Divorce and remarriage for Christians: what does the Bible say?

Divorce and remarriage for Christians is a much debated issue. Explore biblical perspectives, real-life insights and God’s grace in brokenness.

The issue of divorce and remarriage for Christians is one of the most debated topics within the Church. Many believers struggle with questions surrounding biblical teaching, grace, and real-life circumstances. While the Bible is clear about God’s desire for lifelong marriage, it also addresses brokenness and the reality of human sin. Within our Christians Living in the UK Facebook group, members recently engaged in a heartfelt and, at times, impassioned discussion on this sensitive issue.

God hates divorce, but what about remarriage?

In Malachi 2:16, we read, “For I hate divorce, says the Lord, the God of Israel.” This verse forms a cornerstone for many who argue that divorce should be avoided at all costs. Ann, a member of the group, firmly believes that marriage is a lifelong covenant: “The marriage covenant is until death. Only death ends the covenant. Divorce and remarriage is adultery.”

Others, however, emphasised that God’s hatred of divorce does not mean He ignores the pain of abusive or broken marriages. Lucy commented: “True, God hates divorce, but He hates abusive marriages too.”

Billie offered a heartfelt reminder of humility and grace, urging caution in making blanket statements: “What a judgemental and condemnatory post and before you comment, I am not unaware that God will judge nor am I naive, but like most, I am simply walking with Jesus and learning each day with ‘fear and trembling’. It is only God who knows individual hearts and circumstances of those re-married. To forget that and generalise for everyone is dangerous ground indeed.”

This is a sobering reminder that, while Biblical principles are clear, the complexities of human situations are best understood by God Himself.

When is remarriage allowed for Christians?

The New Testament records Jesus’ teaching on divorce in Matthew 19:9: “Whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery.”

Here, Jesus appears to permit divorce and remarriage in cases of infidelity. Jenni weighed in on this, highlighting that remarriage is permissible when divorce occurs for biblical reasons: “If the person they’re divorced with is outside the faith, or under church discipline having abused their spouse, they are free to remarry.”

On the other hand, Ann and others referenced 1 Corinthians 7:10-11, where Paul instructs that a separated wife should remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. This remains a firm position for some Christians who believe remarriage is never biblically justified.

However, Sophia reminded the group that “Keeping the law doesn’t save us. Repentance is the key word.” Her comment highlights the importance of grace and forgiveness for those wrestling with this issue.

Grace, forgiveness and the role of individual circumstances

Many group members encouraged grace and understanding when discussing divorce and remarriage for Christians. Agnes shared a poignant reminder of God’s forgiveness: “People have come out of an abusive marriage, remarried in Christ with God’s blessing, and gone on to serve Christ with the rest of their lives. God is a forgiving God – why should a broken marriage suddenly become the unforgivable sin?”

Similarly, Norma highlighted Jesus’ interaction with the woman at the well in John 4: “She had been married five times, yet Jesus treated her with compassion. A whole village came to faith through her testimony.”

The conversation reached a thoughtful conclusion as we encouraged members to use this discussion constructively: “This post gives people an opportunity to provide a wise defence of what they believe in terms of God’s grace, forgiveness and ability to give people second chances.”

Divorce and remarriage for Christians – A call for love, not judgement

Divorce and remarriage for Christians should never be treated lightly. Marriage is a sacred covenant that reflects Christ’s love for the Church (Ephesians 5:25-32). Yet the reality of life in a fallen world means some marriages will end in divorce. As believers, our response should reflect both truth and grace.

As we commented in the discussion, while the Bible upholds the permanence of marriage, it also reveals God’s heart of mercy. We must approach divorce and remarriage with compassion, seeking wisdom in Scripture while recognising that only God fully understands each person’s circumstances. Instead of judgment, let’s offer love prayer and support to those navigating this challenging issue.

Divorce is a sin and like all sin it can be forgiven. God is the God of second chances. However divorce is not the best plan for any family. It would be better to be reconciled. Remarriage can be part of God’s plan of restoration.

Also read: Domestic Abuse in the UK – Can more be done?

UK Christian

FAITH • HOPE • LOVE. We aim to bring a fresh mix of inspirational reports, articles, stories and testimonies to encourage Christians across the UK and beyond.

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