Introduction

(Page i)

In recent times, the Pentecostal Church has noticed a shift that challenges its traditional views on
marriage. There has been a rise in divorce and remarriage among its members. What was once
rare in the faith community has become more common, even among leaders. This change requires
careful thought and a strong pastoral response. While society increasingly sees marriage as
temporary, the Church is called to uphold the sanctity and lasting nature of the marital covenant
set by God.

This assignment aims to explore the biblical basis for marriage and address the growing concern of
divorce within today’s Pentecostal context. It will look into the reasons behind many marital
breakdowns, such as communication issues, infidelity, abuse, and a lack of spiritual growth. It will
also suggest practical steps for the Church to tackle these problems, from pre-marital counseling to
compassionate support after separation.

The goal is not only to affirm the truth of Scripture but also to show Christ's compassion in
addressing brokenness. As spiritual leaders and members of the body of Christ, we are called to
support God's design for marriage while helping those who are struggling. This study aims to
empower pastors, leaders, and churches to strengthen marriages, reduce unnecessary divorces,
and effectively minister to those in need.

With truth, love, and wise leadership, the Pentecostal Church can demonstrate God's healing
power, even in tough situations.

**Divorce and Remarriage: A Trend Among Modern Pentecost**

**Page 1**

**Chapter 1: What Is Marriage?**

Marriage stands as one of God's most significant institutions. It transcends mere cultural norms or
legal contracts; it represents a divine commitment. In the eyes of God, marriage is sacred, holy,
and intended to endure for a lifetime. When two individuals unite in marriage, they pledge to love,
support, and remain devoted to one another throughout the highs and lows of life. It encompasses
more than just sharing a living space or raising children; it symbolizes the intertwining of two lives
into one. This partnership entails a profound connection that is physical, emotional, and spiritual.

Genesis 2:24 conveys, "Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his
wife, and they shall become one flesh." This verse illustrates that marriage is a union that
establishes a new family. It is a lifelong promise that is designed to mirror God’s steadfast
relationship with His people.¹
In contemporary society, many perceive marriage as a temporary arrangement or an optional
choice. However, from a biblical perspective, marriage is intended to be permanent and should
only be dissolved under severe circumstances. The Church must persist in conveying the true
essence of marriage, particularly as numerous couples face difficulties.² ³

**Page 2**

a. **The Marriage Bond**

The marriage bond represents the profound connection shared between husband and wife. This
bond is rooted in love, respect, sacrifice, and loyalty. It encompasses physical, emotional, and
spiritual aspects. Marriage symbolizes the relationship between Christ and His Church (Ephesians
5:31–32).⁴ The couple is called to celebrate joys and endure sorrows together, supporting one
another while growing in their faith.

Cultivating a robust marriage bond requires time, effort, forgiveness, and prayer. Essential
elements include communication, humility, and trust. Although challenges will occur, couples
should face them collaboratively, relying on God for support. The bond becomes stronger as both
partners remain dedicated to one another and to God.

The marriage bond is a covenant, not merely a contract. A contract can be annulled if one party
fails to uphold their end, whereas a covenant is a sacred vow made before God that persists even
during challenging times. This understanding fosters an appreciation and protection of the
marriage through adversity.⁵ ⁶

Page 3

b. Biblical Marriage

Biblical marriage is grounded in the teachings of Scripture. It is not influenced by societal norms,
emotions, or contemporary fads. From the outset, God's design for marriage was intended to be
between one man and one woman. Jesus confirmed this in Matthew 19:4–6, declaring, “What God
has joined together, let no one separate.”⁷ Marriage transcends mere partnership; it is a sacred
institution with spiritual obligations.

In a biblical marriage, husbands are instructed to love their wives as Christ loves the Church—
sacrificially, patiently, and without conditions. Wives, in turn, are called to respect and support
their husbands (Ephesians 5:22–25). This does not imply inequality but rather emphasizes mutual
service and love. Both spouses hold equal worth and should submit to one another in reverence
for Christ.⁸

A righteous marriage embodies love, unity, and commitment. It serves not only the couple but also
benefits their children and the broader community. Amidst a world filled with fractured
relationships, biblical marriage stands as a testimony to God's design and faithfulness. It reminds
believers that marriage is more than merely a human arrangement; it is a divine calling that
glorifies God.⁹

Page 4
Chapter 2: Issues of Divorce

Divorce represents a profound challenge for the Church in today’s context. In former times,
particularly among Pentecostals, divorce was infrequent and regarded as a last resort. However, a
growing number of Pentecostal believers today are choosing divorce more readily. This emerging
trend has even reached church leaders.

Divorce inflicts emotional, spiritual, and social scars. It leaves lasting wounds that may take years
to mend. Children endure significant suffering when their parents separate. They frequently feel
bewildered, insecure, and experience emotional turmoil. Churches also bear the consequences,
particularly when leaders or pastors face divorce. This can erode the trust of the congregation and
diminish the Church's influence in the community.

