Marriage is a covenant established by God, designed to be a lifelong union between husband and wife. The question of divorce and remarriage is not new—it was addressed by the prophets and by Jesus Himself. Let us consider what Scripture teaches.
Jeremiah 3:1
“If a man divorces his wife and she goes from him and becomes another man’s, may he return to her again? Would not that land be greatly polluted?”
- Jeremiah uses divorce as a metaphor for Israel’s unfaithfulness.
- The principle shows that breaking covenant bonds leads to defilement and spiritual pollution.
- It sets the tone that divorce is not a casual matter but one with deep consequences.
Matthew 19:9
“And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery.”
- Jesus provides one clear exception: sexual immorality.
- If a man divorces his wife without this cause and remarries, he commits adultery.
- This teaching emphasizes the sanctity of marriage as a covenant not to be broken lightly.
Mark 10:11
“Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her.”
- Mark presents the teaching without exceptions.
- Divorce followed by remarriage is considered adultery against the first wife.
- It underscores the seriousness of breaking the marital bond.
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 expands the warning to both sides: the man who divorces and remarries, and the one who marries a divorced woman.
- Adultery is not only personal but relational, affecting all involved.
- The sanctity of marriage is upheld as a covenant before God.
Conclusion
From these scriptures, the teaching is consistent: a man is not permitted to divorce his wife and marry another unless the wife has been found guilty of adultery. Outside of this exception, remarriage after divorce is considered adultery.
Marriage is a sacred covenant designed by God, and its sanctity must be honored. Jesus’ words remind us that marriage is not merely a human contract but a divine institution, meant to reflect God’s faithfulness to His people.
✍️ Written by Priest Hurban Abrison
Bride of the Lamb Ministries International
