Rethinking some Aspects of Ministry to the Divorced: A Theological Retake

Abstract

Critically examines the notion of the “friendly divorce” and finds it severely inadequate on personal, biblical, and theological grounds. Contrasts “friendly divorce” with “divorce with freedom” and observes that the idea of shalom is a suitable description for the healthy divorce. Argues for the abandonment of friendly divorce and urges the church and divorcing persons to aim instead for civility and peace-making in which authentic reconciliation can take place.