Is Divorce against God’s Law?

At present, more number of divorce cases visible in the doors of the court all over the world.

The number of people approaching for divorce has reached an impeccable height. It is vital to address the question of what does the Bible say about divorce? A clear understanding needed with regards to marriage as well as divorce.

Overview of Marriage:

Christians believe that God created marriage according to the purpose of God. At the heart of God’s design for marriage is companionship and intimacy. At the heart of God’s design for marriage is companionship and intimacy. Marriage is a God-given gift for humans.

Firstly, no matter what stand one takes regarding divorce, one thing to remember as the Scripture says in Malachi 2:16 “I hate divorce, says the LORD God of Israel.” With regards to the Bible, Marriage is a life-time covenant between a husband and wife.

When someone gets married, the Bible says they are no longer two bodies; they become one. And Scripture also warns us in Matthew 19:6 “let man not separate” as they are tied to each other soulfully under the covenant of marriage.

The Bible proposed marriage keeps Christ as the head of the relationship between husband and wife. The oneness in marriage depicts the oneness of Christ with His church.

Furthermore, the Bible shows us that marriage is a good thing, and it points us to something better: it points us to Christ. For fruitful wedlock, they both must be faithful, loyal and transparent to each other and before God.

When are Divorces Allowed?

In Old Testament, God gave some laws to protect the rights of divorcees, and Jesus made it clear that such laws are passed just because of the hardness of the people’s heart, and it was never the desire of God’s plan.

Jesus says this: “It was also said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.’ 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.” So it is clear that God doesn’t desire divorces. The only phrase “except for marital unfaithfulness” in the Scripture allows for God’s permission with regards to divorce.

The Greek word (original written language) translated “marital unfaithfulness” could mean any sexual activity. It could refer to adultery, sexual abuse, prostitution etc. Jesus highlights that divorces are acceptable only in case sexual immorality took place.

Even though sexual immorality has committed, divorce is not the only solution for it. Through the grace of God, one can use the weapon of forgiveness to rebuild the broken marriage life. God has forgiven us so many times for our sins and immorality life. Surely we can stick to His example and even forgive the sin of adultery (Ephesians 4:32).

Divorces are human-made; it never comes from the hands of God. So if you are heading towards divorce, don’t take immediate action. Just wait for God and try to forgive your partner. God can work on your broken marriage life and can build upon it. Trust Him in the process.