Divorce is a complex issue, especially when one spouse is an unbeliever. The Bible offers guidance on this difficult situation. Today, we will look at what the Bible says about divorcing an unbeliever and how we can navigate these challenging relationships with God’s wisdom.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Being A Good Example
What Does The Bible Say About Divorcing An Unbeliever
1 Corinthians 7:12-14
“But to the rest I, not the Lord, say: If any brother has a wife who does not believe, and she is willing to live with him, let him not divorce her. And a woman who has a husband who does not believe, if he is willing to live with her, let her not divorce him. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband; otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy.”
This verse addresses the issue of being married to an unbeliever. It emphasizes that if a believer is married to an unbeliever and the unbelieving spouse is willing to stay in the marriage, the believer should not divorce them. The verse explains that the believing spouse’s faith can have a positive influence on the unbelieving spouse and children.
It highlights the importance of unity in marriage and the significance of the believing spouse’s role in potentially leading their unbelieving partner to faith in Christ. The verse encourages believers to prioritize the preservation of their marriage while being a positive example of Christ’s love to their unbelieving spouse.
1 Corinthians 7:15
“But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart; a brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases. But God has called us to peace.”
This verse further elaborates on the situation when an unbelieving spouse decides to leave the marriage. It states that if the unbeliever chooses to depart, the believing spouse is not bound to stay in the marriage against their will. God calls believers to live in peace.
This verse recognizes that divorce may be inevitable in some cases where the unbeliever is adamant about leaving the marriage. It signifies that while preserving the marriage is ideal, there are circumstances where separation and divorce may be necessary, allowing the believer to live in peace and seek God’s guidance in moving forward.
Matthew 19:9
“And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced commits adultery.”
This verse speaks specifically about the act of divorce and remarriage. Jesus emphasizes that divorce, except in the case of sexual immorality, leads to adultery. It reinforces the sanctity and permanence of marriage.
The verse highlights the seriousness of divorce, stating that remarrying after divorcing without biblical grounds results in committing adultery. It stresses the importance of faithfulness, commitment, and honoring the marriage covenant.
1 Peter 3:1
“Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives.”
This verse specifically addresses wives who are married to unbelieving husbands. It encourages them to be submissive to their husbands and to demonstrate their faith through their actions rather than forcing their beliefs upon them.
The verse suggests that by living out their faith in a loving and respectful manner, wives may have a positive impact on their husbands’ spiritual journey. It emphasizes the power of a godly example and gentle persuasion to potentially lead the unbelieving spouse to Christ.
1 Corinthians 7:16
“For how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, O husband, whether you will save your wife?”
This verse highlights the uncertainty surrounding the salvation of an unbelieving spouse. It reminds believers that their role is to faithfully live out their own relationship with Christ and trust in God’s sovereignty for the salvation of their spouse.
The verse acknowledges that we cannot guarantee the salvation of our unbelieving partners through our own efforts but instead encourages believers to have faith in the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. It reminds us to focus on our own spiritual growth and relationship with God while entrusting the salvation of our spouse to His hands.
Malachi 2:16
“For the Lord God of Israel says that He hates divorce, for it covers one’s garment with violence,” says the Lord of hosts. “Therefore take heed to your spirit, that you do not deal treacherously.”
This verse portrays God’s perspective on divorce. It reveals that God hates divorce because it causes harm and disrupts the unity and trust within marriage.
The verse emphasizes the importance of taking care of one’s spirit and being faithful in marriage, warning against treacherous behavior that may lead to divorce. It serves as a reminder of the commitment and seriousness with which God views the marriage covenant.
Malachi 2:14
“Yet you say, ‘For what reason?’ Because the Lord has been witness between you and the wife of your youth, with whom you have dealt treacherously; yet she is your companion and your wife by covenant.”
This verse exposes the deceptive nature of divorce, particularly when it involves abandoning one’s spouse during their youth. It highlights the betrayal of breaking the covenant made before God.
The verse reminds us that marriage is not just a mere contract but a sacred covenant witnessed by the Lord. It calls attention to the faithfulness, commitment, and the lifelong partnership that marriage represents, discouraging treacherous behavior and promoting the preservation of the marriage relationship.
Matthew 5:31-32
“Furthermore, it has been said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.’ But I say to you that whoever divorces his wife for any reason except sexual immorality causes her to commit adultery; and whoever marries a woman who is divorced commits adultery.”
In this verse, Jesus addresses the issue of divorce and remarriage. He contrasts the commonly accepted practice of divorce with God’s standard. Jesus affirms that divorcing a spouse for any reason other than sexual immorality leads to adultery.
The verse emphasizes the seriousness and negative consequences of divorcing for reasons other than infidelity. It reinforces the sanctity and permanence of marriage, cautioning against the dissolution of the marital bond and subsequent remarriage.
Ephesians 5:22-23
“Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body.”
This verse highlights the biblical principle of submission within marriage. It instructs wives to submit to their husbands as the church submits to Christ.
The verse emphasizes the roles and responsibilities within marriage, with the husband being the head and the wife respecting his leadership. It reflects the sacrificial love of Christ for the church and encourages wives to honor their husbands’ authority.
Ephesians 5:25
“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.”
