Biblical Answer

Divorce and Remarriage: A Biblical Perspective

The Bible teaches that divorce is not always prohibited, but remarriage after divorce is a complex issue. Jesus' teaching on divorce and remarriage is clear: divorce is forbidden, and remarriage after divorce is not allowed (Matthew 19:3-12). However, Paul affirms the main point of Jesus' teaching, but also addresses the situation of believers married to unbelievers (1 Corinthians 7:10-11, 15-16). Paul teaches that a Christian may accept divorce initiated by an unbelieving spouse, but this does not mean that the Christian is justified in initiating divorce themselves.

The Permissibility of Divorce

The question of whether a Christian can initiate divorce is a matter of debate among evangelicals. Some argue that God prohibits divorce in all cases, while others believe that divorce may be permissible in certain situations. However, Paul's teaching in 1 Corinthians 7:15 suggests that a Christian may accept divorce initiated by an unbelieving spouse, but this does not imply that the Christian is justified in initiating divorce themselves. The key issue is not whether a Christian may accept divorce initiated by an unbelieving spouse, but whether a Christian is ever justified in initiating divorce without becoming guilty of sin.

Remarriage After Divorce

The question of whether a Christian can remarry after a divorce is also complex. Some argue that remarriage is always prohibited after a divorce, while others believe that remarriage may be permissible in certain situations. However, Paul's teaching in 1 Corinthians 7:39 suggests that a Christian may remarry after the death of a spouse or after a divorce initiated by an unbelieving spouse. However, this does not necessarily mean that a Christian may remarry immediately after a divorce. The Bible teaches that marriage is a lifelong commitment, and remarriage should not be taken lightly. Ultimately, the decision to remarry should be made with careful consideration and prayer, and in accordance with biblical principles.