Marriage & The Seared Conscience

Marriage, Remarriage, and Human Needs

Introduction

The concept of a seared conscience, as revealed in the Bible, implies a state of moral insensitivity or a distorted moral compass. In this essay, we will explore the implications of a seared conscience in relation to the prohibition of marriage as mentioned in 1 Timothy 4:2, and how it refers to remarriage.

We will argue that a seared conscience can lead individuals to perceive remarriage as an extra indulgence that needs to be avoided rather than recognizing it as a real, natural human need. One that needs to be met in almost the totality of people in this life, as highlighted by God’s declaration when He said, “It is not good for a man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18) and the apostle Paul’s assertion that “it is better to marry than to burn” (1 Corinthians 7:9).

We will also examine the adverse consequences that can arise when this genuine human need for companionship and intimacy, as recognized in the Bible, is not met, and why, for these same reasons analyzed biblically and philosophically, remarriage is permitted and no longer considered adultery after repentance and God’s forgiveness have mediated.

I. Understanding the Seared Conscience

A. Definition and Implications

A seared conscience refers to a state of moral insensitivity where an individual’s ethical judgment is impaired or distorted. In this state of insensitivity, one may have difficulty discerning right from wrong or permitted from non-permitted, disregarding moral values and human needs.

B. Prohibition of Marriage

In 1 Timothy 4:2, the apostle Paul warns of those who advocate for the prohibition of marriage, suggesting that this perspective may stem from a seared conscience. This prohibition in the church can extend to “remarriage”, which is the marriage that follows a divorce.

II. Remarriage as a Real Natural Human Need

A. God’s Declaration

In Genesis 2:18, God declared, “It is not good for man to be alone.” This divine recognition underscores the importance of companionship and intimacy in the human experience. It clearly suggests that companionship is a genuine human need.

Even though God’s original intention of this declaration is to be fulfilled with the same spouse for life, the reality in a fallen world is that when a divorce, unfortunately occurs, whether justified or unjustified, that natural human need does not disappear nor does it diminish; it is always there.

This reality advocates for God’s mercy (same as in Matthew 12:1–8 and James 2:13) so that it can be resolved through remarriage mediating repentance and forgiveness from God, not through the merciless sacrificial imposition of a celibate life, as only a seared conscience can demand. An imposition that almost no man in the world can fulfill.

B. Apostle Paul’s Counsel

For the same reason mentioned above, the apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 7:9, acknowledges the existence of human sexual needs and advises that “it is better to marry than to burn.” This counsel reinforces the idea that marriage and companionship fulfill real, natural human needs. As it has been recognized by God Himself since the beginning.

Again, it’s a natural human need that does not disappear or diminish with divorce, whether justified or unjustified. A human need that advocates mercy so that in a falling world it can be resolved in remarriage through repentance and God’s forgiveness. Nobody more than the church needs to learn, understand, and accept this reality. The church cannot act with a seared conscience (1 Timothy 4:2), condemning those justified by Christ who are among the people of God (Matthew 12:7).

III. Consequences of Neglecting Genuine Human Needs

A. Emotional and Psychological Impact

Neglecting the genuine human need for companionship and intimacy can lead to profound emotional and psychological consequences. Loneliness, depression, and a sense of isolation can result from a lack of meaningful human connection. That is why God established that “IT IS NOT GOOD” for man to be alone. Are those words difficult to understand? Only for a seared conscience.

B. Impact on Well-Being

The absence of companionship can negatively impact an individual’s overall well-being. The stress and emotional turmoil caused by isolation can contribute to physical health problems, further emphasizing the importance of companionship as a human need.

Again, that is why God declared that “it is not good for man to be alone.” (Gen 2:18). It was not a whim of God but a recognition of something important that concerns the well-being of man in this present life.

IV. Remarriage as a Solution

A. Addressing Loneliness

Remarriage can serve as the solution to loneliness and isolation, providing individuals with the companionship and emotional support they require. It offers the opportunity to forge meaningful connections and intimacy.

Although it is clear that Jesus said that remarriage is adultery, through a more careful and comprehensive study of the Bible, we can reach a broader conclusion that the mercy of God, after repentance, His forgiveness allows it to avoid major problems in man’s existence in this fallen world.

B. Meeting Emotional and Physical Needs

Remarriage can also fulfill emotional and physical needs for intimacy and affection, helping individuals maintain a healthy and balanced life. These needs are not mere superfluous desires but integral aspects of human well-being.

Again, that is why God declared that “it is not good for man to be alone.” (Gen 2:18). It was not a whim of God but a recognition of something important that concerns the well-being of man in this present life.

V. Philosophical Perspectives on Human Needs

A. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs places social and emotional needs, including companionship, belongingness, and love, as fundamental to human well-being. These needs are not optional but essential for self-fulfillment and self-actualization.

Again, that is why God declared that “it is not good for man to be alone.” (Gen 2:18). It was not a whim of God but a recognition of something important that concerns the well-being of man in this present life.

B. Aristotle’s Philosophy of Eudaimonia

Aristotle’s philosophy of eudaimonia, or human flourishing, emphasizes the importance of meaningful human relationships in achieving a well-lived life. Companionship and intimacy contribute to a fulfilled existence.

Again, that is why God declared that “it is not good for man to be alone.” (Gen 2:18). It was not a whim of God but a recognition of something important that concerns the well-being of man in this present life.

VI. Conclusion

A seared conscience that prohibits marriage can lead individuals to perceive these unions as superfluous indulgences rather than recognizing them as genuine human needs. However, the biblical declaration that “it is not good for a man to be alone” and the apostle Paul’s counsel that it is “better to marry than to burn” emphasize the essential nature of companionship and intimacy in human life.

Neglecting these real, natural human needs can have profound consequences for an individual’s emotional, psychological, and physical well-being. Loneliness and isolation can lead to emotional distress, depression, and deteriorating health. Therefore, remarriage, as a means to fulfill these needs, should not be viewed as an indulgence or extra desire but as a legitimate and important aspect of human existence that needs to be met.

From a philosophical perspective, prominent thinkers like Maslow and Aristotle have recognized the significance of companionship and meaningful relationships for human flourishing and well-being. This reinforces the idea that these needs should not be marginalized or dismissed.

In conclusion, a balanced perspective that acknowledges remarriage as a solution to address the genuine human need for companionship and intimacy aligns with both biblical and philosophical principles. Recognizing these needs as essential to human flourishing is not only a matter of ethics but also a recognition of the inherent value of human connection in the pursuit of a meaningful and fulfilled life.