Biblical Answer

Understanding the Old Testament's Stance on Divorce

The Old Testament presents a complex and nuanced stance on divorce. On one hand, there are passages that explicitly forbid divorce in certain cases (Deut 22:13-21, 28-30). On the other hand, Moses and other biblical authors acknowledged that the ideal of a monogamous marriage was not always met, and thus made provision for divorce in specific circumstances. The allowance for divorce in the Old Testament is not a reflection of God's will, but rather a concession to human frailty and the hardness of the human heart (Matt 19:8-9).

God's View of Divorce

The Bible reveals that God hates divorce and views it as a form of violence (Mal 2:16). This is evident in the way the prophet Malachi expresses God's opposition to divorce. In contrast, the allowance for divorce in the Old Testament is seen as a mitigating factor, intended to limit the damage caused by sin. Jesus himself highlighted the distinction between what Moses commanded and what God's will truly is (Matt 19:3-9). By understanding this nuance, we can see that God's heart is not in favor of divorce, but rather in providing a way to navigate the complexities of human relationships in a fallen world.

The Significance of Jesus' Teaching

Jesus' teaching on divorce sheds light on God's stance on the issue. By pointing out that Moses did not command divorce, but rather allowed it as a concession to human frailty, Jesus underscored the distinction between what is commanded and what is permitted. This teaching is significant because it highlights the importance of understanding God's heart and will, rather than simply following rules and regulations. By recognizing the complexity of human relationships and the need for mercy and compassion, we can better understand why God allowed divorce in the Old Testament, and how Jesus' teaching continues to guide us in our understanding of marriage and divorce today.