The topic of divorce is sensitive, and the Bible has clear teachings on it. While it acknowledges the challenges of marriage, it also emphasizes the sacredness of the marital bond. Putting away your wife, or divorce, is permitted under certain conditions but not encouraged.
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What Does The Bible Say About Putting Away Your Wife
Matthew 5:31-32
“It was also said, “Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.” But I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of sexual immorality, makes her commit adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.”
In these verses, Jesus emphasizes the seriousness of divorce. He acknowledges that divorce was permitted under certain circumstances in the Mosaic Law but emphasizes that divorce should not be taken lightly. Divorcing a spouse without just cause and marrying another person would lead to committing adultery.
This verse reminds us of the importance of commitment and fidelity in marriage. It encourages couples to work through their differences and commit to their vows instead of seeking an easy way out through divorce.
1 Corinthians 7:10-11
“To the married I give this charge (not I, but the Lord): the wife should not separate from her husband (but if she does, she should remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband), and the husband should not divorce his wife.”
Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, reiterates the teachings of Jesus regarding divorce. He advises married couples against separating and encourages them to seek reconciliation if issues arise. If separation does occur, Paul advises remaining unmarried or reconciling with one’s spouse, emphasizing the importance of preserving the marital bond.
This verse reminds us that marriage is a lifelong commitment and encourages spouses to actively work through their differences rather than resorting to divorce. It highlights the importance of forgiveness, reconciliation, and seeking resolution in troubled marriages.
Malachi 2:16
“For the man who does not love his wife but divorces her, says the Lord, the God of Israel, covers his garment with violence, says the Lord of hosts. So guard yourselves in your spirit, and do not be faithless.”
In this verse, God expresses His disapproval of husbands who do not love or mistreat their wives and divorces them without just cause. God emphasizes the importance of love and faithfulness within the marital relationship and warns against violence and faithlessness.
This verse serves as a reminder that marriage is a covenant governed by love, respect, and faithfulness. It speaks against any form of abuse or mistreatment within marriages and encourages spouses to treat each other with kindness and honor.
Mark 10:11-12
“And he said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her, and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.”
In these verses, Jesus addresses the issue of divorce once again, emphasizing that remarriage after divorce constitutes adultery. He equally applies this standard to both husbands and wives, making it clear that divorce should not be taken lightly or for the sake of pursuing another relationship.
This verse reminds us of the sanctity of marriage and the importance of honoring our vows. It challenges us to consider the consequences of divorce and remarriage, highlighting the need for commitment and fidelity within the marital relationship.
Matthew 19:6
“So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”
These words of Jesus reiterate the divine intention behind marriage – that two individuals become one flesh in a lifelong union. Jesus emphasizes that divorce should not be permitted or pursued by humans because marriage is a bond created by God.
This verse invites couples to recognize the sacredness of marriage and the importance of preserving the unity and commitment that comes with it. It prompts spouses to seek ways to strengthen and nurture their marriage rather than seeking separation or divorce.
1 Corinthians 7:3-5
“The husband should give to his wife her conjugal rights, and likewise the wife to her husband. For the wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. Likewise, the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. Do not deprive one another, except perhaps by agreement for a limited time, that you may devote yourselves to prayer; but then come together again, so that Satan may not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.”
In these verses, Paul addresses the importance of sexual intimacy within the marriage relationship. He instructs husbands and wives to fulfill each other’s sexual needs and to maintain a healthy and intimate connection. Paul also advises against withholding sexual intimacy, except by mutual agreement and for the purpose of focused prayer.
This verse affirms the significance of physical intimacy in marriage as a means of building unity, trust, and intimacy. It encourages couples to prioritize meeting each other’s needs and to be mindful of the impact that neglecting this aspect of the relationship can have on temptation and self-control.
Ephesians 5:25
“Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
In this verse, Paul addresses husbands specifically, urging them to love their wives sacrificially, just as Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for her. This kind of love involves selflessness, nurturing, protecting, and prioritizing the well-being of one’s spouse.
This verse highlights the responsibility of husbands to love their wives genuinely and unconditionally. It challenges husbands to emulate Christ’s love for His people in their relationships, fostering an atmosphere of love, care, and support within their marriages.
1 Peter 3:7
“Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.”
In this verse, Peter addresses husbands, urging them to regard their wives with understanding and honor. He recognizes the equality of husbands and wives as heirs of God’s grace and emphasizes the need for mutual respect and consideration in the marital relationship.
This verse reinforces the importance of treating one’s spouse with dignity and respect. It reminds husbands that how they treat their wives has an impact on their relationship with God and encourages them to cultivate an atmosphere of love, honor, and understanding at home.
1 Peter 3:1-2
“Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives when they see your respectful and pure conduct.”
In these verses, Peter addresses wives, urging them to submit to their husbands. However, this submission is not to be seen as a form of subjugation or inferiority, but as a reflection of the wife’s respect and love for her husband.
This verse encourages wives to influence their husbands through their behavior rather than resorting to arguments or manipulation. It highlights the power of a respectful and honorable attitude in nurturing a healthy and loving relationship within marriage.
Genesis 2:24
“Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.”
In this verse, God establishes His original design for marriage, emphasizing the concept of leaving one’s parents and being united with one’s spouse. God’s intention is for husbands and wives to become one entity, fully committed and devoted to each other.
This verse serves as a reminder that marriage involves the formation of a new family and necessitates prioritizing the spouse’s needs and well-being above all others. It encourages couples to build a strong foundation of emotional and spiritual unity in their marriage.
Proverbs 31:10
“An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.”
In this verse, the writer extols the virtues of a good wife, highlighting her value and worth. The verse emphasizes that a wife of noble character is a rare and precious find.
