DIVORCE
What Is Divorce in the Bible?
Divorce may be defined as the legal dissolution of a marriage covenant.
Under the Mosaic regime, divorce could be obtained for a variety of reasons (Dt. 24:1; Mt. 19:8). But this looseness was merely tolerated; it was not the divine ideal. Under the Christian system, the strictness of the marital union was restored to its original design (Mt. 19:8b).
Divorce is authorized for one cause only -- that of fornication (sexual intercourse) by a marital partner against their spouse, who is an innocent victim (Mt. 5:32; 19:9). Mark 10:12 provides the woman with the same right as the man.
There may be occasions when Christian companions may need to separate for safety's sake (cf. 1 Cor. 7:11), but divorce is restricted to the ordinance of Christ. Mere abandonment by a thoughtless spouse does not constitute grounds for divorce or remarriage (1 Cor. 7:15).
Under the Mosaic regime, divorce could be obtained for a variety of reasons (Dt. 24:1; Mt. 19:8). But this looseness was merely tolerated; it was not the divine ideal. Under the Christian system, the strictness of the marital union was restored to its original design (Mt. 19:8b).
Divorce is authorized for one cause only -- that of fornication (sexual intercourse) by a marital partner against their spouse, who is an innocent victim (Mt. 5:32; 19:9). Mark 10:12 provides the woman with the same right as the man.
There may be occasions when Christian companions may need to separate for safety's sake (cf. 1 Cor. 7:11), but divorce is restricted to the ordinance of Christ. Mere abandonment by a thoughtless spouse does not constitute grounds for divorce or remarriage (1 Cor. 7:15).
Related Articles
Is Lust Fornication?
If someone lusts have they committed adultery?
Marriage: As Designed by GodWhat is the origin and design of marriage?
Some Questions about Divorce and RemarriageOccasionally we receive questions on the topic of divorce and remarriage. We cannot give unequivocal answers regarding cases wherein we cannot possibly know all the facts. However, we can deal with certain principles.
What Is Adultery?Several years ago, it would hardly have been necessary to discuss the meaning of “adultery.” Now many believe that adultery is merely the act of repudiating one’s marriage vows, rather than unauthorized sexual conduct involving one who is married.
Foundational Truths Regarding MarriageIs “marriage” a divinely designed institution, or is it a human invention? Let us see where the evidence lies.
Adapted from the book "Bible Words and Theological Terms Made Easy" by Wayne Jackson
