Abandonment

In the Bible, abandonment in marriage, particularly by an unbelieving spouse, is recognized as a valid ground for divorce and potential remarriage, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 7:15. If an unbeliever leaves, the believer is "not bound" and is called to peace. The Bible generally views marriage as a lifelong covenant, but makes exceptions for sexual immorality and desertion. 

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Key biblical perspectives on marital abandonment include:

• The "Pauline Privilege" (1 Corinthians 7:12-15): If an unbelieving spouse leaves a believer, the believer is permitted to let them go. The marriage can be dissolved, and the believer is not under bondage to continue the relationship.

• Definition of Abandonment: While often meaning physical departure, many interpret this to include the destruction of the marriage covenant, such as through severe abuse or refusal to act as a spouse, according to.

• Reconciliation Mandate: Before treating desertion as final, believers are urged to pursue peace and reconciliation, particularly if the abandoning spouse is a believer.

• Unbelieving Spouse: The focus of 1 Corinthians 7 is on the departure of an unbelieving spouse. Christians are encouraged to remain with their spouse if they are willing to live together.

• Freedom to Remarry: Many theologians argue that because the abandoned spouse is "not bound," they are free to remarry, as the marriage covenant was broken by the deserter. 

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Key Scripture References:

• 1 Corinthians 7:15: "But if the unbeliever leaves, let it be so. The brother or the sister is not bound in such cases...".

• Matthew 19:9: Jesus gives adultery as a reason for divorce, but Paul later adds abandonment to this, as mentioned in.

• Malachi 2:16: Indicates that God hates divorce and the violence associated with broken marriage covenants.