Analyzing Biblical Teachings on Divorce: A Critique of Dr. David Clark’s “I Don’t Want a Divorce” Podcast
In a recent episode of Answering the Error, hosts Don Blackwell and Aaron Gallagher examined Dr. David Clark’s video on marriage, divorce, and remarriage. Their analysis focused on reconciling Dr. Clark’s claims with Scripture, emphasizing the necessity of adhering strictly to biblical principles. Below is a detailed breakdown of their critique and theological conclusions.
1. The Three Biblical Reasons for Divorce: A Misinterpretation
Dr. Clark asserts three scriptural grounds for divorce:
- Unrepentant Adultery (Matthew 19:9)
- Abandonment by a Non-Christian Spouse (1 Corinthians 7:15)
- Chronic Abuse (physical or emotional)
Blackwell and Gallagher argue that only the first reason—adultery (porneia)—is explicitly supported by Scripture. They stress that Jesus’ exception in Matthew 19:9 (“except for sexual immorality”) is absolute and exclusive, rejecting additional exceptions[1].
- Abandonment Misread: Dr. Clark interprets 1 Corinthians 7:15 (“a believer is not bound in such circumstances”) as permitting remarriage after abandonment. However, the hosts clarify the Greek term for “bound” (doulos) refers to slavery, not marital bonds. Paul’s focus is on maintaining peace, not dissolving marriage[1].
- No Scriptural Basis for Abuse: While advocating for safety, the hosts emphasize abuse is not listed as a biblical ground for divorce. Emotional abuse, in particular, risks subjective interpretation, echoing the Pharisees’ “any cause” rationale (Matthew 19:3)[1].
2. Remarriage After Unscriptural Divorce: A Dangerous Doctrine
Dr. Clark claims individuals who remarry after unbiblical divorces can “reset” their marriages through repentance. The hosts counter this using Jesus’ teachings:
- Adultery as Ongoing Sin: Matthew 19:9 uses the present tense (“commits adultery”), indicating continuous action. Repentance requires ending the adulterous union, not merely seeking forgiveness while remaining in it[1].
- John the Baptist’s Example: Herod’s unlawful marriage to Herodias was condemned unequivocally (Mark 6:18). Similarly, unscriptural marriages must be dissolved to repent fully[1].
3. Key Theological Corrections
- Misuse of 1 Corinthians 7:39: Dr. Clark argues remarriage must be “only to a Christian,” citing 1 Corinthians 7:39. The hosts clarify this phrase (“only in the Lord”) refers to marrying within God’s moral law, not exclusively to believers[1].
- Old Testament Context: Moses permitted divorce due to “hardness of heart” (Matthew 19:8), but Jesus restored God’s original intent: lifelong union. Adding exceptions undermines this restoration[1].
4. Practical Implications and Repentance
- Forgiveness Requires Action: Repentance for unscriptural divorce demands leaving the adulterous relationship, mirroring the call to abandon other sins (e.g., theft, idolatry)[1].
- The Cost of Discipleship: Jesus’ teaching shocked the disciples (“it is better not to marry” – Matthew 19:10). This severity underscores the gravity of marital covenants[1].
Conclusion: Returning to Scriptural Fidelity
The episode reaffirms that marriage is inviolable except for adultery. While compassion is essential for those in difficult marriages, altering biblical standards risks normalizing sin. As Blackwell concludes, “What God has joined together, let no man separate” (Matthew 19:6) remains the unchanging standard for discipleship[1].
For those seeking forgiveness, the path involves repentance, separation from unscriptural unions, and commitment to God’s design—ensuring fidelity to both His grace and justice[1].