In this essay, we will explore the ethics of divorce and remarriage, as well as practical solutions to difficult situations. We hold these convictions based on what we read in scripture. We have even brought certain extreme cases of unrighteous divorce to formal church discipline. Also, we have been willing to go to great lengths to help couples save their marriages.

In addition to the wonderful equipping found in home groups and personal discipleship, we have instituted pre-marital counseling, prepare and enrich marital counseling, marriage mentoring, and marriage classes. Historically we have held a high bar for marriage and called those getting married in our church to take their vows seriously. Dwell Community Church has historically done much better than the typical 55 to 60 percent of American marriages that end in divorce, but we are not immune to cultural pressure. People claiming to be “born again” statistically fare little better than everyone else when it comes to honoring their marriage vows. American “Christianity” has always had a poor showing when it comes to divorce. Our culture is impacting the church more than scripture in the Western world. And any God or religion that tells you otherwise should be dumped faster than your old spouse! If you are unhappy, if you want out, if your spouse makes you sad, or if you just find someone better, our culture says go for it. Our culture provides nearly zero tension on the question of divorce.

This has put great pressure on the church to abandon scripture when it comes to the issue. In the United States, not only do most marriages fail, but more people are starting families without even bothering to get married. The concept of marriage as a lifelong commitment has almost disappeared in our culture.

In fact, it is usually accompanied by ongoing, excruciating, and often sinful relating by both parties. Divorce is a painful and difficult subject for any community.

Brave church divorce and remarriage