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Mistaken on Marriage and Divorce
Vol. 6, No. 4 — Apr 2004
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In my life society has moved from supporting the code of “one man for one woman for life” to “divorce and remarriage is an individual choice of no moral significance.” This shift means Christians live in an entirely different climate. Divorce for any cause and remarriage on a whim is normative with many of the most prominent people. Outside a few religious groups, little is said in opposition to it. Both secular and religious literature supports divorce and remarriage as preferable to being “unhappy.” Increasing numbers of Christians are accepting worldly practices. It is imperative that we wrestle with and obey what the Scriptures say concerning marriage. Obedience to God’s law of marriage is as important as any other. Preliminary Considerations God ordained the institution of marriage (Genesis 2:18-25). This passage reveals the triad on which all families rest. Ultimately it is the foundation upon which civilization stands. Permanence is the first pillar grounding marriage, “therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother…” This does not refer to geographical leaving. It does not mean a complete mental or emotional separation because the duty to “honor” father and mother is permanent (Exodus 20:12). It simply establishes the marriage bond as a permanent, first priority relationship. Acceptance of the law of permanence is the basis for the second pillar, which is commitment, “and shall cleave unto his wife…” God placed permanence of marriage as the basis for commitment. Men would reverse the order. Studies have confirmed the Lord’s wisdom. When