Topical Encyclopedia Divorce and separation are significant topics within the biblical narrative, reflecting both the sanctity of marriage and the complexities of human relationships. The Bible addresses these issues in various contexts, providing guidance and commandments that have been interpreted and applied throughout Christian history.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, marriage is established as a covenantal relationship, intended to reflect the faithfulness and commitment between God and His people. The Mosaic Law addresses divorce in Deuteronomy 24:1-4, where it is permitted under specific circumstances: "If a man marries a woman but she becomes displeasing to him because he finds something indecent about her, he may write her a certificate of divorce, hand it to her, and send her away from his house" . This provision was intended to protect the rights of the woman, ensuring she could remarry and be provided for. The prophets, particularly Malachi, emphasize God's disdain for divorce, highlighting the spiritual and communal implications. Malachi 2:16 states, "For I hate divorce, says the LORD, the God of Israel, and him who covers his garment with violence, says the LORD of Hosts. So guard yourselves in your spirit, and do not break faith" . This underscores the belief that marriage is a sacred bond not to be broken lightly. New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, Jesus addresses divorce directly, reaffirming the sanctity of marriage and raising the standard for marital commitment. In Matthew 19:3-9, Jesus responds to the Pharisees' question about the legality of divorce: "Have you not read that from the beginning the Creator 'made them male and female' and said, 'For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh'? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate" . Jesus acknowledges Moses' concession for divorce due to the hardness of human hearts but emphasizes that it was not so from the beginning. Jesus permits divorce only in the case of sexual immorality, as stated in Matthew 19:9: "And I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery" . This teaching highlights the gravity of marital vows and the limited grounds for divorce. The Apostle Paul also addresses marriage and separation in his epistles. In 1 Corinthians 7:10-11, Paul advises married couples: "To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife" . Paul acknowledges the challenges within marriage but encourages reconciliation and perseverance. Theological Implications The biblical teachings on divorce and separation reflect the broader theological themes of covenant, faithfulness, and redemption. Marriage is seen as a reflection of God's covenant with His people, characterized by steadfast love and commitment. The allowance for divorce, though present, is viewed as a concession to human weakness and sinfulness, rather than an ideal. Throughout Scripture, the emphasis is on the restoration and healing of relationships, mirroring the redemptive work of Christ. The call to faithfulness in marriage serves as a testament to the faithfulness of God, who remains committed to His people despite their failings. Pastoral Considerations In pastoral care, the church is called to uphold the biblical teachings on marriage while extending grace and support to those experiencing marital difficulties. Divorce and separation are recognized as painful realities that require compassion, understanding, and guidance. The church seeks to provide a community of support, encouraging reconciliation where possible and offering healing and hope to those affected by broken relationships. Topical Bible Verses Malachi 2:16For the LORD, the God of Israel, said that he hates putting away: for one covers violence with his garment, said the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that you deal not treacherously. Topicalbible.org 1 Corinthians 7:15 Matthew 19:3-9 Matthew 5:32 Matthew 19:6 1 Corinthians 7:10-16 Matthew 5:31 Matthew 5:31-32 Deuteronomy 24:1-4 Mark 10:2-12 Greek 3080. lusis -- a loosing (by divorce) ... a release, separation. From luo; a loosening, ie (specially), divorce -- to be loosed. see GREEK luo. (lusin) -- 1 Occurrence. 3079, 3080. lusis. 3081 . ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3080.htm - 6k Library The Sacrament of Marriage; Marriage Indissoluble; the World's Law ... General Index From Examples Tertullian Passes to Direct Dogmatic Teachings He ... His Decision on the Question of Divorce. --Celibacy. (Matt. , xix, An Explanation that we May not Appear to Recommend Separation from ... Whether it is Lawful for a Husband to Put Away his Wife on Account ... Whether the Husband Can on his Own Judgment Put Away his Wife on ... But I Marvel, If, as it is Allowed to Put Away a Wife Who... Mothers, Daughters, and Wives in Israel The Call of Levi the Publican Christ in Relation to the Baptist. ... Resources I am in the process of getting a divorce. Can I start dating, or do I have to wait until the divorce is final? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are biblical grounds for divorce? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about divorce and remarriage? | GotQuestions.org Divorce: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Divorce of Captives, Regulated by Law Divorce of Servants, Regulated by Law Divorce: Disobedience of the Wife to the Husband, a Sufficient Cause For, in the Persian Empire Divorce: Forbidden by Christ Except for Adultery Divorce: Forced on Those Who had Idolatrous Wives Divorce: General Scriptures Concerning Divorce: Illustrative of God's Casting off of the Jewish Church Divorce: Jews Condemned for Love of Divorce: Law of Marriage Against Divorce: Not Allowed to Those Who Falsely Accused Their Wives Divorce: Often Sought by the Jews Divorce: Permitted by the Mosaic Law Divorce: Permitted: On Account of Hardness of Heart Divorce: Priests not to Marry Women After Divorce: Prohibition of, offended the Jews Divorce: Sought on Slight Grounds Divorce: Women: Could Marry After Divorce: Women: Married After, Could not Return to First Husband Divorce: Women: Responsible for Vows After Related Terms Transgressions (64 Occurrences) |
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