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What does the Bible say about divorce and forgiveness?

Bible Topic · WEB

The Bible teaches that marriage is a sacred covenant, divorce is contrary to God’s design and should not be treated lightly, and believers are called both to repent of sin and to forgive those who repent. Malachi 2:16 condemns covenant faithlessness, while 1 Corinthians 7:10-11 urges married Christians not to separate and, if separation occurs, to seek reconciliation where possible. Yet forgiveness does not deny the seriousness of sin or require ignoring ongoing danger or unrepentance. God freely forgives those who confess their sins in faith, as 1 John 1:9 promises. Matthew 6:14-15 and Matthew 18:21-22 call Christ’s people to extend forgiveness generously, reflecting the mercy they have received in Christ.

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • 1 John 1:9

    If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us the sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

  • Matthew 6:14-15

    [14] "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. [15] But if you don't forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:10-11

    [10] But to the married I command--not I, but the Lord--that the wife not leave her husband [11] (but if she departs, let her remain unmarried, or else be reconciled to her husband), and that the husband not leave his wife.

  • Matthew 18:21-22

    [21] Then Peter came and said to him, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Until seven times?" [22] Jesus said to him, "I don't tell you until seven times, but, until seventy times seven.

  • Malachi 2:16

    For I hate divorce," says Yahweh, the God of Israel, "and him who covers his garment with violence!' says Yahweh of Hosts. "Therefore take heed to your spirit, that you don't deal treacherously.

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