Divorce is addressed directly by both the Old and New Testaments, and though allowances are made in certain cases, God’s clear intention is that marriage be permanent. Malachi 2:16 says, “For the Lord God of Israel says that He hates divorce, for it covers one’s garment with violence.” This reveals the depth of brokenness it brings.
Jesus teaches in Matthew 19:6, “So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.” When the Pharisees asked why Moses permitted divorce, Jesus explained it was because of the hardness of men’s hearts, but “from the beginning it was not so” (Matthew 19:8).
There is one exception Jesus gives: Matthew 5:32, “But I say to you that whoever divorces his wife for any reason except sexual immorality causes her to commit adultery.” This clause recognizes the deep covenantal breach that occurs in marital unfaithfulness.
Paul also addresses abandonment by an unbelieving spouse in 1 Corinthians 7:15, “But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart; a brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases.”
Divorce is never God’s ideal. It is permitted in certain grievous situations but is never to be taken lightly. Marriage is a covenant meant to reflect Christ’s love for His Church (Ephesians 5:25-32), and it must be honored with sobriety, grace, and commitment.
