What does the Bible say about remarrying?

What Does the Bible Say About Remarrying?

Remarriage is a topic that is often shrouded in controversy and uncertainty. When it comes to biblical grounds for divorce and remarriage, many Christians struggle to navigate the complex teachings of Scripture. In this article, we will explore the biblical perspective on remarriage, examining the relevant passages and principles that guide our understanding of this important topic.

Direct Answer to the Question: What Does the Bible Say About Remarrying?

In the Bible, remarriage is not explicitly prohibited. However, the Bible does provide guidelines for when and how remarriage is acceptable. The primary principle guiding remarriage is that of biblical grounds for divorce, which are outlined in Scripture.

The Biblical Grounds for Divorce

The Bible teaches that divorce is permissible in cases of adultery, abandonment, and persistent porneia (fornication). These grounds are outlined in Matthew 5:32, 19:9, and 1 Corinthians 7:15. In each of these passages, the Bible emphasizes that remarriage is permissible when a spouse has committed one of these sinful acts, making it impossible for the innocent party to continue the marriage.

The Purpose of Biblical Divorce

Biblical divorce is not intended to be a casual or frivolous act. Rather, it is a serious step that is meant to restore the innocent party to a state of moral purity and to protect them from further harm. In Matthew 19:9, Jesus teaches that remarriage is permissible after divorce when a spouse has committed adultery, but He also emphasizes that the purpose of divorce is to avoid sin and to protect the innocent party.

Remarriage After Biblical Grounds for Divorce

When a spouse has committed one of the biblical grounds for divorce, the innocent party is free to remarry. In 1 Corinthians 7:39, the apostle Paul teaches that a woman (or man) is free to remarry if she (or he) is married to an unbeliever who has departed from the faith. This passage is often cited as a precedent for remarriage after a spouse has abandoned the Christian faith.

Remarriage After a Sexless Marriage

A sexless marriage, or a marriage that has lost its sexual intimacy, is not a biblical ground for divorce. While a sexless marriage can be a difficult and challenging situation, it is not a sin that warrants divorce. In 1 Corinthians 7:3-5, the apostle Paul teaches that married couples should prioritize intimacy and sexual unity in their marriage. If a sexless marriage is not being addressed through counseling and communication, it is not a biblical ground for divorce.

Remarriage After a Marriage Has Been Rendered Void

In some cases, a marriage may be rendered void due to a lack of consent, deception, or other factors that make the marriage invalid. In these situations, remarriage is permissible after the invalid marriage has been annulled or dissolved.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Bible teaches that remarriage is permissible in certain circumstances, including when a spouse has committed adultery, abandoned the faith, or rendered the marriage void. While remarriage is a serious step that should be taken with careful consideration and biblical guidance, it is a possibility for those who have been affected by sin and are seeking to start anew.

Key Takeaways

• Remarriage is permissible in cases of adultery, abandonment, and persistent porneia (fornication).
• Biblical divorce is a serious step meant to restore the innocent party to a state of moral purity and to protect them from further harm.
• Remarriage is not permissible after a sexless marriage or a marriage that has not been rendered void.
• The purpose of remarriage is to start anew and to prioritize biblical principles in a new marriage.

Additional Resources

• Matthew 5:32, 19:9: Jesus teaches that remarriage is permissible after divorce when a spouse has committed adultery.
• 1 Corinthians 7:15: The apostle Paul teaches that a woman (or man) is free to remarry if she (or he) is married to an unbeliever who has departed from the faith.
• 1 Corinthians 7:3-5: The apostle Paul teaches that married couples should prioritize intimacy and sexual unity in their marriage.

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