Is Remarriage After Divorce Always Considered Adultery? Understanding the Biblical Perspective

The question of whether remarriage after divorce is always considered adultery can create confusion among Christians. Jesus clearly states in Luke 16:18 that remarriage after divorce is adultery. However, Paul’s letters offer a different view, allowing remarriage in some circumstances, like in 1 Corinthians 7:15. This post aims to clarify these biblical perspectives and help you understand what Scripture really says about remarriage and adultery.

Jesus' Teaching on Remarriage and Adultery

Understanding Jesus’ teaching on remarriage and adultery requires us to look carefully at the biblical texts and their original meanings. When Jesus says in Luke 16:18 that remarriage after divorce is adultery, He’s expressing a strong view on the sacredness and permanence of marriage. But this statement exists in a specific cultural and historical setting that shapes its meaning. Let’s explore that context, compare it with other gospel accounts, and see how Christian traditions interpret these challenging words.

Context of Jesus’ Words in Luke 16:18

In Luke 16:18, Jesus declares, “Everyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery, and he who marries a woman divorced from her husband commits adultery.” The Greek word for adultery here is moicheuo, which refers to sexual unfaithfulness, usually involving someone married. The phrase carries a serious legal and moral weight in first-century Jewish culture.

During that time, Jewish marriage laws focused on the lifelong covenant between husband and wife. Divorce was allowed under certain conditions in Jewish law, especially for reasons like unchastity (Deuteronomy 24:1), but the law was complex and often debated. Jesus' statement reflects His emphasis on the original intention of marriage—permanent unity—and acts as a corrective against loose interpretations that allowed easy divorce.

The phrase "marries another" does not simply point to any second marriage, but to marrying someone while the first spouse is still alive, thereby breaking the marriage covenant. This perspective highlights the sanctity of marriage as a lifelong commitment, one not to be severed lightly or without serious cause.

Comparing Jesus’ Teachings in Matthew and Mark

To understand Jesus’ teaching fully, it’s helpful to examine parallel passages like Matthew 19:9 and Mark 10:11-12. In Matthew 19:9, Jesus says, “And I say to you: whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery.” This passage introduces an exception not found explicitly in Luke 16:18 or Mark’s account.

Mark 10:11-12 echoes Luke closely: “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her, and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.” This repetition emphasizes the seriousness of divorce and remarriage without exception.

The key difference appears in Matthew’s gospel, where "sexual immorality" acts as a possible ground to avoid adultery in remarriage. This suggests Jesus was highlighting the ideal permanence of marriage while providing some concession for brokenness caused by unfaithfulness.

Common Interpretations Among Christians

Christian traditions vary quite a bit in their interpretation of Jesus’ words on remarriage and adultery. Here are some common perspectives:

• Conservative View: Many conservative churches hold that remarriage after divorce is adultery except in the case of sexual immorality, taking Matthew 19:9 as the controlling text. They emphasize lifelong marriage and advocate reconciliation when possible.

• Moderate View: Some denominations accept remarriage after divorce if the divorce was biblical, such as abandonment or abuse. They also consider Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 7:15, where Paul allows believers to separate if an unbelieving spouse leaves.

• Liberal View: Other Christians may interpret these passages more flexibly, seeing Jesus’ teachings as ideal standards rather than absolute laws. They focus on God's grace and redemption for broken relationships.

Ultimately, the question Is remarriage after divorce always considered adultery depends on how one balances Jesus’ strict warnings, the cultural context of his time, and the pastoral allowances Paul provides. Each position reflects a sincere effort to remain faithful to Scripture while addressing real human struggles in marriage.

For those seeking deeper biblical insights on marriage, divorce, and remarriage, exploring resources at a trusted Christian book store could provide valuable guidance grounded in Scripture and tradition.

Paul’s Teachings on Divorce and Remarriage

Paul’s letters offer a more practical and pastoral perspective on marriage, divorce, and remarriage than Jesus’ direct and strict statements in the Gospels. While Jesus underscores the permanence of marriage and calls remarriage after divorce adultery, Paul acknowledges the complexity of human relationships, especially when one spouse does not share the faith. Exploring Paul’s teachings helps us see why some situations allow for remarriage without it being labeled as adultery. Let’s look deeper into key passages in 1 Corinthians and Romans to understand Paul's view.

The Principle of Not Being Bound in 1 Corinthians 7:15

In 1 Corinthians 7:15, Paul writes, “But if the unbelieving depart, let them depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases.” This verse is crucial for understanding when remarriage might be permissible.