This verse addresses husbands and emphasizes the importance of love and sacrificial leadership within marriage. Husbands are called to demonstrate Christ-like love and selflessness towards their wives.
The verse encourages husbands to prioritize the well-being and spiritual growth of their wives, just as Christ prioritizes the needs and salvation of the church. It highlights the responsibility of husbands to be loving, compassionate, and protective towards their wives.
Mark 10:9
“Therefore what God has joined together, let no man separate.”
In this verse, Jesus reiterates the permanence of marriage as established by God. He emphasizes that once God unites a husband and wife in marriage, no one should seek to separate them.
The verse underscores the divine institution of marriage and discourages the dissolution of the marital bond. It serves as a reminder of the sacredness and lifelong commitment that marriage entails.
Genesis 2:24
“Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.”
This verse, spoken by God in the context of Adam and Eve’s creation, establishes the foundational principle of marriage. It emphasizes the leaving of one’s family and the establishment of a unique and inseparable bond with one’s spouse.
The verse portrays the unity and intimacy intended within marriage, highlighting the oneness that should exist between husband and wife. It establishes the basis for the commitment and exclusivity that marriage demands.
Proverbs 5:18-19
“Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice with the wife of your youth. As a loving deer and a graceful doe, let her breasts satisfy you at all times; and always be enraptured with her love.”
This verse celebrates the joy and blessing of marital love. It encourages husbands to find delight and satisfaction in the lifelong companionship of their wives.
The verse depicts a beautiful picture of marital intimacy and affection, urging husbands to cherish and be enraptured by their wives’ love. It emphasizes the importance of nurturing and cherishing the marital relationship throughout the years.
Proverbs 31:10-11
“Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies. The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain.”
This verse praises the value and character of a virtuous wife. It acknowledges the trust and confidence that a husband can have in his wife’s faithfulness and abilities.
The verse highlights the importance of trust and mutual respect within marriage. It portrays the virtuous wife as a priceless asset, emphasizing the significant contribution she makes to her husband’s life.
Proverbs 12:4
“An excellent wife is the crown of her husband, but she who causes shame is like rottenness in his bones.”
This verse emphasizes the impact a wife can have on her husband’s life. It portrays a virtuous and supportive wife as a source of honor and blessing to her husband.
The verse warns against the destructive influence of a wife who brings shame and dishonor, highlighting the importance of mutual respect, trust, and encouragement within the marriage relationship.
Proverbs 18:22
“He who finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor from the Lord.”
This verse acknowledges marriage as a gift and blessing from God. It portrays finding a wife as finding something good and receiving favor from the Lord.
The verse emphasizes the inherent value and importance of a godly spouse, recognizing the positive impact they can have on a person’s life. It encourages gratitude for the blessing of marriage and the favor bestowed by the Lord.
Malachi 2:15
“But did He not make them one, having a remnant of the Spirit? And why one? He seeks godly offspring. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously with the wife of his youth.”
This verse reflects God’s purpose in uniting husband and wife as one. It emphasizes that God desires godly offspring and warns against treacherous behavior within marriage.
The verse underscores the significance of a godly foundation in marriage and the responsibility of spouses to prioritize the spiritual well-being of their children. It encourages faithfulness and loyalty to one’s spouse, especially the wife of one’s youth.
Hebrews 13:4
“Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge.”
This verse upholds the sanctity and honor of marriage. It declares that marriage is to be respected and cherished, and the marital relationship should remain pure and undefiled.
The verse warns against sexual immorality and the destructive sins of fornication and adultery. It emphasizes that God will judge those who defile the sacredness of the marital covenant.
Colossians 3:19
“Husbands, love your wives and do not be bitter toward them.”
This verse specifically addresses husbands, instructing them to love their wives and to avoid bitterness towards them. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining love, kindness, and forgiveness within the marriage relationship.
The verse encourages husbands to emulate Christ-like love towards their wives, fostering an environment of mutual respect and affection. It highlights the significance of communication and addressing any conflicts or grievances with love and understanding.
Titus 2:4-5
“…that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.”
This verse addresses the role of younger women in marriage and family life. It encourages them to prioritize love towards their husbands and children and to exhibit godly character qualities.
The verse emphasizes the importance of a nurturing and harmonious home environment, with women being obedient to their husbands and following God’s design for the family. It stresses the impact of their behavior on God’s reputation and calls for the preservation of the integrity of the Word of God.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
“Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up. Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone? Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”
This verse speaks to the benefits and strength found in the union of two individuals in marriage. It presents the idea that two are better than one, as they can support and help one another in times of difficulty.
The verse highlights the importance of companionship and mutual assistance within marriage. It emphasizes the significance of unity and the strength that comes from a shared life. It also suggests the positive influence of a threefold cord, representing the inclusion of God as an inseparable part of the marital relationship.
Proverbs 19:14
“Houses and riches are an inheritance from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the Lord.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of a wise and discerning wife as a gift from the Lord. It contrasts the worldly possessions inherited from fathers with the invaluable blessing of a prudent wife.
The verse highlights that a wise and godly wife is a treasure and a source of wisdom, guidance, and support within the marriage. It encourages husbands to recognize and appreciate the divine provision of a virtuous and discerning spouse.