Biblical Answer

The Biblical Prohibition Against Adultery as the Ground for Divorce

The biblical prohibition against adultery is a central theme in the discussion about the grounds for divorce. Jesus explicitly states in Matthew 5:31-32 that divorce is only permissible on the grounds of unchastity (or unfaithfulness). This teaching is also reflected in Matthew 19:3-9, where Jesus forbids divorce except on the ground of unchastity. The biblical prohibition against adultery is not only a moral principle but also a protective measure that preserves the integrity of the couple and promotes the well-being of all in the family. Fidelity in marriage is essential to maintaining the exclusivity of the marital relationship.

The Importance of Exclusivity in Marriage

The biblical prohibition against adultery is closely tied to the concept of exclusivity in marriage. When a marriage is entered into, the couple commits to a lifelong covenant of fidelity and exclusivity. Divorce destroys this exclusivity by moving from one relationship to another. The Bible teaches that sex is a sacred gift that should be reserved for marriage and that marriage is the only institution where sex is permissible. The violation of this exclusivity through adultery is a serious offense that can have devastating consequences for all parties involved.

The Implications of Expanding the Grounds for Divorce

The question remains whether other grounds, such as abandonment or hardness of heart, are also valid reasons for divorce. While some argue that these grounds are included in the biblical prohibition against adultery, others believe that they are complementary examples of a marital breakdown that can lead to divorce. The debate surrounding this issue is complex, and different evangelical scholars have different opinions on the matter. However, the biblical prohibition against adultery remains a central theme in the discussion about the grounds for divorce, and it is essential to understand the importance of exclusivity in marriage in order to approach this issue with a biblical perspective.