Marriage #4 Reason to divorce?

For our next look at marriage I want us to see two things. The only reason given by Christ for a divorce and that marriage is to be taken very seriously. Be sure to read all of this devotion before jumping to any conclusions!



Matthew 5:27-32



Adultery in the Heart

27 “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28 But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you; for it is more profitable for you that one of your members perish, than for your whole body to be cast into hell.

Marriage Is Sacred and Binding

31 “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.



Ok what do we see in these verses? First God's Word says we are not to commit adultery. That is easy to understand. Don't cheat on your spouse. But these verses take it even further. If you look at someone with the thoughts in your heart that you would like to see her/him naked or have sex with her/him is wrong. This is called lust. The Word says this is committing adultery also! Wow! This is a battle my friends. We must be on guard at all times. It is so tough today as the sexual agenda is pushed to the limit in all areas of life. Even at church! I am shocked at how some dress to come and worship! The Word tells us to take this very seriously and do what even it takes to keep from sinning! Evaluate your life right now...what do you need to do to honor God, your spouse, and your self from committing adultery.



Next we see the only reason given by Christ for divorce. Sexual immorality! That is it. Even with sexual immorality, we must be very careful to try and work things out and forgive. Christ has forgiven our sin and expects us to forgive others. Don't forget that point! God's Word says what God has brought together man should not separate referring to marriage. Let me also say God has given us a brain for a reason. If someone is being abused physically, emotionally, or verbally and the offender will not get help then one can not stay in that situation. Also if children are being abused, we must get them to safety!



Lastly, if we divorce for any other reason than sexual immorality, then remarry we commit adultery and cause our original spouse to do the same. Think about that for a moment and how many have committed adultery according to the Word of God! God is very clear in His Word about this, let us not take it lightly!



Tom