Divorce and dating
I have family member who is in the process of getting a divorce, meaning that they have months to face the judge and complete the process. The family member wants to know that since the marriage contract was broken according to Scripture, do they still have to wait for the state divorce completion process or could they, if the right person comes along, start a new relationship?
I am addressing this question with the understanding that the spouse of your family member created the reason for the divorce because of his or her sin.
While God established marriage (Genesis 2:18-24; Matthew 19:4-6) and permits divorce for unfaithfulness (Matthew 19:9) and desertion (1 Corinthians 7:15), our government regulates marriage and divorce. Unfaithfulness and desertion can break the bond of marriage, but a dissolution of marriage is required to end the marriage legally.
Your family member would do well to recognize the role of government in divorce and to act appropriately. In addition, your family member will want to keep in mind how his or her actions can affect others. Entering into a new relationship before the divorce is final could certainly raise questions in people’s minds.