Is remarriage after adultery considered adultery?

Definition and Scope

Remarriage after adultery involves the situation where one or both spouses have engaged in marital unfaithfulness—often termed “sexual immorality” or “adultery” in Scripture—and subsequently either the marriage ends, or the couple remains legally married but estranged, and eventually one or both parties remarry. The core question posed is whether the new union amounts to ongoing adultery or if it is permitted under biblical teaching. This entry explores the related scriptural passages, contextual backgrounds, and interpretative considerations.

Key Biblical Passages

1. Matthew 5:31–32

“‘It has also been said, “Whoever divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.” But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, causes her to commit adultery. And whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.’”

This passage introduces the “exception clause,” where Jesus clarifies that divorcing for reasons other than sexual immorality (Greek: porneia) results in adultery if remarriage occurs. The emphasis is on safeguarding marriage while allowing divorce in the narrow instance of immorality.

2. Matthew 19:8–9

“Jesus replied, ‘Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning. Now I tell you that whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman, commits adultery.’”

Here, Jesus affirms the original divine intent for a lifelong marital union, yet acknowledges an allowance for divorce (and implied potential remarriage) if one spouse has violated the marriage covenant through sexual immorality.

3. Mark 10:2–12 and Luke 16:18

These passages echo Jesus’ strong stance on the sanctity of marriage. Mark 10:11–12 reads, “So He told them, ‘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.’” Luke 16:18 similarly states, “Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery, and he who marries a woman divorced from her husband commits adultery.” Notably, Mark and Luke do not include the “exception clause,” leading to various viewpoints on how to reconcile these accounts with Matthew’s inclusion.

4. 1 Corinthians 7:10–15

Paul instructs married believers, “‘A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband.’ … ‘But if the unbeliever leaves, let him go…God has called you to live in peace.’” While this passage does not explicitly address adultery as grounds for divorce, it provides another dimension—abandonment by an unbelieving spouse—the so-called “Pauline privilege.” Here, remarriage may be permissible for a believer deserted by an unbelieving partner.

Contextual Considerations

1. Meaning of “Sexual Immorality” (Porneia)

The Greek term porneia covers a broad range of sexual sins, including adultery. Most interpreters hold it to encompass any serious sexual unfaithfulness that breaks the marriage covenant. Given this term, Matthew’s “exception clause” can be understood as referencing marital unfaithfulness as a biblically recognized ground for divorce, with remarriage typically regarded as permissible for the offended (innocent) spouse.

2. Ancient Jewish Background

Documents like the Dead Sea Scrolls and first-century rabbinic writings reflect that Jewish law generally allowed for divorce when a spouse committed adultery. Though the total cultural landscape was intricate, the biblical text asserts a higher standard than many cultural norms of the time, emphasizing marriage permanence except in grave covenant violations.

3. Harmonizing Matthew, Mark, and Luke

Some early manuscripts align the majority reading that Matthew includes an exception for sexual immorality, whereas Mark and Luke offer general prohibitions without stating the exception explicitly. Textual criticism indicates no contradiction but rather complementary emphases: Mark and Luke underscore the sanctity of marriage, while Matthew preserves Jesus’ specific reference to sexual sin as a legitimate ground for divorce.

Interpretive Views on Remarriage

1. The “Exception” Permits Remarriage for the Innocent Spouse

A common conservative viewpoint holds that the spouse who has been wronged by adultery may legitimately file for divorce and subsequently remarry without bearing the guilt of adultery themselves. Matthew 5:32 and 19:9 are often cited in support, indicating that the adultery has already broken the covenant, freeing the offended spouse from marital obligation.

2. Emphasis on Forgiveness and Reconciliation

Even where there is biblical ground for divorce, Scripture repeatedly highlights forgiveness and reconciliation wherever possible (cf. Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13). God’s ideal is often depicted as restoring relationships and hearts. Many Christian writers urge that whenever possible, the offended spouse should pursue repentance, counseling, and reconciliation before concluding divorce.

3. The Guilty Party’s Remarriage

Considerable debate exists regarding the spouse who committed adultery. Some hold that the guilty individual might still remarry after genuine repentance, citing passages such as 1 John 1:9 on forgiveness of sins. Others argue that the guilty party, while forgiven by God, might remain under the constraint of not initiating a new marriage. Interpretations vary by denominational or church tradition, though Scripture’s overarching theme is that true repentance can restore a believer to fellowship with God (Psalm 51; Luke 15:11–32).

Practical and Pastoral Implications

1. Avoiding Legalism and Condemnation

Throughout history, sections of the church have wrestled with how to apply these verses without legalistically condemning individuals who regret past marital failures. The pastoral goal is both to uphold biblical fidelity—testifying that marriage is sacred—and to extend grace, recognizing the power of the gospel to redeem broken lives.

2. Separation vs. Divorce

Some suggest a period of separation to allow time for repentance and reconciliation, particularly in cases of adultery. Churches often encourage counseling that honors Scripture while addressing emotional and relational trauma. Ensuring safety (e.g., in abusive or dangerous contexts) is also a legitimate concern.

3. Lifelong Effects

Multiple sociological and behavioral studies—along with anecdotal testimonies—show that adultery and subsequent divorce carry long-term emotional, spiritual, and relational consequences. This underscores why Scripture treats adultery so seriously. Still, many find restoration in a subsequent marriage, especially when accompanied by deep repentance and spiritual growth.

Conclusion

Is remarriage after adultery considered adultery? Scripture does allow for the dissolution of the marriage bond when a spouse is sexually unfaithful, as seen in Matthew 19:9. The consensus among many interpreters is that the innocent spouse is free to remarry without being labeled an adulterer or adulteress. However, the biblical narrative calls all believers to seek reconciliation and repentance first, reflecting the heart of a merciful God who can restore the broken.

Ultimately, each situation must be evaluated prayerfully, guided by Scripture and godly counsel. While Jesus presents adultery as a legitimate ground for divorce, the emphasis remains on honoring the covenant of marriage whenever possible. Where adultery has occurred, the new covenant in Christ invites repentance, grace, and the possibility of a fresh start, abiding by the teaching that God’s plan for marriage testifies to His unbreakable love toward His people (Ephesians 5:25–33).