Bible Discussion Thread

 
  • Ruth Prevost on Exodus 40:37 - 3 years ago
    Regarding Marriage, What does it mean by if the unbelieving depart. You're not in boundage?
  • Chris - In Reply on Exodus 40:37 - 3 years ago
    In 1 Corinthians 7:13-15, we read of a marriage that has a Christian spouse & a non-Christian spouse. If they're happy to remain together (in spite of their differences & associated problems), then they should keep the sanctity of the marriage by remaining together. However (in v 15), if the non-Christian spouse really wants to separate or divorce, he/she shouldn't be stopped from doing so & they should separate.

    BUT, for many Christians they now see that a licence is given here for a re-marriage to take place, because the verse says, "A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases". This is not the case. Paul means that a Christian should not be in 'bondage' (or, being caged or chained up in a constant state of suffering, abuse or hatred) because of being compelled to hold the marriage together; one party should be free to go.

    Nevertheless, the other Scripture remains in force, "And I (Jesus) say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery." ( Matthew 19:9). So, if there's a separation/divorce, the believing spouse has to remain unmarried or else they would be committing adultery. The reference to "fornication", given by the Lord, was when it was found out by a spouse, during the betrothal or after a marriage had taken place, that there was 'uncleanness' in the other: i.e. where one was unfaithful at that time. In those days, the betrothal period was part of the marriage bond - not like today, when a couple could opt to cancel the engagement for any reason.



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