Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionDivorce, the legal dissolution of a marriage, is a topic addressed in various parts of the Bible. The Scriptures provide guidance on the sanctity of marriage, the conditions under which divorce may be permissible, and the spiritual implications of ending a marital union. This entry explores the biblical perspective on divorce, drawing from both the Old and New Testaments. Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, marriage is portrayed as a covenantal relationship established by God. The book of Genesis describes the union of Adam and Eve as the foundational model for marriage: "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh" (Genesis 2:24). This union is intended to be lifelong and exclusive. The Mosaic Law addresses divorce in Deuteronomy 24:1-4, where it is permitted under certain circumstances: "If a man marries a woman but she becomes displeasing to him because he finds something indecent about her, he may write her a certificate of divorce, hand it to her, and send her away from his house" (Deuteronomy 24:1). This provision was intended to regulate divorce practices and protect the rights of the woman. Prophetic Writings The prophets often spoke against the casual treatment of marriage and divorce. Malachi 2:16 states, "For I hate divorce, says the LORD, the God of Israel, and I hate it when people clothe themselves with injustice, says the LORD Almighty" . This passage underscores God's disapproval of divorce and highlights the importance of faithfulness in marriage. New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, Jesus addresses the issue of divorce in the Gospels. In Matthew 19:3-9, the Pharisees question Jesus about the legality of divorce. Jesus responds by reaffirming the sanctity of marriage: "So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate" (Matthew 19:6). He acknowledges that Moses permitted divorce due to the hardness of human hearts but emphasizes that it was not intended from the beginning. Jesus further clarifies the conditions under which divorce is permissible: "I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery" (Matthew 19:9). This teaching highlights sexual immorality as a legitimate ground for divorce, emphasizing the seriousness of marital fidelity. The Apostle Paul also addresses divorce in his epistles. In 1 Corinthians 7:10-11, Paul advises married couples to remain together: "To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife" . Paul acknowledges that separation may occur but encourages reconciliation and the maintenance of the marital bond. Spiritual Implications Divorce is not merely a legal matter but has profound spiritual implications. The Bible portrays marriage as a reflection of the relationship between Christ and the Church (Ephesians 5:31-32). As such, the dissolution of a marriage can have significant spiritual consequences, affecting not only the individuals involved but also their relationship with God. Conclusion The biblical perspective on divorce emphasizes the sanctity and permanence of marriage while acknowledging human frailty and the reality of sin. The Scriptures provide guidance for maintaining marital fidelity and offer a framework for understanding the conditions under which divorce may be considered permissible. Topical Bible Verses Malachi 2:16For the LORD, the God of Israel, said that he hates putting away: for one covers violence with his garment, said the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that you deal not treacherously. Topicalbible.org Luke 16:18 Matthew 5:32 Matthew 19:9 1 Corinthians 7:11 Hebrews 13:4 Ephesians 5:22-33 Library The Tragic Break in the Plan. On the Journey to Jerusalem - Departure from Ephraim by Way of ... Whether the New Law Directed Man Sufficiently as Regards Interior ... Thou Shalt not Covet Thy Neighbor's House. Thou Shalt not Covet ... Chapter xiv. The People among whom we Labour. The Alleged Discrepancy in the Gospels in Regard to the Genealogy ... Prayer and Character and Conduct The Great Change The Beloved Pastor's Plea for Unity Resources Getting Married ' Article Index | GotQuestions.orgI am in the process of getting a divorce. Can I start dating, or do I have to wait until the divorce is final? | GotQuestions.org Should a couple be financially stable before getting married? | GotQuestions.org Getting: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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