Today we will talk about Bible verses about marriage, divorce, and remarriage. This can be a sensitive topic for many people, as marriage is a sacred union that reflects God’s love for us. At times, we might face challenges that could lead to divorce, which can be heart-wrenching. Understanding what the Bible says about marriage, divorce, and remarriage is essential for us as we navigate our relationships. Let’s dive into God’s word together and seek wisdom and encouragement on how to manage these aspects of our lives in a way that honors Him.
Bible Verses About Marriage Divorce and Remarriage
God’s Design for Marriage
In the Bible, we see that marriage is more than just a legal contract; it’s a divine covenant that God established for a partnership between a man and a woman. This foundational understanding can transform our perspective on relationships. God designed marriage to reflect His love, grace, and commitment. It’s important for us to recognize this design and strive to fulfill our roles within it, with love and respect for one another.
Genesis 2:24
“Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. – Genesis 2:24
Ephesians 5:31
“For this reason, a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. – Ephesians 5:31
Matthew 19:6
“So they are no longer two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.” – Matthew 19:6
Hebrews 13:4
“Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.” – Hebrews 13:4
Malachi 2:14
“But you say, ‘Why does He not?’ Because the Lord was witness between you and the wife of your youth, to whom you have been faithless, though she is your companion and your wife by covenant.” – Malachi 2:14
Understanding Divorce
Divorce is a difficult topic that many of us encounter in our lives or through friends and family. The Bible acknowledges the reality of divorce while also emphasizing God’s desire for reconciliation and healing. When relationships break down, it’s important for us to understand how to seek healing, forgiveness, and restoration, according to God’s principles. By looking at what Scripture says, we can better navigate this painful experience.
Matthew 19:9
“And I say to you: whoever divorces his wife except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery.” – Matthew 19:9
1 Corinthians 7:10-11
“To the married I give this charge (not I, but the Lord): the wife should not separate from her husband…and if she does, she should remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband.” – 1 Corinthians 7:10-11
Mark 10:9
“What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.” – Mark 10:9
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 16:18
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.” – Matthew 5:32
The Role of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is a powerful theme in the Bible, especially when it comes to marriage and divorce. It can be tempting to hold on to grudges, but God calls us to forgive as He has forgiven us. The act of forgiving doesn’t always mean forgetting what happened, but it does allow us to move forward in a healthy way. As we explore these verses, let’s ask God to help us extend grace to ourselves and others.
Colossians 3:13
“Bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.” – Colossians 3:13
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Matthew 6:14
“For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” – Matthew 6:14
Mark 11:25
“And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.” – Mark 11:25
Luke 17:3-4
“Pay attention to yourselves! If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him; and if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.” – Luke 17:3-4
Remarriage in Light of Scripture
When we face divorce, the decision of whether to remarry is a heavy one. The Bible provides guidance to help us understand the moral implications and things to consider before entering into a new marriage. We can feel uplifted knowing that God understands the complexities of our situations and offers grace as we seek His will for our lives.
1 Corinthians 7:39
“A wife is bound to her husband as long as he lives, but if her husband dies, she is free to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord.” – 1 Corinthians 7:39
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.” – Romans 7:2-3
1 Timothy 5:14
“So I would have younger widows marry, bear children, manage their households, and give the adversary no occasion for slander.” – 1 Timothy 5:14
Ephesians 5:22-23
“Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior.” – Ephesians 5:22-23
Deuteronomy 24:1-4
“When a man takes a wife and marries her, if then she finds no favor in his eyes because he has found some indecency in her, and he writes her a certificate of divorce…” – Deuteronomy 24:1-4
God’s Grace in Difficult Times
We all go through rough patches in our relationships; grappling with divorce can be one of the most challenging times in our lives. Thankfully, God’s grace is abundant. The Bible assures us of His unfailing love and mercy as we go through the pain and heartache. Together, we can lean on God’s promises, finding strength and comfort in His presence.
Psalms 34:18
“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” – Psalms 34:18
2 Corinthians 12:9
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9
Isaiah 41:10
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
Psalms 147:3
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalms 147:3
Romans 8:28
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” – Romans 8:28
Warnings Against Adultery
Adultery can severely damage relationships and disrupt families, and the Bible is clear about the consequences that come from it. As we dive into these verses, we will see how God warns us about the dangers of infidelity and emphasize the importance of faithfulness in marriage. It’s essential for us to explore these Scriptures with the intention of strengthening our bonds and being accountable to one another.
Exodus 20:14
“You shall not commit adultery.” – Exodus 20:14
Proverbs 6:32
“He who commits adultery lacks sense; he who does it destroys himself.” – Proverbs 6:32
Proverbs 7:27
“Her house is the way to Sheol, going down to the chambers of death.” – Proverbs 7:27
Matthew 5:28
“But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” – Matthew 5:28
Proverbs 5:15
“Drink water from your own cistern, flowing water from your own well.” – Proverbs 5:15
The Call to a Godly Marriage
Marriages that are centered on God’s principles tend to flourish. The Bible offers numerous instructions that can guide our relationships towards a godly union filled with love, respect, and understanding. As we read the verses below, let’s be reminded of the beauty of a Christ-centered marriage and the impact it can have not only on our lives but also on the lives of those around us.
1 Peter 3:1-2
“Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives.” – 1 Peter 3:1-2
Ephesians 5:25
“Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” – Ephesians 5:25
Colossians 3:18-19
“Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.” – Colossians 3:18-19
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
“Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Proverbs 18:22
“He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord.” – Proverbs 18:22
The Importance of Communication
Communication plays a vital role in any relationship, especially in marriage. When we communicate openly and honestly, it leads to better understanding and deeper intimacy. The Bible teaches us about being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Together, let’s explore the importance of communication in maintaining healthy relationships, drawing insight from God’s word.
James 1:19
“Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.” – James 1:19
Proverbs 29:11
“A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back.” – Proverbs 29:11
Proverbs 15:1
“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
Colossians 4:6
“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.” – Colossians 4:6
Ephesians 4:15
“Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.” – Ephesians 4:15
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the Bible verses about marriage, divorce, and remarriage, we realize how important it is to follow God’s guidance in these matters. Marriage is a beautiful gift from God, but it does require work, communication, and faithfulness. While divorce may be necessary in some painful circumstances, it’s essential to remember that God’s grace is always available for healing and growth. Forgiveness plays a crucial role, allowing us to let go of past hurts and move forward. By keeping our focus on His word, we can build strong foundations for our marriages and relationships.
Let us be reminded of the value of communication, understanding, and forgiveness within our relationships, regardless of where we are on this journey. Whether we are building a new marriage or healing from a broken one, God is guiding us every step of the way. With His strength and wisdom, we can navigate the complexities of marriage and divorce with grace and love.
May we always look to His word for guidance, finding hope and encouragement in Scripture as we seek to honor Him in our relationships. Let’s strive to reflect His love in our lives and be vessels of His grace to one another.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
