What Does the Bible Say About Remarrying After Divorce?

Written By Mary Carter

Mary holds a degree in theology and she has a deep understanding of biblical texts. She works as an elementary school teacher in Alabama.

The Bible offers various perspectives on remarrying after divorce. Jesus teaches that remarriage can equate to committing adultery, especially if the divorce was not due to sexual immorality. However, other parts of the New Testament suggest that remarriage is allowed under certain circumstances. It’s a complex topic with diverse opinions within the Christian community.

Curious to know more? Stick around! We’re diving deep into what the Bible really says about this topic. And trust me, it’s worth the read!

What Does the Bible Say About Remarrying After Divorce?

When it comes to remarrying after divorce, the Bible isn’t super straightforward. In fact, it’s kind of a mixed bag. Jesus had some pretty strong words on the topic. He said that anyone who divorces their spouse and marries someone else commits adultery, unless the divorce was because of sexual immorality. That’s in Matthew 19:9, by the way.

But wait, there’s more! The Apostle Paul also chimed in on the subject in 1 Corinthians 7. He advised people to stay as they are, whether married or divorced. But he also recognized that life happens, and sometimes staying single just isn’t possible for everyone.

So, what’s the deal? Is remarrying after divorce a sin or not? Well, it seems like it really depends on the circumstances and your personal beliefs. Some Christians believe that remarriage is only allowed if the divorce was due to infidelity. Others think that there are more situations where it’s acceptable.

God’s view on this is all about love, forgiveness, and redemption. It’s important to seek His guidance and wisdom when navigating through these complex situations. After all, every marriage and every divorce is unique.

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Bible Verses About Remarrying After Divorce

Let’s take a look at some specific Bible verses that talk about remarrying after divorce:

  1. Matthew 19:9: “I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.”
  1. 1 Corinthians 7:10-11: “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.”
  1. 1 Corinthians 7:15: “But if the unbeliever leaves, let it be so. The brother or the sister is not bound in such circumstances; God has called us to live in peace.”
  1. Romans 7:2-3: “For example, by law a married woman is bound to her husband as long as he is alive, but if her husband dies, she is released from the law that binds her to him. So then, if she has sexual relations with another man while her husband is still alive, she is called an adulteress. But if her husband dies, she is released from that law and is not an adulteress if she marries another man.”
  1. 1 Timothy 5:14: “So I counsel younger widows to marry, to have children, to manage their homes and to give the enemy no opportunity for slander.”

Okay, we’ve looked at five verses so far. Each one sheds a different light on the topic. Let’s keep going and explore some more.

Wrapping it all up, remarrying after divorce is a nuanced topic in the Bible. Jesus and Paul offer guidance, highlighting the sanctity of marriage and urging caution and discernment in matters of divorce and remarriage.

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Jesus emphasizes the gravity of divorce, associating remarriage with adultery, except in cases of sexual immorality. Paul, on the other hand, acknowledges the complexities of life, allowing for remarriage in certain circumstances, such as abandonment or the death of a spouse.

What ties these teachings together is a call to reflection, forgiveness, and seeking God’s wisdom. The Bible encourages us to uphold the sacred bond of marriage, to work towards reconciliation when possible, and to approach divorce and remarriage with a thoughtful and prayerful heart.

In the end, it’s clear that God’s love and grace are abundant. No matter the circumstances, His desire is for us to live in peace, love, and righteousness. So, whether you find yourself considering remarriage or advising someone else, remember to seek God’s guidance and trust in His unfailing love and wisdom.