What are biblical grounds for divorce? | GotQuestions.org

Biblical Grounds for Divorce

Today's question is, what are biblical grounds for divorce? In this video I'll answer that question from a biblical perspective. Then afterwards, as always, I'll share some helpful resources, so stick around until the end.

When discussing what the Bible says about divorce, it is important to keep in mind the words of Malachi 2, verse 16, "'I hate divorce,' says the Lord God.". Whatever grounds the Bible possibly gives for divorce, that does not mean God desires a divorce to occur in those instances.

Rather than asking, is such-and-such grounds for divorce, often the question should be, is such-and-such grounds for forgiveness, restoration, and or counseling? The Bible gives two clear grounds for divorce.

Sexual Immorality as a Ground for Divorce

First, sexual immorality, Matthew 5, verse 32 and chapter 19, verse 9. And second, abandonment by an unbeliever, 1 Corinthians 7, verse 15. In these two instances, though, divorce is not required or even encouraged.

The most that can be said is that sexual immorality and abandonment are grounds, an allowance, for divorce. Confession, forgiveness, reconciliation, and restoration are always the first steps. Divorce should only be viewed as a last resort.

Additional Claims About Divorce Beyond Scripture

Are there any grounds for divorce beyond what the Bible explicitly says? Perhaps, but we do not presume upon the Word of God. It is very dangerous to go beyond what the Bible says, 1 Corinthians 4, verse 6.

The most frequent additional grounds for divorce that people inquire about are spousal abuse, emotional or physical, child abuse, addiction to pornography, drug or alcohol use, crime or imprisonment, and mismanagement of finances, such as through gambling addiction.

None of these can be claimed to be explicit biblical grounds for divorce. That does not necessarily mean, though, that none of them are grounds for divorce, which God would approve of. For example, we cannot imagine that it would be God's desire for a wife to remain with a husband who physically abuses her and or their children.

In such an instance, the wife should definitely separate herself and the children from the abusive husband. However, even in such a situation, a time of separation with the goal of repentance and restoration should be the ideal, not necessarily immediately beginning divorce proceedings.

Separation, Safety, and the Question of Remarriage

Please understand, by saying that those are not biblical grounds for divorce, we are definitely not saying that a man or woman whose spouse is engaging in such activities should remain in the situation.

If there is any risk to self or children, separation is a good and appropriate step. Another way to look at this issue is to differentiate between biblical grounds for divorce and biblical grounds for divorce and remarriage.

Some interpret the two biblical grounds for divorce mentioned earlier as the only grounds for remarriage after a divorce, but allow for divorce with no remarriage in other instances. While this is a plausible interpretation, it seems to come too close to presuming upon the Word of God.

For more information, please read the two articles on divorce and remarriage listed in the description below this video. In summary, what are the biblical grounds for divorce? The answer is sexual immorality and abandonment.

Final Summary and Resource Callout

Are there additional grounds for divorce beyond these two? Possibly. Is divorce ever to be treated lightly or employed as a first recourse? Absolutely not. God is capable of changing and reforming any person.

God is capable of healing and renewing any marriage. Divorce should only occur in instances of repeated and unrepentant hideous sin. Want to learn more? Subscribe so you don't miss the next video! Visit GotQuestions .org for more great content.

And check out the details section below this video, there you'll find one book I recommend, along with the two links I mentioned earlier. If you'd like to learn about Bible Munch, or if you're interested in Bite-sized devotionals, subscribe to Bible Munch on YouTube, it's linked right here.

Now remember, Got questions? The Bible has answers, and we'll help you find them!