Small Group Study: Divorce

This small group study is designed to facilitate thoughtful, compassionate discussion on the biblical evidence for divorce. It encourages participants to explore Scripture deeply, share perspectives, and reflect on pastoral applications. The study assumes a respectful environment and recognizes the complexity of the topic.

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Study Format

• Group Size: 4-8 participants
• Duration: 60-75 minutes
• Materials Needed: Bibles (print or digital), notepads, pens

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Opening (10 minutes)

• Welcome & Prayer: Invite God’s guidance and wisdom to lead the discussion.
• Icebreaker Question: “What is one thing you’ve heard or thought about divorce in the Bible?”
• Purpose Statement: Explain the goal: to understand what the Bible says about divorce, grounds for it, and how believers can approach it with grace and truth.

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Discussion Sections and Questions

1. God’s Ideal for Marriage (10 minutes)

• Read: Genesis 2:24; Matthew 19:6
• Questions:
  • What does Scripture say about the nature and purpose of marriage?
  • How do these verses shape your understanding of God’s ideal for marriage?

2. Biblical Grounds for Divorce (15 minutes)

• Read: Matthew 19:9; 1 Corinthians 7:15
• Questions:
  • What reasons for divorce does Jesus and Paul explicitly permit?
  • Why do you think sexual immorality and abandonment are given as grounds?
  • Are there other situations mentioned or implied in Scripture that you think relate to divorce?

3. Addressing Hard Realities: Abuse and Brokenness (10 minutes)

• Read: Ephesians 5:28-29; Malachi 2:16
• Questions:
  • How might abuse or destructive behavior affect marriage, even if not explicitly mentioned as grounds for divorce?
  • How can the church balance God’s hatred of divorce and protecting vulnerable individuals?

4. Forgiveness, Restoration, and Pastoral Care (10 minutes)

• Read: Ephesians 4:32; Psalm 34:18; 2 Corinthians 5:17
• Questions:
  • What role does forgiveness play in broken relationships?
  • How can the church support those impacted by divorce?
  • What hope does Scripture offer beyond the pain of divorce?

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Application Activity (10 minutes)

• Scenario Discussion: Present a hypothetical situation involving divorce (e.g., a couple facing abandonment or betrayal). Ask:
  • Based on what we’ve studied, how should believers respond in this situation?
  • What encouragement or guidance would you offer?

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Closing (5 minutes)

• Reflection: “What is one key takeaway from today’s discussion that will impact how you view or respond to divorce?”
• Closing Prayer: Ask for grace, healing, and wisdom in all marriages and for those affected by divorce.

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Additional Tips for Leaders

• Foster a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere.
• Encourage respectful listening and sharing.
• Remind the group this study is about understanding Scripture and pastoral care, not judging individual situations.
• Adapt questions to the group’s maturity and comfort level.

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By guiding participants through Scripture and sensitive conversation, this small group study seeks to empower believers with biblical truth and compassionate understanding regarding divorce.