Simple Truths About Marriage & Divorce “So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.” Matthew 19:6

God’s Law from the Beginning The Genesis account (Genesis 2:21-24) –One man, one woman (one flesh, not to be separated, cf. Matthew 19:6) An Interpolation (Deuteronomy 24:1-4) –Divorce allowed for uncleanness –This was a change from the beginning Jesus’ Teaching (Matthew 19:1-9) –Only one exception (porneia) “fornication” –Moses’ law because of hard hearts –God’s Law for Marriage: “One man, one woman, for a lifetime, with one exception”

Romans 7:2-3 For the woman who has a husband is bound by the law to her husband as long as he lives. But if the husband dies, she is released from the law of her husband. 3 So then if, while her husband lives, she marries another man, she will be called an adulteress; but if her husband dies, she is free from that law, so that she is no adulteress, though she has married another man. (Law put positively, what God requires)

Matthew 5:31-32 Furthermore it has been said, “Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.” 32 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. Law put negatively (what happens if the law is disobeyed).

Any Interpretation that does Violence to Jesus’ Teaching Is not Sound Doctrine. Redefinition of Adultery –Adultery means the breaking of the marriage covenant, not the physical act of sex. The Pauline Privilege (cf. 1 Cor. 7:15) –“Not under bondage” means free to remarry –Gives a second exception (“unbeliever departs”) Alien Sinner Not Amenable –Baptism “washes away” other spouses.

Conclusion God Hates Divorce! “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.” Malachi 2:16