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Is a Sexless Marriage Biblical Grounds for Divorce? – Viral Believer
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Is a Sexless Marriage Biblical Grounds for Divorce?

Introduction

As followers of Christ, we strive to apply the teachings of the Bible to every aspect of our lives, including our marriages. Marriage is a sacred institution established by God, designed to provide companionship, support, and love between two people.

But what happens when a marriage becomes devoid of physical intimacy? Is a sexless marriage biblical grounds for divorce?

In this blog post, we will explore the biblical teachings surrounding marriage, divorce, and the importance of sexual intimacy within the context of a Christian marriage. We will then address the question of whether a sexless marriage can be considered grounds for divorce from a biblical perspective.

The institution of marriage is deeply rooted in the scriptures, with numerous passages highlighting its importance and the roles of husband and wife. The apostle Paul emphasizes that husbands and wives have a responsibility to fulfill their marital duties to one another, including sexual relations.

While it is true that marriages face various challenges and difficulties, we must remember to turn to the Bible for guidance and wisdom in navigating these situations.

To better understand the topic at hand, we will discuss the biblical teachings on marriage and divorce, the importance of sexual intimacy within a Christian marriage, and the various reasons why a marriage may become sexless.

By the end of this blog post, we hope to provide a comprehensive understanding of whether a sexless marriage can be considered biblical grounds for divorce.

marriage in the Bible

Biblical Teachings on Marriage

Marriage is described in the Bible as a covenant relationship between a man and a woman, established by God (Genesis 2:24; Malachi 2:14). The sanctity of marriage is emphasized throughout the scriptures, and it is intended to be a lifelong commitment.

As Ephesians 5:31 (NKJV) states, “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” This union is meant to reflect the relationship between Christ and the church (Ephesians 5:22-33).

In a Christian marriage, the husband is called to love his wife as Christ loves the church and to be the spiritual leader of the family (Ephesians 5:25, 1 Corinthians 11:3). The wife, on the other hand, is called to submit to her husband and respect him (Ephesians 5:22, 33).

Both husband and wife have specific roles and responsibilities within the context of their marriage, which include providing emotional, spiritual, and physical support to one another.

Biblical Teachings on Divorce

The Bible addresses the issue of divorce in several passages, with Jesus himself speaking against it in the New Testament. In Matthew 19:6 (NKJV), Jesus says, “So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.”

Jesus further emphasizes the seriousness of divorce in Matthew 19:9 (NKJV), stating, “And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced commits adultery.”

According to Jesus’ teachings, the only acceptable grounds for divorce is marital unfaithfulness, or sexual immorality (Greek: porneia). The apostle Paul echoes this teaching in 1 Corinthians 7:10-11 (NKJV), where he instructs married couples to remain together, unless there is a valid reason for separation.

In cases where an unbelieving spouse abandons their Christian partner, Paul teaches that the believer is not bound to the marriage (1 Corinthians 7:15).

The Importance of Sexual Intimacy in Christian Marriage

Sexual intimacy is an essential aspect of a healthy Christian marriage. It serves multiple purposes, including procreation, physical pleasure, and emotional bonding between husband and wife. The apostle Paul speaks about the importance of sexual intimacy within marriage in 1 Corinthians 7:3-5 (NKJV):

“Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does.

Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.”

According to this passage, withholding sexual intimacy can lead to temptation and sin. Therefore, it is vital for married couples to prioritize physical intimacy as a means of nurturing their relationship and upholding their marital vows.

Reasons for Sexless Marriages

There are numerous reasons why a marriage may become sexless, including health issues, stress, emotional disconnection, and unresolved conflict. It is essential for couples facing these challenges to seek help and support, either through counseling, medical intervention, or open communication with one another.

In some cases, the lack of sexual intimacy may be temporary and can be resolved through understanding, patience, and mutual effort.

However, if the lack of intimacy becomes chronic and is causing significant distress to one or both partners, it may be considered a form of marital neglect.

This neglect, while not explicitly mentioned as grounds for divorce in the Bible, can lead to a breakdown in the marital relationship and should be addressed with urgency and care.

Is a Sexless Marriage Biblical Grounds for Divorce?

While the Bible does not explicitly state that a sexless marriage is grounds for divorce, it is clear that sexual intimacy plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy and fulfilling marital relationship.

If a couple is experiencing persistent issues with sexual intimacy that cannot be resolved, it is essential for them to seek help through counseling, medical intervention, or open communication with one another.

In cases where one partner consistently refuses to engage in sexual intimacy without a valid reason, it may be considered a form of marital neglect.

While this situation is not explicitly mentioned as grounds for divorce in the Bible, it is important for couples to prayerfully consider their options and seek God’s guidance in navigating this difficult situation.

It is essential to remember that God’s desire for marriage is for it to be a lifelong commitment, reflecting the love and unity between Christ and the church.

While divorce should not be taken lightly, it is important for couples facing the issue of a sexless marriage to seek help and support in order to preserve their relationship and honor their commitment to one another.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the question of whether a sexless marriage is biblical grounds for divorce is complex and requires careful consideration of the biblical teachings on marriage, divorce, and sexual intimacy.

While the Bible does not explicitly address this issue, it is clear that sexual intimacy is an essential component of a healthy Christian marriage.

Couples experiencing problems in this area should seek help, support, and guidance in order to preserve their marriage and honor their commitment to one another.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue divorce in the context of a sexless marriage should be approached with prayer, wisdom, and a deep understanding of God’s Word.

Pastor Duke Taber
Pastor Duke Taber

Pastor Duke Taber

All articles have been written or reviewed by Pastor Duke Taber.
Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988.
Today he is the owner and managing editor of 3 successful Christian websites that support missionaries around the world.
He is currently starting a brand new church in Mesquite NV called Mesquite Worship Center, a Non-Denominational Spirit Filled Christian church in Mesquite Nevada.