Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, divorce is addressed with significant concern, particularly in the prophetic literature where the Israelites are often rebuked for their casual approach to marriage and divorce. The issue of divorce is not merely a legal or social matter but is deeply intertwined with the spiritual fidelity of God's people.Malachi's Rebuke The prophet Malachi provides a poignant critique of the Israelites' attitude towards marriage and divorce. In Malachi 2:13-16, the prophet condemns the people for their unfaithfulness, both to their spouses and to God. The passage highlights the treachery of dealing faithlessly with the wife of one's youth, emphasizing that God Himself is a witness to the marriage covenant. Malachi 2:16 states, "For I hate divorce, says the LORD, the God of Israel, and him who covers his garment with violence, says the LORD of Hosts. So guard yourselves in your spirit, and do not break faith." This passage underscores the seriousness with which God views the marriage covenant. The use of the term "violence" in relation to divorce suggests that it is not merely a personal or private matter but an act that disrupts the social and spiritual fabric of the community. The prophet's message is clear: divorce is not to be taken lightly, and the love of divorce is seen as a symptom of a deeper spiritual malaise. Historical Context In the historical context of ancient Israel, marriage was a covenantal relationship that mirrored the covenant between God and His people. The casual approach to divorce among the Israelites was indicative of a broader pattern of covenant unfaithfulness. The prophets frequently used the metaphor of marriage to describe the relationship between God and Israel, with Israel often depicted as an unfaithful spouse. The permissiveness towards divorce can be seen as part of a larger pattern of moral and spiritual decline. The Israelites' love of divorce was symptomatic of their failure to uphold the covenantal standards set forth by God. This failure was not only a personal issue but had communal implications, affecting the integrity and holiness of the nation as a whole. New Testament Perspective The New Testament continues this theme, with Jesus addressing the issue of divorce in the Gospels. In Matthew 19:3-9, Jesus is questioned by the Pharisees about the legality of divorce. He responds by pointing back to the creation narrative, emphasizing the original intent for marriage as a lifelong union. Jesus states in Matthew 19:6 , "So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate." Jesus' teaching reinforces the sanctity of marriage and the seriousness of divorce. He acknowledges the concession of divorce in the Mosaic Law due to the hardness of human hearts but calls His followers to a higher standard that reflects God's original design for marriage. Implications for Believers For believers, the biblical condemnation of the love of divorce serves as a call to uphold the sanctity of marriage. It challenges individuals and communities to reflect on their commitment to the marriage covenant and to seek reconciliation and faithfulness in their relationships. The biblical narrative presents marriage as a reflection of God's covenantal love, and divorce as a deviation from this divine ideal. Torrey's Topical Textbook Malachi 2:14-16Yet you say, Why? Because the LORD has been witness between you and the wife of your youth, against whom you have dealt treacherously: yet is she your companion, and the wife of your covenant. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Fulfilling of the Law in the Higher Sense. --Particular Examples ... Book 15 Footnotes Index of Subjects. The Sermon on the Mount. A New Age and New Standards How Herod Slew Sohemus and Mariamne and Afterward Alexandra and ... Christianity in Rome. Whether the New Law Fulfils the Old? Doctrinal and Moral Treatises. Index of Subjects. John Chapter ii. 11-Jan Resources I am in the process of getting a divorce. Can I start dating, or do I have to wait until the divorce is final? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are biblical grounds for divorce? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about divorce and remarriage? | GotQuestions.org Divorce: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Divorce of Captives, Regulated by Law Divorce of Servants, Regulated by Law Divorce: Disobedience of the Wife to the Husband, a Sufficient Cause For, in the Persian Empire Divorce: Forbidden by Christ Except for Adultery Divorce: Forced on Those Who had Idolatrous Wives Divorce: General Scriptures Concerning Divorce: Illustrative of God's Casting off of the Jewish Church Divorce: Jews Condemned for Love of Divorce: Law of Marriage Against Divorce: Not Allowed to Those Who Falsely Accused Their Wives Divorce: Often Sought by the Jews Divorce: Permitted by the Mosaic Law Divorce: Permitted: On Account of Hardness of Heart Divorce: Priests not to Marry Women After Divorce: Prohibition of, offended the Jews Divorce: Sought on Slight Grounds Divorce: Women: Could Marry After Divorce: Women: Married After, Could not Return to First Husband Divorce: Women: Responsible for Vows After Related Terms Transgressions (64 Occurrences) |
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