Jesus directly addressed the subject of divorce. In Matthew 19:8–9, He expressed that although
divorce was permitted in the Old Testament due to people’s hardened hearts, it was not part of
God's original plan. Divorce arises from sin—whether infidelity, neglect, or abuse. Nevertheless,
even in such circumstances, God seeks healing and restoration where feasible.¹⁰

Pentecostal churches need to tackle this matter with both honesty and compassion. We should
neither overlook the issue nor be excessively judgmental. Instead, we must seek to understand the
root causes and offer support, guidance, and prayer to couples in distress.¹¹ ¹² Page 5

Chapter 3: Reasons for Divorce

Many factors can contribute to the breakdown of marriages. Sometimes the reasons are clear,
while other times, they develop slowly. Here are some of the most common causes of divorce
today, especially among Pentecostal believers:

Lack of Communication – Couples often stop listening and talking to one another.
Misunderstandings grow, and small issues escalate. Emotional connections weaken and conflicts
increase.¹³ Without healthy communication, resentment builds, and love diminishes.

Adultery and Unfaithfulness – When one partner breaks the covenant through unfaithfulness, it
causes deep pain and breaks trust. Jesus allowed divorce in such cases (Matthew 5:32), though
forgiveness is still encouraged.¹⁴ Unfaithfulness seriously damages the foundation of the marital
relationship.

Abuse and Violence – Physical, emotional, or verbal abuse is never acceptable. It destroys safety in
the relationship. Protecting the victim is more important than maintaining the appearance of a
marriage.¹⁵ Abuse goes against the purpose of love, which is to protect and uplift.

Page 6

(Continued: Factors Leading to Divorce)

Financial Pressure – Job loss, debt, and ineffective money management can cause strain. Couples
who mismanage their finances often argue and lose harmony in their home.¹⁶ Financial hardships
frequently result in blame and frustration.

Spiritual Decline – When couples fail to grow in their spiritual lives, they risk becoming self-
centered, resentful, and impatient. Without Christ as the focal point, marriage can feel more like a
battle than a partnership.¹⁷ Consistent prayer, devotion, and worship are vital for strengthening
their connection.

Cultural Influences and Secular Values – Contemporary society tends to emphasize personal
happiness over obligation. This mindset drives many to abandon their commitment too easily
rather than work through challenges.¹⁸ The culture glorifies personal gratification over the fidelity
of the marriage covenant.

These factors highlight that sin, vulnerability, and a lack of direction often lie at the heart of
divorces. Churches should identify these underlying issues early and educate couples on how to
address them.¹⁹ Providing early pastoral support and guidance can avert many broken families and
assist in restoring unity.

Page 7

Chapter 4: Answers to Divorce

The Church ought to be a sanctuary for healing marriages rather than fostering their downfall.
Pastors play a crucial role in supporting couples with insight and compassion. Here are some
practical measures:

Pre-Marital Counseling – Couples should undergo training in biblical principles, effective

communication, forgiveness, and conflict resolution before they tie the knot. This establishes a
robust foundation.²⁰ Churches should refrain from officiating weddings without this necessary
preparation.

Continuous Teaching – Regular sermons and workshops on marriage can help couples grow and
stay mindful of their responsibilities. When biblical teachings are regularly reinforced, individuals
are less likely to stray.²¹ Sunday school, youth ministry, and adult classes should all support these
teachings.

Counseling and Prayer Support – Pastors and trained facilitators should assist couples during
difficult times. Private counseling sessions, prayer ministries, and wise advice can preserve many
marriages.²² Additionally, pastors should enlist seasoned couples to mentor those in need.

Page 8

(Continued: Answers to Divorce)

Support Groups and Mentorship – Healthy marriages within the church can provide guidance to
couples who are struggling. Group activities can facilitate encouragement and promote open
discussions.²³ Churches should foster safe environments for sharing experiences and healing.

Grace and Restoration – In the event of divorce, the Church must avoid rejection or condemnation
of those affected. Instead, it should guide them toward healing, forgiveness, and new
opportunities in Christ.²⁴ Many who have been divorced bear guilt and shame; thus, the Church
should serve as a beacon of hope and grace.

Cautious Consideration of Remarriage – While not all remarriages are problematic, they require
careful consideration. Pastors should evaluate each case on an individual basis, extending grace
while upholding biblical principles.²⁵ Each decision should be rooted in Scripture, compassion, and
the Holy Spirit's guidance.

By embodying love, teaching, and community support, the Church can profoundly impact the
prevention of divorce and the promotion of healthy, godly marriages. The Church should function
as both a sanctuary and a training ground for resilient relationships.

Page 9

Conclusion: Pastoral Responsibility in a Changing World

Divorce and remarriage have increasingly become prevalent issues, even within Pentecostal
communities. The Church cannot afford to stay silent or ignore these challenges. Instead, pastors
should communicate truth with compassion and lead with wisdom and grace.

