Wondering what the Bible has to say about second marriages? In a nutshell, the Bible offers guidance that is both nuanced and compassionate. It acknowledges the complexity of human relationships and the reality of sin, while also providing hope and redemption through Jesus. The New Testament, in particular, offers insights into God’s view on marriage, divorce, and remarriage, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness, forgiveness, and love. Second marriages, under certain conditions, are allowed, reflecting God’s grace and the possibility of new beginnings.
Curious about diving deeper into what the Bible teaches about second marriages? Keep reading to explore the intricacies of biblical teachings on love, commitment, and starting anew.
What Does the Bible Say About Second Marriages?
When it comes to second marriages, the Bible doesn’t provide a one-size-fits-all answer. Instead, it addresses the topic with depth and understanding, recognizing the realities of human experiences and the complexities of life after divorce.
In the Old Testament, laws regarding marriage and divorce were quite specific, focusing on the protection of individuals and the social order of the community. However, with the advent of the New Testament, Jesus brought a new perspective that emphasized the sanctity of marriage and the seriousness of divorce. He highlighted that marriage is a covenant before God, not to be taken lightly, but also spoke of God’s mercy and compassion for those who have suffered through a divorce.
The Apostle Paul, in his letters, further elaborates on the conditions under which remarriage is considered permissible. He recognizes that while marriage is ideally a lifelong commitment, there are circumstances, such as the death of a spouse or divorce due to marital unfaithfulness, where remarriage is allowed. Paul encourages believers to live in peace and to seek reconciliation when possible, but he also acknowledges the grace of new beginnings under certain conditions.
The Bible’s discussion on second marriages is ultimately rooted in the principles of love, forgiveness, and redemption. It affirms that while sin can break the bonds of marriage, God’s grace can bring healing and hope for the future. This perspective encourages individuals to approach second marriages with a sense of responsibility, humility, and a deep appreciation for the sanctity of the marital relationship.
God’s view on second marriages, as presented in the Bible, is not one of judgment but of understanding and grace. It recognizes the pain and loss that often precede a second marriage while also offering a path forward that honors the commitment to love and fidelity in a new marital union.
Bible Verses About Second Marriages
- Matthew 19:9 – “I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.” Jesus’ words highlight the seriousness of divorce and remarriage, allowing for exceptions under specific circumstances such as marital unfaithfulness.
- 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.” Paul acknowledges situations where divorce is unavoidable and suggests that believers are not bound to stay in such marriages, opening the door for remarriage under certain conditions.
- Romans 7:2-3 – “For a married woman is bound by law to her husband while he lives, but if her husband dies, she is released from the law of marriage. Accordingly, she will be called an adulteress if she lives with another man while her husband is alive. But if her husband dies, she is free from that law, and if she marries another man, she is not an adulteress.” This passage clarifies that remarriage is permissible after the death of a spouse, emphasizing the lifelong commitment intended for marriage but also acknowledging the reality of life changes.
- 1 Corinthians 7:39 – “A woman is bound to her husband as long as he lives. But if her husband dies, she is free to marry anyone she wishes, but he must belong to the Lord.” Paul extends the teaching on marriage and widowhood, allowing for remarriage with the stipulation that it be within the Christian faith.
- 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.” This advice from Paul to young widows suggests that remarriage is not only permitted but encouraged under certain circumstances to ensure stability and fulfillment in life.
- Matthew 5:32 – “But I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of sexual immorality, makes her commit adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.” Here, Jesus speaks to the gravity of divorce and its implications for remarriage, emphasizing the importance of the marital bond and the conditions under which divorce and subsequent remarriage may be considered permissible.
- Mark 10:11-12 – “He answered, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her. And if she divorces her husband and marries another man, she commits adultery.'” Similar to Matthew’s account, Mark reiterates Jesus’ teaching on divorce and remarriage, underscoring the commitment marriage entails and the seriousness with which it should be treated.
- Luke 16:18 – “Everyone who divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery, and he who marries a woman divorced from her husband commits adultery.” Luke’s version of Jesus’ teaching on divorce and remarriage echoes the same themes found in Matthew and Mark, highlighting the sanctity of the marriage covenant.
- 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.” Paul provides direct guidance regarding separation and divorce, emphasizing reconciliation or remaining unmarried as the preferred outcomes. This passage highlights the commitment to the marriage vow and the complexities of marital relationships.
- Ephesians 5:31-32 – “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. This is a profound mystery—but I am talking about Christ and the church.” While not directly about second marriages, this passage underlines the depth of the marital relationship, likening it to the union between Christ and the Church. It serves as a reminder of the spiritual significance of marriage, encouraging those entering into a second marriage to consider the sacredness of the covenant they are making. This perspective can help guide individuals in their approach to remarriage, aiming for a relationship that reflects God’s love and commitment.
These verses collectively reveal a biblical perspective that values the sanctity of marriage, acknowledges the complexities of human relationships, and extends grace to those navigating the painful realities of divorce and the possibility of remarriage. The Bible’s teachings on second marriages encourage believers to approach remarriage with a sense of responsibility, humility, and a commitment to uphold the values of love, fidelity, and respect that are central to the Christian understanding of marriage.