This article explores the topic of divorce in the Bible and provides twelve powerful Bible verses about divorce.
The verses highlight Jesus’ teachings on divorce, the importance of marriage, and the consequences of failing to honor the marriage covenant.
Additionally, the article suggests three Bible chapters to read for those who want to learn more about divorce and related concepts such as the sanctity of marriage and the consequences of unfaithfulness.
Bible verses about divorce
Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about divorce:
1. Matthew 5:32 – “But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.”
2. Mark 10:9 – “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”
3. Malachi 2:16 – “For the Lord, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the Lord of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously.”
4. 1 Corinthians 7:10-11 – “And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife.”
5. Matthew 19:6 – “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”
6. Romans 7:2-3 – “For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband. So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man.”
7. “And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.” – Matthew 19:9
8. “And if a woman shall put away her husband, and be married to another, she committeth adultery.” – Mark 10:12
9. “For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband.” – Romans 7:2
10. “And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband.” – 1 Corinthians 7:10
11. “But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace.” – 1 Corinthians 7:15
12. “And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.” – Matthew 5:32
What does the Bible say about divorce?
The Bible acknowledges that divorce is a painful and difficult situation, but it does allow for it in certain circumstances.
Jesus teaches that divorce is only permissible in cases of adultery or sexual immorality.
The Bible also emphasizes the importance of marriage and encourages spouses to love and honor each other, to work through their problems, and to seek reconciliation if possible.
Additionally, the Bible warns against marrying someone who is not a believer and encourages Christians to prioritize their relationship with God above all else.
What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about divorce?
1. Matthew 19:1-12 – This chapter contains Jesus’ teachings on divorce, including the Pharisees’ questions about it and Jesus’ response that divorce should only be allowed in cases of adultery. This chapter is relevant to divorce because it provides insight into Jesus’ views on the subject and the importance of marriage.
2. 1 Corinthians 7 – This chapter contains Paul’s teachings on marriage and divorce, including his advice to those who are married and those who are considering divorce. This chapter is relevant to divorce because it provides guidance on how to handle difficult marital situations and the importance of maintaining the sanctity of marriage.
3. Malachi 2:13-16 – This chapter contains God’s rebuke of the Israelites for their unfaithfulness in marriage and their disregard for the sanctity of marriage. This chapter is relevant to divorce because it highlights the importance of honoring the marriage covenant and the consequences of failing to do so.
Ideas and concepts related to divorce that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.
1. Marriage: The Bible emphasizes the sanctity and permanence of marriage. It is viewed as a sacred covenant between a man and a woman, which should not be broken except for specific reasons. Divorce is seen as a violation of this covenant.
2. Adultery: Adultery is a sin in the Bible and is considered a valid reason for divorce. It is a violation of the marital covenant and can lead to the breakdown of trust and intimacy in a marriage.
3. Forgiveness: The Bible teaches forgiveness as a central tenet of Christian faith. Even in the case of divorce, forgiveness is encouraged, and couples are urged to reconcile if possible.
4. Love: Love is a central theme in the Bible, and it is emphasized that love should be the foundation of any marriage. Divorce is seen as a failure to love and honor one’s spouse.
5. Commitment: The Bible stresses the importance of commitment in marriage. Divorce is seen as a breach of this commitment and is discouraged except in specific circumstances.
6. Reconciliation: The Bible encourages reconciliation and restoration in relationships. Even in the case of divorce, couples are urged to seek reconciliation and forgiveness.
7. Covenant: Marriage is viewed as a covenant in the Bible, a sacred agreement between two people and God. Divorce is seen as a violation of this covenant and is discouraged except in specific circumstances.
8. Faithfulness: Faithfulness is a key aspect of marriage in the Bible. Divorce is seen as a result of unfaithfulness and is discouraged except in specific circumstances.
Overall, the Bible teaches that marriage is a sacred covenant that should not be broken except for specific reasons. Divorce is seen as a violation of this covenant and is discouraged except in cases of adultery or other specific circumstances. The Bible emphasizes forgiveness, love, commitment, and reconciliation as important aspects of marriage and encourages couples to seek these qualities in their relationships.
