Prohibiting Remarriage

Examination of its Impact on the Gospel and Christian Families

Introduction

The prohibition of remarriage, as advocated by the rigid interpretation of Matthew 19:9, has been a topic of debate within the Christian community for centuries. This essay aims to provide a comprehensive examination of why such prohibition can have catastrophic consequences for the worldwide preaching of the gospel and for children born to well-established remarried couples who decide to embrace Christianity.

We will argue that the church must reject this interpretation, characterized by a seared conscience, and instead embrace the concept of “mercy over sacrifice” that was central to Jesus’ ministry on Earth. We will draw upon biblical and philosophical insights presented in our previous essays to support this perspective.

I. The Rigid Interpretation of Matthew 19:9

A. Understanding the Prohibition

The rigid interpretation of Matthew 19:9 prohibits remarriage after divorce, equating it with perpetual adultery. This viewpoint often calls for the ending of a new marriage for a life of celibacy as a form of repentance, effectively denying individuals the possibility of remarrying.

B. The Seared Conscience

As previously discussed, this rigid interpretation clearly reflects the characteristics of a seared conscience, a state of moral insensitivity that prioritizes strict adherence to the law over compassion and mercy.

II. The Gospel and the Prohibition of Remarriage

A. Global Gospel Preaching

The gospel’s primary mission is to reach people worldwide with the message of salvation through Christ. Prohibiting remarriage can hinder this mission by presenting a rigid, unauthorized, and incorrect version of Christianity.

B. Repentant Remarried Couples

Many individuals and couples who turn to Christianity may already be remarried. Forcing them to unnecessarily end their marriages and live a life of celibacy as evidence of repentance can create insurmountable challenges and discourage them from embracing the faith. A requirement that is completely foreign to the scriptures.

III. The Real Human Need for Companionship

A. God’s Design

As established in previous essays, God’s design for humans includes the need for companionship. Genesis 2:18 emphasizes that “it is not good for man to be alone.” Recognizing this need is crucial for the well-being and spiritual growth of individuals, and the church needs to understand this reality.

B. The Apostolic Counsel

The apostle Paul’s counsel in 1 Corinthians 7:9 underscores the importance of addressing human sexual needs through marriage. Failing to acknowledge and meet these needs can have adverse consequences. And that is why the apostle Paul speaks clearly about that matter.

IV. Embracing Mercy Over Sacrifice

A. Jesus’ Ministry

Jesus’ earthly ministry consistently emphasized mercy and compassion over strict adherence to the law. His actions, as seen in Matthew 12:1–8, highlighted the principle of “mercy over sacrifice.”

B. Rejecting a Seared Conscience

The rigid interpretation of Matthew 19:9 aligns with the seared conscience warned against in 1 Timothy 4:2. The church must reject this conscience and adopt Jesus’ compassionate approach.

V. Philosophical Implications

A. Ethical Considerations

From a philosophical perspective, prioritizing mercy over sacrifice aligns with ethical considerations of compassion, justice, and the greater good for humanity.

B. Human Flourishing

Philosophical concepts like Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and Aristotle’s eudaimonia highlight the importance of companionship and human relationships for human flourishing. Of course, God had already stated this in Genesis 2:18 when saying, “It is not good for a man to be alone.”

VI. Conclusion

The prohibition of remarriage, as advocated by the rigid interpretation of Matthew 19:9, poses significant challenges to the worldwide preaching of the gospel and has potentially devastating consequences for individuals and families. Through a responsible and careful study of the Bible, we know that this is not something God wants. This interpretation reflects a seared conscience, prioritizing strict legalism over the compassionate ministry of Jesus Christ.

The gospel’s mission is to reach people worldwide with the message of salvation, and prohibiting remarriage can hinder this mission by presenting a merciless and incorrect version of Christianity. Furthermore, for many individuals and couples, remarriage may already be a part of their lives, and forcing them into celibacy can create insurmountable challenges and discourage them from embracing the faith.

Recognizing the real human need for companionship, as emphasized in God’s design and apostolic counsel, is essential for the well-being and spiritual growth of individuals. Ignoring this need can have adverse consequences for their mental, emotional, and physical health.

The church must embrace the concept of “mercy over sacrifice,” which characterized Jesus’ ministry on Earth. This approach aligns with philosophical principles of compassion, justice, and human flourishing. Rejecting a seared conscience and promoting a message of grace and understanding is not only ethically sound but also vital for the church’s mission and the well-being of its members.

In conclusion, the church’s stance on remarriage should be one that reflects God’s compassion and mercy, as demonstrated by Jesus, rather than a rigid interpretation that can deter individuals and families from embracing Christianity and receiving salvation. Recognizing and meeting the genuine human need for companionship and intimacy is not only a matter of ethics but also a reflection of God’s love, mercy, and grace.