What Does the Bible Say About Divorce and Remarriage?
The Bible holds two truths together: God hates divorce, and God gives grace to divorced people. This page states what Scripture says plainly, with compassion for those living it.
What the Bible says
- Scripture
For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously.
Malachi 2:16 God hates divorce because it tears what He joined and so often covers violence: His heart is protective, not merely legal.
- Scripture
And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
Matthew 19:9 Jesus upholds marriage's permanence and names sexual immorality as the exception He recognizes.
- Scripture
But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace.
1 Corinthians 7:15 Paul adds the case of abandonment by an unbelieving spouse: the believer is "not under bondage" but called to peace.
A grounded way to understand this
If you are divorced, the Bible does not define you by it: there is full forgiveness and a future in Christ (1 John 1:9). If you are in an abusive marriage, hear this clearly: nothing here commands you to remain in danger. God's hatred of "putting away" never meant His approval of violence; seek safety and wise counsel immediately.
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People also ask
Is divorce a sin?
God says He hates divorce (Malachi 2:16), and Jesus restricts it tightly (Matthew 19:9). But the Bible treats it as a forgivable sin like any other (1 John 1:9), and recognizes cases, adultery and abandonment, where it is permitted.
Can divorced people remarry?
Jesus permits remarriage after divorce for fornication (Matthew 19:9); Paul permits it after abandonment by an unbeliever (1 Corinthians 7:15). Beyond these cases Christians differ, and pastors should be consulted.
What if I'm being abused?
Get safe first. The Bible condemns violence (Psalm 11:5) and never commands enduring abuse. Separation for safety is not the same as a casual divorce; talk to a trusted pastor or counselor and, where needed, civil authorities.
Every answer is grounded in Scripture (KJV) and written to bring clarity, comfort, and truth.