MARRIAGE, DIVORCE AND COHABITATION IN TODAY’S WORLD
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Matthew 19:4-9, Hebrews 13:4
Supporting Texts: Genesis 2:18–25, Malachi 2:14-16, 1 Corinthians 7:10-11, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5, Ephesians 5:22-33
INTRODUCTION:
Marriage, as ordained by God, is a holy covenant and not a casual contract. In today’s world, however, the sanctity of marriage is under attack. Divorce is becoming more common, cohabitation is increasing, and the concept of godly courtship is being abandoned for worldly alternatives. This cultural shift is threatening the foundation of homes, families, and even the Church.
God’s standard for marriage is clear from the beginning: one man, one woman, joined together in covenant for life. Divorce was never His original intention, and cohabitation without the blessing of marriage dishonours God’s design. Many couples today choose convenience over commitment, and pleasure over purity, but Scripture calls believers to honour marriage with holiness and integrity.
This message seeks to confront cultural norms with biblical truth, challenging believers to uphold godly standards in courtship, marriage, and family life. The Church must be a light in this dark age—showing what Christlike love, faithfulness, and purity look like in relationships.
1. GOD’S ORIGINAL DESIGN FOR MARRIAGE MUST BE HONOURED
Marriage is a divine institution, not a social experiment or convenience.
a) God Made Them Male and Female (Matthew 19:4)
Marriage is between one man and one woman, created by God for companionship, purpose, and procreation.
b) Marriage Is a Covenant, Not a Contract (Malachi 2:14–15)
God views marriage as sacred; it reflects His covenantal love.
c) The Two Shall Become One Flesh (Genesis 2:24)
God joins husband and wife in spiritual, emotional, and physical unity.
d) What God Has Joined Together, Let No Man Separate (Matthew 19:6)
Marriage is not to be dissolved by human decision but to be preserved through divine grace.
Biblical Example: Adam and Eve were joined by God in the Garden of Eden, setting the standard for marriage (Genesis 2:18–25).
2. DIVORCE GRIEVES THE HEART OF GOD
Though permitted under certain conditions, divorce is not God’s perfect will.
a) God Hates Divorce (Malachi 2:16)
Divorce disrupts the covenant, damages lives, and reflects brokenness, not God’s design.
b) Divorce Was Allowed Because of Hardness of Heart (Matthew 19:8)
Jesus clarified that divorce is a concession, not a command.
c) Adultery Is One Biblical Ground for Divorce (Matthew 19:9)
Even with biblical grounds, forgiveness and restoration are always encouraged first.
d) Reconciliation Is God’s Desire (1 Corinthians 7:10–11)
Couples are encouraged to work through differences rather than separate.
Biblical Example: Hosea’s persistent love for Gomer, despite her unfaithfulness, reflects God’s heart for reconciliation (Hosea 3:1–3).
3. COHABITATION IS A DISTORTION OF GOD’S PLAN
Living together before marriage violates biblical principles of purity and honour.
a) Marriage Should Be Honoured by All (Hebrews 13:4)
Sexual relations belong within the covenant of marriage, not outside it.
b) Fornication and Impurity Dishonour the Body (1 Thessalonians 4:3–5)
God’s will is our sanctification—living in holiness, not lust.
c) Cohabitation Breeds Temptation and Instability
Without commitment, couples are more vulnerable to sin and separation.
d) God’s Blessing Rests on Obedience
Cohabiting couples miss out on the full blessing God intends for marriage.
Biblical Example: Joseph refused to touch Mary before marriage, demonstrating honour and self-control (Matthew 1:18–25).
4. GODLY COURTSHIP BUILDS A STRONG FOUNDATION
Christian relationships should reflect purity, prayer, and purpose.
a) Do Not Be Unequally Yoked (2 Corinthians 6:14)
Believers must marry those who share their faith in Christ.
b) Seek God’s Will in Choosing a Life Partner (Proverbs 3:5–6)
Rely on God’s direction—not feelings alone—in choosing whom to marry.
c) Build Relationships on Love, Not Lust (1 Corinthians 13:4–7)
Godly love is patient, kind, and pure.
d) Involve Godly Mentors and Accountability (Proverbs 15:22)
Wise counsel ensures spiritual alignment and emotional maturity.
Biblical Example: Isaac and Rebekah’s courtship involved prayer, family counsel, and divine leading (Genesis 24:12–27).
CONCLUSION:
Marriage is God’s sacred design, created for companionship, covenant, and Christlike love. In a generation that is redefining marriage and rejecting biblical values, believers must uphold the truth. Divorce, while permitted under certain circumstances, is not to be taken lightly. Cohabitation and ungodly courtship dishonour God and damage lives.
Let us honour marriage, uphold purity, and pursue relationships God’s way. Whether you are single, married, or divorced, God’s grace is available to guide and restore. His plan for your life and relationships is always for your good and His glory.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me honour marriage according to Your Word.
2. Father, restore every broken relationship and home.
3. Deliver me from every form of impurity and compromise.
4. Teach me to wait on You and choose wisely in relationships.
5. Let godly love and covenant keep my marriage strong and enduring.
