Day 331, Chronological Bible Study
Answers to Questions about Divorce and remarriage
The conservative view interprets these verses to mean just what Jesus said.
- Divorce was never in God’s plan
- Moses only permitted divorce for one reason: adultery
- To remarry is to commit adultery
The unmarried referenced in 1Corinthians 7:1-2, 8-9 would mean those who have never been married. Otherwise, why would he instruct the Corinthians in verses 10-14 not to get divorced, but if they do, stay unmarried or reconcile?
There is no phrase following 1 Corinthian 7:15, which says he can remarry. If we argue the phrase is implied, it would contradict Jesus’ words. Furthermore, it contradicts Paul’s message—stay in the condition that you are. Marriage is a lifelong covenant witnessed by many on earth and in heaven. It’s a vow which God wants us to keep, not to make us miserable with no hope, but to discover our hope and satisfaction is in him.
God takes vows seriously. If you made a vow to your spouse to obey or to love and cherish him, keep it.
There is always forgiveness for any sins we confess. Your life is not over if you divorced and remarried. The Apostle Paul’s instruction is to stay married to your current spouse and make the best marriage you can.
In the previous verses and the following two verses, Paul encourages saving the marriage. [Sandwiched in between is the verse in question:] But if the unbeliever leaves, let him do so. A believing man or woman is not bound in such circumstances; God has called us to live in peace. (1Corinthians 7:15, NIV)
[Notice how Paul returns to what he said in 7:12-14] How do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or, how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife? Nevertheless, each one should retain the place in life that the Lord assigned to him and to which God has called him. This is the rule I lay down in all the churches. (1Corinthians 7:16-17, NIV)
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