Can a couple remarry after divorce?

1. Introduction

Understanding whether a couple can remarry after divorce requires examining the biblical texts that address marriage, separation, and remarriage. Marriage is consistently portrayed in Scripture as a covenantal bond. However, certain passages discuss exceptions and potential circumstances for remarriage. This entry explores relevant Old Testament and New Testament teachings to establish a comprehensive biblical viewpoint on the question of remarriage after divorce.

2. Old Testament Foundations

In the Law of Moses, marriage was established as a sacred covenant between husband and wife. Deuteronomy 24:1–4 is a pivotal passage that governs the regulation of divorce under certain conditions. It states:

“When a man takes a wife and marries her, if she does not find favor in his eyes because he has found some indecency in her, and he writes her a certificate of divorce, gives it to her, and sends her away from his house…” (Deuteronomy 24:1).

This passage indicates that, within Israel’s theocratic context, a certificate of divorce was permitted if “some indecency” was found. The woman was then free to remarry, but the original husband was not allowed to take her back after she had been married to another.

Some readers inquire whether “some indecency” could broadly encompass various marital issues or if it referred primarily to sexual immorality. By comparing its Hebrew phrasing with other Old Testament passages, many conservative scholars suggest that it focused on significant moral failings (often connected to sexual transgressions). The aim was to protect both parties from unbridled accusations and to protect the divorced woman from destitution.

3. Jesus’ Teachings

The Gospels record Jesus addressing divorce directly, especially in Matthew and Mark. In conversations with the religious leaders, He rooted marriage in the creation account—where God established a lifelong union (see Genesis 2:24). Jesus taught that Moses allowed divorce only because of the hardness of human hearts (Matthew 19:7–8).

3.1. Matthew’s Exception Clause

In Matthew 19:9, Jesus says:

“And I tell you that whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman, commits adultery.”

Here, “sexual immorality” is from the Greek term “porneia,” which includes various sexual sins. Jesus permitted divorce specifically in cases of sexual immorality, implying that in instances of marital unfaithfulness, there could be grounds for both divorce and remarriage.

3.2. Mark’s Emphasis on Permanence

In Mark 10:11–12, Jesus proclaims:

“Whoever divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her. And if a woman divorces her husband and marries another man, she commits adultery.”

Mark’s Gospel, written for a predominantly Roman audience, does not restate the exception clause found in Matthew. This omission highlights the broader principle: marriage should be held in high regard and only severed in extreme circumstances.

3.3. Luke’s Brief Statement

Luke 16:18 echoes the same theme:

“Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery, and he who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.”

Like Mark, Luke’s account does not mention the exception clause. Instead, he underlines the standard of lifelong commitment. Comparing all three Synoptic Gospels together, the primary message remains that God’s design is for marriage to be permanent, with divorce only considered in specific serious transgressions.

4. Pauline Epistles

In 1 Corinthians 7, the Apostle Paul addresses believers who face various marital scenarios.

4.1. The Believing Couple

For Christian couples, Paul affirms that they should not divorce. If separation occurs, the instructions are either to remain unmarried or to be reconciled (1 Corinthians 7:10–11). This emphasis preserves the sanctity of marriage.

4.2. The Unbelieving Spouse

Paul addresses a scenario where one spouse is a believer, and the other is not. He instructs the believing spouse to remain if the unbeliever is willing (1 Corinthians 7:12–13). However, if the unbelieving spouse departs, the believer is “not bound” in such circumstances (1 Corinthians 7:15). This phrase “not bound” is widely understood as freedom from that marriage bond—and many scholars see this as permission for the believing spouse to remarry.

4.3. Grounds for Remarriage

Paul’s instructions in 1 Corinthians 7 suggest two general scriptural grounds for remarriage:

• The death of a spouse (Romans 7:2–3, 1 Corinthians 7:39).

• A legitimate biblical divorce (i.e., for sexual immorality or abandonment by an unbelieving spouse).

5. Nature of Forgiveness and Restoration

Scripture consistently upholds God’s capacity to forgive any sin. If a divorce occurred outside of the biblical grounds, repentance involves acknowledging wrongdoing and turning back to God. While some Christians hold that remarriage outside biblical parameters constitutes ongoing adultery, others assert that true repentance and a commitment to honor God in the new marriage can result in divine restoration.

This perspective builds on passages such as 1 John 1:9, which stresses that believers who confess and repent are forgiven. Each local church community handles this subject with pastoral care, recognizing that real-life situations can be complex.

6. Key Considerations for Remarriage

6.1. Biblical Grounds

Was the original divorce based on sexual immorality, or was the believing spouse abandoned by an unbelieving partner? If so, remarriage can be considered scripturally permissible.

6.2. Reconciliation

Has there been a genuine opportunity for reconciliation if the marriage ended for non-biblical reasons? Restoration is always ideal if possible.

6.3. Repentance and Counsel

In cases of past sin or hasty divorce, seeking pastoral counsel, confessing wrongdoing, and pursuing a new commitment to obedience can help navigate whether remarriage is God-honoring.

7. Cultural and Historical Context

Historically, many in the early church grappled with these teachings. Ancient documents like the Didache echo the New Testament call to uphold marriage. Archaeological studies show certificates of divorce from the ancient world that mirror Old Testament practices in protecting the rights of the divorced party. Manuscript evidence indicates a consistent transmission of the “exception clause” in Matthew’s Gospel, supporting an authentic record of Jesus’ teaching.

8. Pastoral Care and Application

Local congregations must walk with individuals facing divorce and remarriage, recognizing the emotional weight and spiritual significance of these decisions. Compassion and understanding are vital, while also upholding biblical teaching.

When couples seek remarriage, it is advisable to involve mature believers or church leaders who can offer counsel based on Scripture. Pursuing prayer, accountability, and godly mentorship can guard against repeated relational failures and honor the ultimate aim of glorifying God.

9. Conclusion

Scripture establishes marriage as a lifelong covenant. Yet, in certain situations—particularly sexual immorality or abandonment by an unbelieving spouse—divorce and subsequent remarriage may be biblically justified.

When considering remarriage, believers should always approach the decision prayerfully, guided by the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Churches and pastors can offer support, setting an environment where repentance, restoration, and renewal remain central. As with all questions of conscience, the goal is to honor God within every marital covenant, uphold the sanctity of marriage, and reflect the redeeming grace freely offered through Jesus Christ.