1. Divorce is rampant in our society
Divorce is rampant in our society. The will of the King of kings must guide or thinking, teaching, practice, and counsel on this important issue. Jesus said that man does not have the right to “put asunder” a marriage, except for the cause of fornication.
Marriage and Divorce

2. The Challenge Before Us
Divorce continues to be rampant in America.

4. The Challenge Before Us
Divorce continues to be rampant in America.
Doctrinal disagreement is not helping to stem the tide! Differences on the issue have resulted in more divorces, more church divisions, and more questions regarding fellowship.
We must stand for truth! (1 Corinthians 1:27; Proverbs 23:23)
The status quo is unacceptable.
We must renew our minds! (Ephesians 4:23, 2).
We must seek and speak the truth in a spirit of humility, gentleness and longsuffering.

5. Important Principles
Marriage is a life-long commitment (Romans 7:2; 1 Corinthians 7:39; Matthew 19:6; Malachi 2:16).
God allows only one exception to His no divorce law (Matthew 19:1-12; 5:31-32; Mark 10:1-12).
Everyone is subject to Christ’s marriage law (Matthew 19:1-12; 5:31-32; Mark 10:1-12; Luke 16:18).
Baptism does not wash away unrepentant adultery (Acts 2:38).
Repentance demands that sinful relationships cease (Ezra 10; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11).

6. What Constitutes Marriage?
A covenant (Malachi 2:14)
A public proclamation or ceremony which accords with civil law and societal norms (Matt. 22:1-10; 25:1-10; Luke 14:8; John 2:1-2)
A joining of husband and wife (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:5; Ephesians 5:31)
Becoming one flesh (Genesis 2:24; 1 Cor. 6:16; Malachi 2:15)

7. What Constitutes Divorce (putting away)?
Putting away is an undoing of that which constituted the marriage (Matthew 19:4- 6, 9, cf. 1 Corinthians 7:27 )
Putting away is an action, not merely a decision
Putting away is a unilateral action
Putting away involves legal action
The one who is put away commits adultery when he or she remarries

8. Summary of Basic Truths on Marriage & Divorce
God's desire is that marriage be a life-long commitment.
The general rule is that to divorce and remarry is to commit the sin of adultery (Luke 16:18).
The one who divorces commits adultery if he or she remarries (Mark 10:11-12)
The one who is divorced (put away) commits adultery if he or she remarries (Matthew 5:32)
God has provided one exception to this rule, and it must be regarded as just that -- AN EXCEPTION!!! (Matthew 19:9).