In the Bible Moises allows Divorce: The Importance of Legalizing Divorce in the Philippines

 

Understanding the Biblical Perspective

The Bible provides guidance on many aspects of life, including marriage and divorce. It's crucial to understand that while divorce is not encouraged, it is permitted under certain circumstances to prevent greater harm. As mentioned in Matthew 19:8-10, Jesus acknowledges that Moses allowed divorce due to the hardness of people's hearts, even though it was not the original intention.

"Jesus replied, 'Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning. I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.'"

This passage highlights the need for divorce in cases of infidelity. If one separates from their spouse without legitimate grounds and engages in another relationship, they commit adultery. Thus, it is essential to seek a proper divorce before entering a new relationship to avoid committing a sin.

The Current Situation in the Philippines

In the Philippines, many people are forced into adulterous situations due to the complexity and high cost of annulment. This situation is exacerbated by the lack of affordable and straightforward divorce proceedings. The current system indirectly encourages people to sin by making it difficult to legally end a marriage.

The government must address this issue by providing a legal avenue for divorce that is accessible to everyone. This change would allow individuals to move on from failed marriages without being forced into immoral situations.

Respecting Individual Freedom

God has given humans the freedom to make decisions, including those regarding human laws, as long as they are just and righteous. The Bible acknowledges that divorce is not the ideal but recognizes human imperfection and provides a way to address it. By legalizing divorce, we respect the freedom and dignity of individuals, allowing them to pursue happiness and avoid greater sins.

Politicians often fear backlash from religious groups, but it's important to remember that even Jesus acknowledged the necessity of divorce due to human imperfection. Respecting the will and hardness of human hearts, God allowed Moses to permit divorce, emphasizing the need to make righteous decisions in this regard.

Promoting Love and Respect

A home filled with constant conflict and abuse is not conducive to the love and respect that God teaches us to uphold. If a marriage cannot be reconciled, it is better to separate and allow both parties to find peace and happiness elsewhere. Continuing in a toxic relationship may lead to more grievous sins, such as violence or even murder.

Legalizing divorce would enable individuals to make the right decisions regarding separation, promoting peace and respect. It would also provide protection for those suffering from abusive relationships, allowing them to escape and rebuild their lives.

Clarifying Misconceptions About Divorce

It is important to understand that divorce is not about legalizing immorality. People can have immoral thoughts and actions regardless of their marital status. Legalizing divorce is about granting freedom and respect, ensuring that before one enters a new relationship, they are legally separated from their previous partner.

This respect for legal and moral boundaries ensures that new relationships are built on a foundation of honesty and integrity. Legalizing divorce allows individuals to start anew without the burden of unresolved past relationships.

In conclusion, legalizing divorce is not about promoting sin but about providing a righteous and just way to address the reality of human relationships. It respects individual freedom, promotes love and respect, and provides a necessary legal framework to prevent greater harm. By legalizing divorce, we align our human laws with the compassionate and understanding nature of divine guidance, allowing individuals to pursue happiness and righteousness in their lives.