Question of the Day

Question : Can Christians get a divorce?

Answer:

First and foremost, God hates divorce (Malachi 2:14-16). And though we cannot say it is always right or wrong for a Christian to seek a divorce, or for a divorced Christian to remarry, what we can say is divorce is obviously a very undesirable event.

The pain of damaged relationships and the strain divorce puts on family members—especially children—is apparent to anyone who has been affected by a divorce. The act of marriage literally joins two people as one flesh. Divorce severs and dissolves this new life that was formed.

The Law of Moses addressed the issue of divorce head-on with specific rules. Now Jesus has instituted the new law with its even higher standard. We are no longer under the law of Moses, but are instead to be governed by the law of love (John 13:34) in every circumstance (Romans 13:8, 10; Galatians 5:14, 6:2; James 2:8).

When both members of a marriage union endeavor to walk in the love of God, their marriage will never fail. But what if a believer is in a marriage in which this is not the case? He or she should seek the Lord for guidance and allow the Holy Spirit to direct him or her toward the truth (Proverbs 3:5-6; John 14:26). Divorce is still not assumed to be the best option. The Lord may direct this person in multiple ways. Only he or she and God know if divorce is an option.

Divorce is never God’s best. But it is also not the end of a victorious Christian life. As believers, we can expect to be led by the Spirit of God and know that He neither brings condemnation against us (Romans 8:1) nor removes anyone from a special place in His plan (Romans 11:29). Through Him, the divorced man or woman can walk in victory and fulfill everything God has called them to accomplish!

There is no specific biblical law for the Christian regarding divorce, other than they follow the law of love. The same is true regarding remarriage. The decision to remarry should be based on the love of God and not on selfish desires. If a divorced believer is truly ready to offer him or herself to another believer in marriage, he or she should do so with confidence that the Lord will bless that union. Remember, in Christ all things become new (2 Corinthians 5:17)!

Copied. Kenneth Copeland Ministries