Paul is addressing marriages where one partner is a believer and the other is not. If the unbelieving spouse chooses to leave the marriage, Paul says the believer is “not bound.” This phrase means the believer is no longer obligated to stay married to someone who refuses the union. In practical terms, this releases the believer from the commitment of the marriage covenant since it has been effectively broken by the departure of the unbelieving partner.

The implication for remarriage is significant. Unlike Jesus' strict statement in Luke 16:18, Paul allows for the possibility that a believer who has been abandoned is free to remarry. This is not a loophole but a compassionate response to difficult circumstances where the marriage cannot continue on biblical or relational grounds.

This teaching highlights:

• Freedom from marital bondage when abandonment occurs.

• Recognition that faith disparities complicate marital commitments.

• The reality that not all marriages are resolvable, and sometimes separation is inevitable.

This nuanced perspective suggests that while marriage is sacred and ideally lifelong, God also provides grace when abandonment disrupts the relationship.

Other Pauline Passages Addressing Marriage and Divorce

Paul’s letters contain other passages that deepen our understanding of his stance on marriage and divorce beyond 1 Corinthians 7:15.

1. Romans 7:2-3 – Paul uses marriage as a metaphor to explain spiritual law. He notes that a woman is bound to her husband “as long as he lives,” but if he dies, she is free to marry another without being called an adulteress. This shows a connection between the validity of marriage and the ongoing covenant, emphasizing that death ends the marriage bond.

2. 1 Corinthians 7:10-11 – Here Paul echoes Jesus’ teaching by instructing believers not to divorce. However, he also adds that if separation does happen, the person should remain unmarried or reconcile. While Paul promotes reconciliation, he acknowledges separation, again showing pastoral sensitivity to real-life struggles.

Together, these passages reflect Paul’s effort to balance ideal theology with practical reality. He upholds the sacredness of marriage but provides exceptions and guidance when relationships fail due to abandonment or death.

Paul’s approach offers a path for Christians wrestling with the question Is remarriage after divorce always considered adultery? He clarifies that while marriage is designed to be lifelong, there are situations where God frees believers from their marital bonds, opening the way for remarriage without guilt or accusation.

For deeper biblical insights on marriage, divorce, and remarriage, readers can explore trusted resources, like those found at the Christian book store. They offer books and study guides that unpack these complex topics with pastoral wisdom and scriptural clarity.

You may also find helpful discussions on the contrast between Jesus and Paul’s teachings in this article on Jesus and Paul On Divorce and Remarriage.

Another valuable resource is a detailed sermon explaining Paul’s perspective on separation and remarriage, available at Marriage, Divorce, and Remarriage (1 Corinthians 7:10-16).

These resources provide sound, biblically grounded guidance that respects both the ideal of lifelong marriage and the reality of broken relationships.

Reconciling the Differences Between Jesus and Paul

Understanding the seemingly conflicting teachings of Jesus and Paul on remarriage after divorce requires us to explore the context behind their words and how their messages apply to us today. Jesus’ statement in Luke 16:18 appears absolute, condemning remarriage after divorce as adultery. Meanwhile, Paul’s letters, especially 1 Corinthians 7:15, allow for remarriage under certain conditions, like abandonment by an unbelieving spouse.

This tension can puzzle believers seeking clear guidance. By considering the historical and practical contexts behind their teachings and reflecting on how churches today approach remarriage, we can gain a fuller picture of biblical instruction on this sensitive issue.

Contextual and Practical Considerations

Jesus spoke during a time when Jewish society held marriage as a sacred, nearly unbreakable covenant. His message reflected an ideal — the lifelong commitment God intends for marriage. Divorce was permitted under Jewish law but was often abused or trivialized. Jesus aimed to restore marriage’s sacredness by warning against casual divorce and remarriage, emphasizing faithfulness and commitment.

Paul’s letters, written decades later to specific churches facing real-life challenges, reveal a pastoral approach. Many early Christians were converts in mixed-faith marriages, which posed unique difficulties. Paul recognized that an unbelieving spouse who chooses to leave breaks the marriage bond realistically. His instruction in 1 Corinthians 7:15, freeing the believer “not under bondage,” shows compassion and acknowledges the complexities of faith, cultural tension, and hardship.

This difference doesn’t mean contradiction but rather reflects two layers in biblical teaching:

• Jesus’ focus: The ideal standard of marriage as permanent and exclusive.

