Expert: Rev. Stuart Woodward - 7/5/2009

Question
Once a spouse commits  adultery, isn't that an automatic divorce in the eye of
God regarding marriage.  simply because if two people got married and did not
have sex and wanted a divorce shortly after, I don't think the pastor can divorce
them. Isn't the sexual intercourse makes you one with your spouse?

Answer
Hi Kevin,
Thank you for your question. If a person's spouse commits adultery it is grounds for divorce biblically but it does not necessitate divorce. Jesus was clear in His teaching that divorce was only permitted by God because of the hardness of people's hearts. Grace and forgiveness are always God's preferred way where there is repentance. Some find that too hard but there are many marriages which have survived adultery and gone on to thrive.
Where there is no sexual union at all the marriage has not been consummated and can be annulled but that (as indeed the legality of marriage itself) is not just a matter for the church but for the state as well.
I hope my comments are of some help and pray God will give you wisdom.
Stuart Woodward