1. Marriage and Divorce

2. The Challenge Before Us Divorce continues to be rampant in America. Doctrinal disagreement on the issue has resulted in more divorces and more church divisions. We must stand for truth! (1 Corinthians 1:27; Proverbs 23:23) The status quo is unacceptable. We must renew our minds! (Ephesians 4:23, 2). We must seek and speak the truth in a spirit of humility, gentleness and longsuffering.

3. Areas of General Agreement Marriage is a life-long commitment (Romans 7:2; 1 Corinthians 7:39; Matthew 19:6; Malachi 2:16) God allows only one exception to His no divorce law (Matt. 19:1-12; 5:31-32; Mark 10:1-12) The alien sinner is subject to Christ’s marriage law. (Matthew 19:1-12; 5:31-32; Mark 10:1-12; Luke 16:18) Baptism does not wash away unrepentant adultery (Acts 2:38). Repentance demands that sinful relationships cease (Ezra 10; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11). The believer whose mate departs is not obligated to fulfill marital obligations (1 Cor. 7:15).

4. Areas Of Fundamental Disagreement What Constitutes Marriage? A covenant (Malachi 2:14) A public proclamation or ceremony which accords with civil law and societal norms (Matt. 22:1-10; 25:1-10; Luke 14:8; John 2:1-2) A joining of husband and wife (Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:5; Ephesians 5:31) Becoming one flesh (Genesis 2:24; 1 Cor. 6:16; Malachi 2:15)

5. Areas Of Fundamental Disagreement What Constitutes Divorce (putting away)? Putting away is an undoing of that which constituted the marriage (Matthew 19:4-6, 9, cf. 1 Corinthians 7:27 ) Putting away is an action, not merely a decision Putting away is a unilateral action Putting away involves legal action The one who is put away commits adultery when he or she remarries

6. Solid Foundations God's desire is that marriage be a life-long commitment. The general rule is that to divorce and remarry is to commit the sin of adultery (Luke 16:18). God has provided one exception to this rule, and it must be regarded as just that -- AN EXCEPTION!!! (Matthew 19:9).