What Does the Bible Say About Divorce and Remarriage?
Divorce. It’s one of the hardest things anyone can face. If you’ve been through it or you’re considering it, you’ve probably asked yourself some tough questions. Is divorce a sin in the Bible? Can a divorced woman remarry according to the Bible? What did Jesus say about divorce?
These aren’t just theological curiosities. They’re deeply personal, often painful questions. Whether you’re trying to rebuild after heartbreak, seeking clarity about your faith, or walking with someone through this season, it helps to go back to the foundation: What does the Bible say about divorce and remarriage?
The Bible and Divorce: God’s Original Design
Let’s start with where it all began. In Genesis 2:24, we read that “a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” That bond, this "one flesh" union, is meant to be sacred, unbreakable, and lifelong.
Jesus echoed this truth in Matthew 19:6 when He said, “What God has joined together, let no one separate.”
That’s the heart of Christian marriage. But life, as many of us know too well, is not always so simple. Sin, betrayal, neglect, and heartbreak creep in, and the covenant is tested.
Divorce in the Bible: When Separation Happens
So, what does the Bible say about divorce? And what are the biblical reasons for divorce?
Sexual Immorality (Adultery)
In Matthew 19:9, Jesus gives a clear statement:
“I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.”
This is often referred to as one of the biblical grounds for divorce. If a spouse commits adultery, breaking the sacred bond of trust, Jesus permits but does not require divorce.
Abandonment by an Unbeliever
In 1 Corinthians 7:15, the Apostle Paul adds another scenario:
“But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart; a brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases.”
If one spouse is not a believer and chooses to leave the marriage, the believing spouse is not bound, meaning divorce is allowed.
These are the two clear biblical reasons for divorce found in Scripture. Outside of these, God encourages reconciliation, patience, and grace.
Is Divorce a Sin in the Bible?
This is one of the biggest emotional weight questions Christians carry: Is divorce a sin in the Bible?
The answer is… it depends.
God hates divorce (Malachi 2:16) because of what it does to families, individuals, and His original design. But that doesn’t mean every divorce is sinful. If a divorce occurs because of adultery or abandonment, it is not labeled as sin in Scripture.
However, when couples divorce without biblical grounds simply because they’ve grown apart, lost interest, or feel unhappy, the Bible does not approve of those reasons.
Is It a Sin to Remarry After Divorce?
This is where things get even more sensitive. Many wonder: If I’ve been divorced, can I get remarried? And if I do, am I living in sin?
Here’s what Scripture on divorce and remarriage says:
- If your divorce was for biblical reasons (adultery or abandonment), you are free to remarry without it being a sin.
- But if your divorce was not on biblical grounds and you remarry, Jesus calls that adultery (Luke 16:18).
Hard truth, but also important clarity. That said, God’s forgiveness covers every sin, even the sin of unbiblical divorce or remarriage. The key is repentance, humility, and a heart that desires to align with God's will moving forward.
What Did Jesus Say About Divorce?
Jesus was crystal clear. In Matthew 5:31-32, He said:
“Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce. But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, makes her the victim of adultery.”
He emphasized that marriage is not disposable. Jesus was addressing a culture that allowed divorce for virtually any reason, and He raised the bar. His words challenge us to treat marriage as the sacred covenant it was always meant to be.
So, if you're wondering, what did Jesus say about divorce?
He said it is allowed only for sexual immorality and that remarriage after wrongful divorce can lead to adultery.
Can a Divorced Woman Remarry According to the Bible?
If a woman is divorced for biblical reasons, such as her husband committing adultery or abandoning the marriage, she may remarry without guilt.
But if the divorce was not based on those biblical grounds, the Bible encourages her to either remain unmarried or seek reconciliation with her former spouse (1 Corinthians 7:10-11).
Again, it’s not about shame. It’s about honoring the covenant and seeking God’s heart.
Christian Divorce: What Makes It Different?
For believers, divorce is never just a legal process; it’s a spiritual one. That’s why Christian divorce should always involve prayer, wise counsel, accountability, and a deep desire to obey God’s Word.
A biblical divorce aligns with what Scripture allows. It’s not taken lightly. It’s not rushed. It’s never about convenience, it’s about truth.
Common Scriptures on Divorce
If you want to explore the scripture on divorce for yourself, here are a few verses to study:
- Matthew 19:39 — Jesus discusses divorce and adultery.
- 1 Corinthians 7:10-16 — Paul gives instructions to married couples and those with unbelieving spouses.
- Malachi 2:16 — God expresses His hatred for divorce.
- Luke 16:18 — Jesus talks about remarriage and sin.
- Deuteronomy 24:14 — The Old Testament law about divorce certificates.
These scriptures offer context and guidance. But the full story also requires prayer, discernment, and sometimes, pastoral guidance.
What If I’ve Already Messed Up?
This might be the hardest part. Maybe your divorce wasn’t for biblical reasons. Maybe your remarriage happened before you knew all of this. Maybe you’re feeling shame, regret, or fear.
Here’s what I want you to know: There is forgiveness.
Romans 8:1 says, “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
You cannot change the past. But you can change how you walk forward. Honor God in the marriage you're in now. Be faithful. Be loving. Live out your new relationship with grace and truth.
Final Words
If you’ve made it this far, it means your heart is open, you’re seeking truth, healing, and peace. Please remember this: God still loves you. You are not broken beyond repair, and your story isn’t over. No matter where you’ve been or what choices you’ve made, there is still hope, and healing is possible. You are not alone.
FAQs
1. Does the Bible support a second marriage?
Yes, but only after a biblical divorce, such as for adultery or abandonment. If the divorce wasn’t on these grounds, a second marriage may be viewed as adultery according to Jesus' teachings.
2. Is it a sin to marry a divorced woman?
If her divorce was not for biblical reasons, then marrying her may go against what Jesus taught. However, if the divorce was biblically justified, it is not considered a sin to marry her.
3. Does God forgive remarriage?
Yes, God offers forgiveness for all sins, including unbiblical remarriage. Through confession, repentance, and a sincere desire to honor His design, restoration and grace are always possible.
4. Is a sexless marriage a biblical reason for divorce?
Not explicitly. While the Bible doesn’t list it as a direct reason, chronic neglect and emotional detachment may signal deeper issues that need pastoral care and wise counsel.
5. Did Jesus allow divorce for adultery?
Yes. In Matthew 19:9, Jesus clearly states that sexual immorality is a valid reason for divorce, making it the only direct exception He gives.