5) Remarriage
When is remarriage permitted? The biblical teaching on remarriage after divorce
One of the most difficult questions that divorced people face is: “Can I remarry?” The answer is not simple and depends on the circumstances. In this lesson, we will examine what the Bible teaches about remarriage.
The Basic Principle
While the spouse lives, does the marriage bond remain?
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Answer: Yes, the woman is bound to her husband while he lives
Romans 7:2-3: "For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband. So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man."
Paul establishes the basic principle: marriage is for life. The bond is completely dissolved only by the death of one spouse.
When is the widow free to remarry?
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Answer: When her husband dies, she is free to marry, but only in the Lord
1 Corinthians 7:39: "The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord."
Death completely dissolves the marriage bond. The widow or widower is free to remarry, but must do so “only in the Lord,” that is, with another believer.
Remarriage After Divorce
Who can remarry without committing adultery, according to Jesus?
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Answer: Whoever divorced because of the spouse's infidelity
Matthew 19:9: "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."
Jesus indicates that whoever divorces because of “porneia” (sexual infidelity of the spouse) may remarry without committing adultery. The innocent party has freedom to rebuild their life.
The Bible does not present here an explicit rule about the remarriage of the guilty party. What it does clearly affirm is the seriousness of sexual sin and the need for genuine repentance. Situations like this require wisdom, prayer, fruits of repentance, and mature pastoral guidance.
“The conditions of obtaining mercy of God are simple and just and reasonable.” — Ellen G. White, Steps to Christ, SC 37.2.
Abandonment by an Unbelieving Spouse
What happens when an unbelieving spouse abandons the believer?
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Answer: The brother or sister is not bound in such cases
1 Corinthians 7:15: "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."
Some scholars understand that abandonment by an unbeliever may be another situation that permits remarriage. The expression “is not bound” suggests freedom from the bond. Others disagree. It is an area that requires discernment and pastoral guidance.
Complex Situations
Conversion does not erase a person’s history, but in Christ there is real forgiveness, new life, and restoration. Situations prior to baptism require careful biblical and pastoral evaluation. No one should be treated as hopeless, but decisions about remarriage need to be made with discernment, submission to Scripture, and mature spiritual guidance.
What attitude does God have toward repentant sinners?
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Answer: He blots out transgressions and remembers sins no more
Isaiah 43:25: "I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins."
“The true penitent thus brings all his sins before God.” — Ellen G. White, Steps to Christ, SC 41.2.
Practical Considerations
Before considering a new marriage, what is important?
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Answer: Seeking God's guidance and wise counsel
Proverbs 3:5-6: "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
A new marriage is a serious decision that requires:
- Time: Do not rush; heal past wounds first
- Prayer: Seek God’s direction sincerely
- Counseling: Talk with your pastor and Christian counselors
- Honesty: Be transparent about your past
- Commitment: Enter the new marriage determined to honor God
The new marriage should be with what type of person?
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Answer: Only in the Lord — with another believer
1 Corinthians 7:39: "The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord."
And Now?
Principles for those considering remarriage:
- The death of the spouse liberates completely: Widows can remarry freely (in the Lord)
- The innocent party of adultery may have freedom: But must seek guidance
- Conversion brings forgiveness and new life: Previous situations require careful biblical and pastoral evaluation
- Seek discernment: Each situation is unique; seek pastoral guidance
- Do not rush: Heal first, then consider a new relationship
- Marry “only in the Lord”: Sharing faith matters
My Decision
If I am considering a new marriage, I commit to seeking God first in prayer and the guidance of wise Christian leaders. I will not make hasty decisions and, if I marry again, it will be “only in the Lord,” with commitment to honor God in this new union.