• Paul’s focus: Practical guidance for believers dealing with broken or abusive circumstances.

When Jesus calls remarriage after divorce adultery, He states the moral ideal for all believers. Paul, meanwhile, addresses exceptions where a believer is free from marital obligations after abandonment. Understanding this helps us see their teachings as complementary — the ideal upheld alongside mercy for real-life trials.

Implications for Today’s Christian Life and Church Practice

Modern churches wrestle with how to apply these biblical teachings while ministering to individuals facing divorce and remarriage. Most recognize the seriousness of marriage vows but also the brokenness and pain involved when marriages fail.

Here’s how many contemporary churches handle the tension between Jesus’ strict view and Paul’s exceptions:

1. Emphasize reconciliation and counseling — Encouraging couples to seek restoration where possible, in line with Jesus’ ideal.

2. Allow remarriage under biblical grounds — Many churches permit remarriage in cases of sexual immorality (as Matthew 19:9 implies), abandonment by an unbelieving spouse, or abuse, reflecting Paul’s practical guidance.

3. Pastoral sensitivity — Leaders may assess each situation individually, offering grace and support instead of blanket judgments that neglect complex realities.

4. Teaching the sacredness of marriage — Preventing casual dismissal of vows while showing understanding that God’s grace covers broken situations.

This balanced approach helps churches uphold biblical values without alienating those who have experienced divorce. It also reminds believers that while marriage promises permanence, God provides grace and freedom when abandonment or serious sin disrupts that union.

For those wanting clearer biblical teaching and support on remarriage, exploring trusted resources at a reputable Christian book store can offer valuable insight and guidance to navigate these difficult questions.

This nuanced understanding leads individuals and churches to embrace both the holiness of marriage and the compassion God extends to those walking through broken relationships. It helps answer Is remarriage after divorce always considered adultery? with a view that honors Scripture’s fullness — faithfully holding the ideal marriage standard while recognizing God’s mercy in real-life struggles.

Broader Biblical Principles on Marriage, Divorce, and Adultery

To understand if remarriage after divorce is always considered adultery, it's important to look beyond Jesus’ and Paul’s direct teachings and explore the wider biblical principles. The whole Bible speaks about marriage, divorce, and faithfulness, starting in the Old Testament and carrying through into the New. These broader principles illuminate God's original design for marriage, the seriousness of adultery, and the grace available for those who have experienced broken relationships. Let’s examine these foundational truths.

Old Testament Foundations for Marriage and Divorce

The Old Testament sets the stage for how God views marriage and divorce. From the very beginning, marriage is portrayed as a sacred, God-ordained union designed for partnership and faithfulness.

• Genesis 2:24 states, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” This verse highlights the deep unity marriage was meant to create—more than just a social contract, it’s a bond merging two lives into one.

• Malachi 2:16 reveals God’s displeasure with divorce: “For the Lord God of Israel says that He hates divorce.” Here, divorce is not casually viewed but is seen as breaking a covenant that God Himself established. This underscores the seriousness with which God regards marriage.

God’s design is clear: marriage is meant to be a lifelong, faithful commitment. Divorce is not part of the original plan but a concession because of human brokenness. The Old Testament also links marital unfaithfulness—adultery—to the breaking of this sacred trust.

These scriptures set a firm foundation reminding us that marriage is a solemn covenant before God, meant to reflect His faithfulness through lifelong union.

Adultery in the Biblical Context

Biblical adultery goes beyond simply breaking a law; it’s about violating the trust and covenant commitment between spouses.

In scripture, adultery (moicheia in Greek, na’aph in Hebrew) refers explicitly to sexual unfaithfulness involving a married person. It breaks the "one flesh" bond and damages the integrity of the marriage covenant.

Jesus' stern words in Luke 16:18—“Everyone who divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery”—link remarriage after divorce directly with adultery. This is because, in Jesus’ view, the marriage bond remains intact unless God’s law releases it (e.g., through death or specific exceptions mentioned in other passages). Marrying again while the first spouse lives, without lawful grounds, is seen as entering into a relationship outside of God's covenant.

The tension arises because while Jesus emphasizes the permanence of marriage and the sinfulness of remarriage in many cases, Paul offers pastoral exceptions, addressing situations where marital faithfulness is shattered by abandonment or death.

Understanding biblical adultery helps clarify why remarriage is not automatically lawful after divorce. It centers on whether the marriage covenant is still seen as binding before God, rather than assuming all divorces dissolve the spiritual bond.

