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Jesus Christ challenged the liberal approach to divorce taken by some rabbis of his day, and upheld the idea of marriage as a lifelong commitment. Remarriage after divorce is generally classed as adultery and, where possible, divorced parties should seek reconciliation. There are circumstances, however, where remarriage is permissible.
Mt 19:3 See also Dt 21:14; Dt 24:1
God’s plan for marriage Mt 19:4-6 pp Mk 10:6-9 See also Ge 1:27; Ge 2:24; Mal 2:15; Eph 5:31
Divorce is permitted because of human sinfulness Mt 19:8 pp Mk 10:5
Christians should not seek divorce 1Co 7:10 This command, echoing Jesus Christ’s words, applies where both parties are believers. See also 1Co 7:12-14
Believers should seek reconciliation 1Co 7:11 See also Dt 24:2-4 Marriage to another after divorce prevents reconciliation.
Remarriage after divorce is classed as adultery Lk 16:18 pp Mk 10:11-12 This is a general rule, though there may be exceptions (see below). See also Ro 7:2-3; 1Co 7:39
Remarriage may be permissible 1Co 7:27-28 “unmarried” means literally “freed from a wife” and thus may be applied to those widowed or properly divorced. It is no sin for them to (re)marry.
Possible grounds for divorce and remarriage Mt 19:9; 1Co 7:15 See also Jer 3:8 God divorced Israel because of her adultery; Mt 1:18-19; Mt 5:32
6242 | adultery |
6658 | freedom |
6718 | reconciliation, believers |