How does Deuteronomy 24:2 address the issue of remarriage after divorce? Setting the Scene - Deuteronomy 24:2: “and if, after leaving his house, she goes and becomes another man’s wife,” - Moses is regulating a real cultural situation: a wife divorced by her first husband (v. 1) chooses to marry someone else (v. 2). - The focus is not on encouraging divorce but on setting clear boundaries for a fallen world where divorce occurs (cf. Matthew 19:8). Key Observations from the Text • A legitimate remarriage is assumed – The Hebrew syntax presents remarriage as an actual outcome, not merely hypothetical: “she goes and becomes another man’s wife.” – There is no condemnation in v. 2 for the fact of remarriage itself; the legislation simply acknowledges it. • Legal protection for the woman – By recognizing her second marriage, the Law shields her from being treated as property that can be reclaimed by the first husband (vv. 3–4). – This prevents exploitation and provides social stability for her new household. • Irreversibility of the first divorce – The remainder of the passage forbids the first husband from taking her back (v. 4). – This underscores the seriousness of divorce: what is broken cannot be casually reassembled. Implications for Remarriage Today 1. Remarriage after a legitimate divorce is treated as an existing reality, not inherently sin in this context. 2. The permanence of marriage is still upheld: a first husband’s rights end at divorce, reinforcing Jesus’ teaching against casual divorce (Mark 10:4–9). 3. The prohibition of returning to the first spouse highlights God’s desire to prevent cycles of sin, abuse, or instability. Harmony with New Testament Teaching - Jesus cites this passage (Matthew 19:7–9). He affirms its historical validity while pointing followers back to God’s original design for lifelong marriage (Genesis 2:24). - Paul, acknowledging situations of broken marriages, permits remarriage under certain conditions (1 Corinthians 7:15), yet always urges faithfulness where possible. Takeaways for Believers • Scripture treats marriage as a solemn covenant; divorce is never trivial. • Where divorce has occurred, Deuteronomy 24:2 shows remarriage is recognized and regulated, not invalidated. • Christians are called to honor their current marriage, live in repentance and faith, and uphold covenant loyalty moving forward (Ephesians 5:25–33). |
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