God’s Grace and Restoration for the Divorced and Remarried

While the Bible holds marriage in high regard and identifies remarriage after divorce as adultery in certain cases, it also portrays God as a God of grace. Those who have experienced divorce and remarriage are not beyond His mercy or restoration.

• Psalm 34:18 assures us, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” Divorce often brings deep pain and brokenness. God’s heart is with those suffering from relational wounds.

• The Apostle Paul encourages living in peace and restoration, acknowledging the complexity of human relationships and offering freedom from marital bonds where abandonment occurs (1 Corinthians 7:15). This shows God’s compassion for difficult and real-life situations.

• Churches are called to extend grace and support, helping divorced and remarried believers find healing and spiritual growth rather than condemnation.

God’s grace means no one is defined by their past or their failed relationships. His restoration is available, and believers can live faithfully, honoring God’s design in their current circumstances.

For those wrestling with the difficult realities of marriage, divorce, and remarriage, trusted Christian resources offer sound guidance grounded in Scripture, encouraging both faithfulness to God’s standards and compassion for brokenness.

This section builds on the discussion of Jesus and Paul by grounding readers in the biblical truths about marriage's sacredness, the weight of adultery, and God’s grace toward those who have experienced divorce and remarriage. These broader principles help answer Is remarriage after divorce always considered adultery by providing a fuller picture of what the Bible teaches throughout its pages.

Conclusion: Biblical Stance on Remarriage After Divorce and Adultery

The question Is remarriage after divorce always considered adultery? cannot be answered with a simple yes or no when we consider the entire biblical narrative. Both Jesus and Paul teach about the seriousness of marriage as a covenant, but they also address complex real-life situations with different emphasis. This section summarizes their teachings and highlights the importance of context, scripture diversity, and grace.

Marriage as a Sacred Covenant

Jesus presents marriage as a lifelong, unbreakable bond. When He states in Luke 16:18 that remarriage after divorce is adultery, He underscores the sacredness of marriage and warns against breaking that covenant lightly. His teaching reflects God’s original design for unity and faithfulness—marriage is meant to be permanent and exclusive unless a valid biblical reason breaks the bond.

This is why Jesus’ words should be taken seriously: remarriage while the first spouse lives, and without biblically justifiable grounds, is seen as entering into adultery because the first marriage remains binding before God.

Paul’s Pastoral Exceptions

Paul’s writings offer important exceptions that help Christians apply Jesus’ teaching in real life. In 1 Corinthians 7:15, Paul allows remarriage when an unbelieving spouse leaves the marriage. This “not under bondage” principle recognizes that abandonment breaks the marriage relationship in a way that frees the believing spouse.

Paul’s letters encourage reconciliation but also acknowledge situations where the marriage covenant is effectively dissolved, such as death or abandonment, allowing for remarriage without it being adultery.

Balancing Scripture and Grace

Understanding the biblical stance on remarriage after divorce requires balancing Jesus’ ideal with Paul’s pastoral insight. The answer to whether remarriage always amounts to adultery depends on factors like:

• The reason for the divorce

• Whether the marriage covenant is still valid in God’s eyes

• Applying grace and compassion to broken, complex situations

This balance prevents rigid legalism and opens space for healing and restoration without dismissing the seriousness of marriage vows.

A Practical Framework for Believers

Here’s a simple way to think about remarriage and adultery in light of Scripture:

1. Marriage is meant to be permanent. Divorce and remarriage are serious matters that require thoughtful biblical reflection.

2. Remarriage is adultery unless a biblical exception applies. Examples include divorce caused by sexual immorality or abandonment, as supported by Jesus and Paul.

3. Each case requires prayerful discernment and pastoral care. The church’s role is to uphold God’s design while offering forgiveness and guidance to the brokenhearted.

4. God’s grace is available for all. No past failure or broken relationship is beyond His mercy.

By approaching remarriage after divorce with these truths, Christians can better navigate the complex emotions and spiritual questions involved.

For more in-depth study, trusted resources on marriage, divorce, and remarriage are available at a well-curated Christian book store to guide you through Scripture’s full teaching on these topics.

Further reading on what the Bible teaches about divorce and remarriage can be found at The Gospel Coalition’s article on Divorce and Remarriage, which explores both Jesus' and Paul’s perspectives with clarity and pastoral sensitivity.

This understanding invites believers to uphold the holiness of marriage while extending grace to those walking through broken relationships, answering the question Is remarriage after divorce always considered adultery? with a balanced, scripture-rooted approach that honors both truth and mercy.