This verse affirms the importance of recognizing and cherishing the qualities and contributions of a loving and virtuous wife. It encourages husbands to express appreciation and gratitude for their wives, fostering mutual love and respect within the marital relationship.
Proverbs 12:4
“A wife of noble character is her husband’s crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones.”
These words from Proverbs highlight the significant impact a wife can have on her husband’s life. A wife of noble character brings honor, blessing, and joy to her husband’s life, while a disgraceful wife causes pain and decay.
This verse emphasizes the importance of cultivating godly character and integrity as a wife. It encourages wives to strive for excellence in their attitudes, actions, and speech, contributing positively to their husbands’ lives and marriages.
Colossians 3:19
“Husbands, love your wives, and do not be harsh with them.”
Paul, in his letter to the Colossians, instructs husbands to love their wives and avoid being harsh or unkind towards them. This command highlights the importance of treating one’s spouse with gentleness, understanding, and compassion.
This verse reminds husbands of their responsibility to create an atmosphere of love, respect, and support within their marriages. It challenges them to be considerate of their wives’ feelings and treat them with kindness, fostering a healthy and nurturing relationship.
1 Corinthians 7:12-13
“To the rest I say (I, not the Lord) that if any brother has a wife who is an unbeliever, and she consents to live with him, he should not divorce her. If any woman has a husband who is an unbeliever, and he consents to live with her, she should not divorce him.”
Paul addresses the issue of mixed-faith marriages in these verses. He advises believers to remain in their marriages if their unbelieving spouses are willing to continue the relationship, rather than seeking divorce.
This verse encourages believers in mixed-faith marriages to demonstrate godly character and love to their unbelieving spouses. It reminds them of the potential impact of their Christlike conduct in drawing their partners closer to God.
Proverbs 18:22
“He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD.”
In this verse, the writer highlights the blessing and favor that comes with finding a good wife. It emphasizes the value and significance of a faithful and loving life partner.
This verse encourages husbands to recognize and appreciate the blessings that their wives bring into their lives. It prompts them to express gratitude and treat their wives with honor, fostering a relationship of mutual love and respect.
Proverbs 19:14
“House and wealth are inherited from fathers, but a prudent wife is from the LORD.”
This verse draws a distinction between material possessions that are inherited and a wise and prudent wife, who is a gift from the Lord. It highlights the importance of having a godly, wise, and discerning wife.
This verse encourages husbands to seek a wife marked by wisdom, prudence, and godliness. It reminds them that such qualities are far more valuable and beneficial in a marriage than mere material possessions.
Proverbs 21:9
“It is better to live in a corner of the housetop than in a house shared with a quarrelsome wife.”
This verse warns against the difficulties and strife that arise from living with a contentious and argumentative wife. It emphasizes the value of peace, harmony, and unity within the marital relationship.
While this verse specifically addresses husbands, it serves as a reminder to all spouses to strive for a peaceful and loving atmosphere within their marriages. It encourages all partners to work towards resolving conflicts amicably and to cultivate mutual respect and understanding in their relationships.
Proverbs 31:11
“The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.”
This verse speaks of the trust and confidence a husband has in his wife. It emphasizes the security and prosperity that come from having a capable and trustworthy wife.
This verse encourages wives to be women of integrity and reliability, worthy of their husbands’ trust. It affirms the importance of establishing a strong foundation of trust within a marriage, fostering a deep sense of security and mutual support.
Ephesians 5:22
“Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord.”
In this verse, Paul instructs wives to willingly submit to their husbands’ leadership, drawing parallels between a wife’s submission to her husband and the Church’s submission to Christ.
This verse is often misconstrued and misused to establish a hierarchy within marriage. However, the true essence of submission lies in mutual love, respect, and cooperation between spouses. It is not meant to imply inferiority or dominance but rather a willingness to work together in unity.
Ecclesiastes 9:9
“Enjoy life with the wife whom you love, all the days of your vain life that he has given you under the sun, because that is your portion in life and in your toil at which you toil under the sun.”
This verse encourages husbands to find joy and satisfaction in their marital relationship. It acknowledges the importance of cherishing and enjoying life with one’s beloved spouse.
This verse serves as a reminder for husbands to prioritize their relationship with their wives and to cultivate a sense of appreciation and contentment. It encourages them to invest time, effort, and love into building a thriving and fulfilling marriage.
Proverbs 5:18-19
“Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice in the wife of your youth, a lovely deer, a graceful doe. Let her breasts fill you at all times with delight; be intoxicated always in her love.”
This passage celebrates the joy and physical intimacy found within marriage. It paints a poetic picture of the passion and delight that husbands can experience in their relationship with their wives.
This verse encourages husbands to nurture the physical aspect of their marriage, experiencing joy, satisfaction, and happiness in the love and intimacy shared with their wife. It promotes a healthy and fulfilling sexual relationship within the boundaries of marriage.
Proverbs 31:28-29
“Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: ‘Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.'”
This verse extols the virtues of a godly wife and mother. It emphasizes the appreciation and praise that should be expressed by both the husband and children towards a wife and mother who embodies excellence.
This verse encourages husbands to recognize and honor their wives for their dedication, hard work, and selflessness in caring for their family. It calls for a culture of gratitude and affirmation within the home, fostering mutual love and respect.
1 Timothy 5:8
“But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”
In this verse, Paul emphasizes the responsibility that husbands have to provide for their families, ensuring their physical and material needs are met.
This verse encourages husbands to take their role as providers seriously and to prioritize the welfare and well-being of their households. It encourages them to be diligent and responsible in meeting the needs of their wives and children.