What are the different denominational positions?

The landscape of denominational positions on remarriage reflects centuries of theological development, biblical interpretation, and pastoral concern. Catholic Position: The Roman Catholic Church holds that valid marriages are indissoluble, making remarriage impossible unless the previous marriage is declared null through annulment. This position stems from their interpretation of Jesus' words in Matthew 19:6 and their understanding of marriage as a sacrament that creates an unbreakable bond.

Protestant Variations: Most Protestant denominations permit remarriage but differ in their requirements. Conservative Evangelical churches often allow remarriage only for biblical grounds like adultery (Matthew 19:9) or abandonment by an unbelieving spouse (1 Corinthians 7:15). Mainline Protestant denominations typically take a more pastoral approach, considering the circumstances while maintaining biblical principles. Pentecostal and Charismatic churches vary widely, with some being restrictive and others emphasizing grace and restoration.

Orthodox Churches follow economia (pastoral discretion), generally allowing second marriages with penitential elements but viewing them as less than ideal. Third marriages are rare and heavily restricted. Anglican/Episcopal churches occupy a middle ground, often requiring pastoral consultation and considering the welfare of children and circumstances of the divorce. These differences aren't merely academic—they profoundly impact real families seeking to rebuild their lives while maintaining their faith community connections.

Scripture provides the foundation for all denominational positions, though interpretations vary significantly. Matthew 19:3-9 records Jesus' primary teaching on divorce, where He states that Moses permitted divorce due to hardness of heart, but "from the beginning it was not so." The exception clause—"except for sexual immorality"—is interpreted differently across denominations, with some seeing it as permission for remarriage and others viewing it as grounds for separation only.

1 Corinthians 7:10-16 adds Paul's apostolic guidance, particularly the "Pauline Privilege" allowing remarriage when an unbelieving spouse abandons the marriage. Orthodox and Protestant churches generally accept this as legitimate grounds for remarriage, while Catholics apply it only to unbaptized persons.

Romans 7:2-3 explains that marriage bonds are dissolved by death, leading some to argue that spiritual death of the marriage through serious sin creates similar freedom. 1 Corinthians 7:27-28 suggests that remarriage isn't sinful: "Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be loosed. Are you loosed from a wife? Do not seek a wife. But even if you do marry, you have not sinned."

Malachi 2:16 states God hates divorce, emphasizing marriage's sacred nature, while Jeremiah 3:8 metaphorically describes God as giving faithless Israel a certificate of divorce, suggesting even God recognizes some marriages cannot continue. The key is understanding that these passages must be interpreted within their historical context while applying their principles to modern situations with wisdom and pastoral sensitivity.