Our responsibility is to uphold God's design for marriage while also offering His mercy to those
who stumble. We must safeguard families, enhance relationships, and be a beacon of hope to the
world. God's love has the power to restore any fractured marriage if we adhere to His principles.²⁶

Pastors need to be prepared to address sensitive situations and guide with spiritual maturity.
Churches should serve as environments for healing, growth, and spiritual development for
couples.²⁷

Let every congregation become a place where marriages are fostered, and every pastor act as a
shepherd to both the strong and the vulnerable.²⁸ May the Pentecostal Church be known not just
for its power, but also for its profound dedication to family and love.📄 Footnotes by Page

Page 1 – What Is Marriage?

1. Genesis 2:24, Holy Bible, New King James Version.

2. Malachi 2:16, Holy Bible, New King James Version.

3. Anderson, A. (2004). An Introduction to Pentecostalism: Global Charismatic Christianity,

Cambridge University Press, p. 73.

Page 2 – The Marriage Bond

4. Ephesians 5:31–32, Holy Bible, New King James Version.

5. Piper, J. (2012). This Momentary Marriage, Crossway Books, pp. 22–25.

6. White, J. F. (2001). Christian Worship: An Introductory Outline, Abingdon Press, p. 67.

Page 3 – Biblical Marriage

7. Matthew 19:4–6, Holy Bible, New King James Version.

8. Ephesians 5:22–25, Holy Bible, New King James Version.

9. Synan, V. (2012). The Century of the Holy Spirit, Thomas Nelson, pp. 178–180.
Page 4 – Issues of Divorce

10. Matthew 19:8–9, Holy Bible, New King James Version.

11. Callahan, K. L. (1994). Dynamic Worship, Jossey-Bass, pp. 114–116.

12. Webber, R. E. (2001). Twenty Centuries of Christian Worship, Hendrickson, p. 238.

Page 5 – Reasons for Divorce

13. Matthew 5:32, Holy Bible, New King James Version.

14. Bergunder, M. (2008). The South Indian Pentecostal Movement in the Twentieth Century,
Eerdmans, p. 221.

15. Clinton, T., & Trent, J. (2009). The Quick-Reference Guide to Marriage & Family Counseling,
Baker Books, pp. 96–99.

Page 6 – Continued: Reasons for Divorce

16. Proverbs 15:1, Holy Bible, New King James Version.

17. Romans 12:2, Holy Bible, New King James Version.

18. Anderson, A. (2013). To the Ends of the Earth: Pentecostalism and the Transformation of
World Christianity, Oxford University Press, p. 144.

19. Ibid., pp. 145–146.

Page 7 – Solutions for Divorce

20. Proverbs 11:14, Holy Bible, New King James Version.

21. Titus 2:3–5, Holy Bible, New King James Version.

22. Wootton, R. W. F. (1994). Christian Worship of God, Epworth Press, pp. 152–154.

Page 8 – Continued: Solutions for Divorce

23. John 8:11, Holy Bible, New King James Version.

24. Galatians 6:1, Holy Bible, New King James Version.

25. Fee, G. D. (1994). God’s Empowering Presence, Hendrickson Publishers, pp. 87–90.

Page 9 – Conclusion

26. 2 Corinthians 5:18, Holy Bible, New King James Version.

 27. Matthew 5:14–16, Holy Bible, New King James Version.

28. Hinson, D. F. (2001). History of Israel: Old Testament Introduction, SPCK, p. 12.

Bibliography

 Anderson, A. (2004). An Introduction to Pentecostalism: Global Charismatic Christianity.

Cambridge University Press.

 Anderson, A. (2013). To the Ends of the Earth: Pentecostalism and the Transformation of
World Christianity. Oxford University Press.

 Bergunder, M. (2008). The South Indian Pentecostal Movement in the Twentieth Century.
Eerdmans.

 Callahan, K. L. (1994). Dynamic Worship: Mission, Grace, Praise and Power. Jossey-Bass.

 Clinton, T., & Trent, J. (2009). The Quick-Reference Guide to Marriage & Family Counseling.
Baker Books.

 Fee, G. D. (1994). God’s Empowering Presence: The Holy Spirit in the Letters of Paul.
Hendrickson Publishers.

 Hinson, D. F. (2001). History of Israel: Old Testament Introduction. SPCK.

 Piper, J. (2012). This Momentary Marriage: A Parable of Permanence. Crossway Books.

 Synan, V. (2012). The Century of the Holy Spirit: 100 Years of Pentecostal and Charismatic
Renewal. Thomas Nelson.

 Webber, R. E. (Ed.). (2001). Twenty Centuries of Christian Worship (4th ed.). Hendrickson
Publishers.

 White, J. F. (2001). Christian Worship: An Introductory Outline (2nd ed.). Abingdon Press.

 Wootton, R. W. F. (1994). Christian Worship of God. Epworth Press.