever possible. Matthew 18:21–22 teaches forgiveness and encourages believers to show grace. Counseling and pastoral guidance are often vital steps before considering drastic measures like divorce. The overarching posture is to pursue relational healing under the leadership of the Holy Spirit.

VIII. Practical Support Within the Faith Community

Historically and in modern settings, the believing community is encouraged to uphold marriage and support struggling couples. Passages such as Galatians 6:2 teach believers to “carry one another’s burdens.” Local congregations often provide resources such as counseling, prayer support, and mentorship programs to help spouses resolve conflicts and remain faithful to their vows.

IX. Common Questions and Concerns

1. What if there has been hardship but not adultery or abandonment?

Scripture consistently encourages believers to persevere and seek reconciliation. Professional counseling, mentorship, and prayerful intervention within the church community can be effective responses.

2. What if one spouse is in an abusive relationship?

While physical safety must be preserved, there is also a biblical call to address the abuser’s wrongdoing. In some cases, separation for protection can be necessary. The biblical text affirms the dignity of each individual, and church leaders often advocate safety and healing over silently enduring active harm. Any divorce proceeding in these situations deserves careful pastoral and legal guidance.

3. Is remarriage allowed if a couple divorces unbiblically?

Repentance and rectifying past errors are important biblical principles. There is grace available for those who seek to align their lives with Scripture, yet the matter can be complex and is best approached with counsel from church leaders who can guide according to individual circumstances.

X. Conclusion

The biblical stance on divorce and remarriage is shaped by an overriding focus on the sanctity and permanence of the marriage covenant. Scripture teaches that divorce, though never part of the original plan, is sometimes permitted on grounds of sexual immorality or the abandonment of a believing spouse by an unbeliever. Within those boundaries, remarriage may be acceptable. The ultimate goal is always the healing and safeguarding of that which God established as holy.

In every scenario, believers are advised to seek wisdom, submit to trustworthy spiritual counsel, and aim for reconciliation and peace wherever possible. The Bible’s strong guidelines serve to uphold the sacred value of marriage and protect against the many harms that can occur when the covenant is set aside. Through prayerful obedience and communal support, couples are encouraged to experience the blessing of a flourishing, lifelong union.