Articles
Some Facts About Marriage and Divorce
The prophet Malachi pointedly addressed the sins of his day. In chapter two of his book, he turned attention to the problem of divorce (vv. 13-16). Notice these facts about marriage from that paragraph.
Marriage is a covenant. “She is your companion and your wife by covenant” (v. 14). A covenant is a binding agreement. In the case of marriage it is a covenant drawn up by God (Genesis 2:24; Proverbs 2:17).
God witnesses our marriage vows. “The Lord has been a witness between you and the wife of your youth” (v. 14).
Time does not alter the marriage covenant. Twice the prophet refers to “the wife of your youth” (vv. 14, 15). Despite any changes that may occur with the passing of time, God still expects people to keep the vows they made years ago.
Divorce is treason. “Against whom you have dealt treacherously” (v. 14). Treason suggests the worst kind of betrayal, the violation of a most valued trust. That is precisely what divorce is.
Divorce reveals spiritual emptiness. “But not one has done so who has a remnant of the Spirit” (v. 15). Those who claim to live by the Spirit must also walk by the Spirit (Galatians 5:25). One who divorces a mate is doing the opposite of what God’s Spirit instructs.
God hates divorce. “‘For I hate divorce,’ says the Lord, the God of Israel” (v. 16). Could He have spoken any more plainly? Why, then, do so many go to such lengths to justify doing what God clearly does not want done?
Divorce is violence. “And him who covers his garment with violence” (v. 16). Violence is a remarkably strong term here. Divorce inflicts intense pain, as surely as physical violence does. (In v. 13 the victimized wives have cried enough tears to cover the altar!) It fractures the lives of all involved, including other family members.
Divorce impairs our relationship with God. “He no longer regards the offering or accepts it with favor from your hand” (v. 13). If failure to honor one’s wife hinders his prayers (1 Peter 3:7), how much more would divorcing her! We are self-deceived if we think we can ignore God’s instructions yet continue to enjoy His approval.
“So take heed to your spirit, that you do not deal treacherously” (v. 16).
