What Does the Bible Say About Divorce and Remarriage?

Written By Mary Carter

Mary is a devoted Bible student who loves sharing her knowledge, inspiring others with faith-filled insights, and deepening spiritual understanding through writing.

Marriage is one of the most sacred relationships in the Bible.

It was designed by God as a lifelong union between a man and a woman, built on love, trust, and commitment.

But what happens when a marriage falls apart?

What if the pain is too deep, the betrayal too great, or the love has completely faded?

Many people wonder what the Bible says about divorce and remarriage.

Is divorce ever allowed?

Does God still bless a second marriage?

These are tough questions, and the Bible provides clear but sometimes challenging answers.

By looking at Scripture, we can understand God’s view of marriage, the reasons for divorce, and the possibility of remarriage in a way that aligns with His will.

God’s Original Design for Marriage

Before discussing divorce, it’s important to understand what God intended for marriage.

In Genesis 2:24, the Bible states, “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.”

This verse shows that marriage is meant to be a deep, unbreakable bond.

Jesus later confirmed this truth when He said, “So they are no longer two, but one flesh.

Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate” (Matthew 19:6).

God’s design for marriage is lifelong commitment.

He desires for husbands and wives to love, support, and remain faithful to each other.

In Malachi 2:16, God declares, “I hate divorce.”

This strong statement shows that divorce is not His desire for His people.

However, because of human brokenness, divorce became a reality.

While God does not encourage it, He does provide guidelines for when it is allowed.

When Does the Bible Allow Divorce?

Though God hates divorce, there are specific situations where Scripture permits it.

One clear reason is adultery.

Jesus said in Matthew 5:32, “But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, makes her the victim of adultery, and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.”

Adultery breaks the covenant of marriage, damaging the trust and unity between husband and wife.

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While reconciliation is always encouraged, Jesus acknowledged that in some cases, divorce may be the only option.

Another biblical reason for divorce is abandonment by an unbelieving spouse.

In 1 Corinthians 7:15, Paul writes, “But if the unbeliever leaves, let it be so.

The brother or sister is not bound in such circumstances; God has called us to live in peace.”

If a spouse walks away and refuses to continue the marriage, the Bible allows the believer to move forward in peace.

Though these are the two main biblical reasons for divorce, some believe that serious abuse, extreme harm, or life-threatening situations also justify separation.

While the Bible does not specifically mention abuse as a reason for divorce, it does teach that God cares deeply for the safety and well-being of His children.

No one should stay in a dangerous situation.

Seeking safety and protection is always the right choice.

The Pain of Divorce

Divorce is never easy.

Even when it is necessary, it brings deep emotional and spiritual wounds.

It affects not only the couple but also children, families, and communities.

Many who go through divorce feel guilt, shame, or failure.

But the Bible offers hope and healing for those who have experienced the pain of a broken marriage.

Psalm 34:18 gives comfort: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

God does not abandon those who go through divorce.

He sees their pain and offers comfort, restoration, and a new beginning.

For those struggling with guilt, Romans 8:1 reminds us, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

Divorce is not the unforgivable sin.

God’s grace covers all sins, and He offers love and healing to those who seek Him.

What About Remarriage?

One of the most debated topics is whether remarriage is allowed after divorce.

The Bible provides guidance, but different interpretations exist among Christians.

Jesus’ words in Matthew 19:9 suggest that remarriage is only permitted if the divorce was due to adultery.

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Otherwise, remarriage would be considered adultery.

However, Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 7:15 indicate that if an unbelieving spouse abandons the marriage, the believer is “not bound,” meaning they are free to remarry.

This implies that in certain cases, remarriage is allowed.

Some believe that remarriage is always wrong after divorce, while others believe that God’s grace allows for second chances.

What is most important is seeking God’s wisdom, praying for His guidance, and making decisions that align with His will.

For those who have already remarried after a divorce, it is important to trust in God’s grace.

He is a God of redemption, and He blesses those who turn to Him with sincere hearts.

Healing After Divorce

Divorce is painful, but God offers healing and hope.

Isaiah 41:10 provides comfort: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

No matter what has happened, God is always near.

Healing takes time, and it often involves seeking wise counsel, spending time in prayer, and surrounding oneself with supportive believers.

Forgiveness is also a key part of healing.

Whether someone was betrayed, abandoned, or mistreated, holding onto bitterness will only cause more pain.

Ephesians 4:31-32 instructs, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Forgiveness does not mean excusing the wrong but releasing it to God and allowing Him to bring peace.

How the Church Should Respond to Divorce and Remarriage

Sadly, many churches have responded to divorce with judgment rather than compassion.

While it is important to uphold biblical truth, it is equally important to show grace and love.

Galatians 6:2 reminds believers, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

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The church should be a place of healing, not condemnation.

Those who have gone through divorce need support, encouragement, and a reminder of God’s love.

Jesus welcomed the broken, offering them new life.

The church should do the same.

Instead of pushing divorced individuals away, the body of Christ should help them rebuild, restore, and find strength in God.

Trusting God for the Future

Divorce is not the end of the story.

God can take what is broken and create something beautiful.

Jeremiah 29:11 assures, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Even after a failed marriage, God still has a purpose for every life.

For those who remain single after divorce, God provides fulfillment and joy.

For those who remarry, He blesses relationships built on His foundation.

No matter what the future holds, God’s love remains constant.

Final Thoughts

The Bible teaches that marriage is sacred and meant to last a lifetime.

However, because of sin and brokenness, divorce sometimes happens.

Though God hates divorce, He allows it in cases of adultery and abandonment.

Remarriage is permitted in certain circumstances, but each situation requires prayer and wisdom.

For those who have experienced divorce, God offers healing, grace, and hope.

The church should respond with love, compassion, and support rather than judgment.

Ultimately, God’s desire is for every person to walk in His will, experience His love, and trust Him with their future.

No mistake is too great for His mercy, and no heart is too broken for His healing.

With God, there is always a new beginning.