---
title: "Chapter 24: Of Marriage and Divorce | RP Testimony"
description: "Chapter 24 of the RP Testimony: Of Marriage and Divorce. Read the 2026 RPCNA Constitution text, Scripture proofs, and the corresponding Westminster Confession chapter."
canonical: "https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/"
source: "https://ctkrp.org/assets/rpcna-constitution-2026.pdf#page=86"
---

# Chapter 24: Of Marriage and Divorce | RP Testimony

1. Marriage is an ordinance of God; however, to be unmarried is also an equally honorable state, and it may be the will of God for a person to remain single. Every effort should be made to submit to the direction of God in this matter, and to maintain a chaste and obedient life style. 1 Cor. 7:7-8.

2. Premarital sex relations or promiscuous sex practices as well as homosexuality and other perversions of the natural order are violations of God’s law and purpose. All should strive to discipline their sexual desires, maintain purity of thought and practice, and avoid situations which lead to sexual temptation. 1 Cor. 6:9, 15-20; 1 Cor. 5:1-5, 9-11; 1 Cor. 7:8-9; Rom. 1:26-28; Phil. 4:8; Prov. 5.

3. By God’s appointment the marriage relationship is to continue as long as both parties are living. Marriage may not be contracted for any other period. After the death of one party the other party may lawfully marry another. Matt. 19:4-6; Rom. 7:2-3; Gen. 2:24-25; 1 Cor. 7:39.

4. Marriage is a covenant relationship made before God between a man and a woman. Prov. 2:17; Mal. 2:14; cf. Hos. 2:16-23.

5. The validity of marriage depends on the mutual agreement of the parties, rather than upon official administration; yet for the glory of God and the protection of the parties, and so that the greatness of the privilege and the seriousness of the responsibility of the marriage may be properly impressed on the parties, marriage should be contracted in the presence of a qualified officer and competent witnesses. Matt. 19:6; 1 Cor. 10:31; 1 Pet. 2:13.

6. The marriage of Christians should ordinarily be solemnized by an ordained minister of the Gospel. 1 Cor. 14:33, 40.

7. Parties to marriage should comply with the civil laws regarding marriage as long as these laws are not contrary to Scripture. 1 Pet. 2:13.

8. God created man, male and female, with specific responsibilities to each other. Gen. 2:18-25.

9. As sexual beings, men and women are, in ordinary circumstances, to marry for the expression of love, the satisfaction of their needs, and the mutual enjoyment of each other, as well as the continuation of the race. 1 Cor. 7:3-5.

10. God has ordained a natural order within the family: the husband is the head of the family, having a relationship to his wife like that of Christ to the Church. He is ordinarily the provider for his family. He is to love his wife as Christ loves His Church and as his own body. He is to love, discipline and instruct his children, and to lead his family in worship. 1 Tim. 5:8; Eph. 5:25-28; 1 Pet. 3: 7; Prov. 19:18; Prov. 22:6; Eph. 6:4; Deut. 6:4-9.

11. The wife is to be a helper to her husband. The Scripture commands submission to her husband in the Lord. She is to join her husband in the wise use of family resources, the care and instruction of children and the maintenance of the home as a place of love, cheerfulness and hospitality. Gen. 2:18; Eph. 5:22-24; Prov. 31:10- 31; 1 Pet. 3:1, 6.

12. Children are commanded to obey and honor their parents in the Lord. Ex. 20:12; Deut. 5:16; Eph. 6:1-3.

13. Family administration involves mutual responsibility. The exchange or confusion of roles in the family in ordinary circumstances results in God’s displeasure and in consequent unhappiness. Eph. 5:22; Eph. 6:4; Ps. 128; Col. 3: 18-21.

14. We deny that the submission in the Lord of a wife to her husband contradicts the equality, in value and dignity, of her person to his. Gen. 1:27; Gal. 3:28.

15. While we abhor the sinful abuses of a husband’s authority and the abdication of his responsibilities within marriage, common since the Fall, we deny that his headship is, in and of itself, a result of sin. Gen. 2:18; 1 Cor. 11:3-10; Eph. 5:23; 1 Tim. 2:11-13.

16. Although in certain circumstances in the service of God it may be unwise for a person to marry, we deny that Scripture forbids officers of the Church to marry. 1 Cor. 9:5; 1 Tim. 4:3.

17. We deny that marriage is a more spiritual state than the single life, or that it is necessary for eternal salvation. 1 Cor. 7:7-8.

18. We deny that marriage is necessary for officers in the Church. 1 Cor. 7:7.

19. Unborn children are living creatures in the image of God. From the moment of conception to birth they are objects of God’s providence as they are being prepared by Him for the responsibilities and privileges of postnatal life. Unborn children are to be treated as human persons in all decisions and actions involving them. Deliberately induced abortion, except possibly to save the mother’s life, is murder. Ex. 20:13; Ex. 21:22-23; Ps. 139:13-16.

20. Christians should not marry those who give only nominal adherence to the Christian faith. 1 Cor. 7:39; 2 Cor. 6:14.

21. We reject the last sentence in paragraph 4 of the Confession of Faith.

22. The prohibition of marriage with a deceased wife’s sister or a deceased husband’s brother is not warranted by Scripture. Lev. 18:18; Deut. 25:5-10.

23. Before seeking divorce, it is the responsibility of the innocent party to attempt reconciliation with the guilty party in the same manner as in any case of sin, first by his or her own appeal, and then, if need be, by calling on the elders of the church. Matt. 18:15-17.

24. In any marriage threatened with dissolution, or even if divorce has occurred, both parties ought to strive for reconciliation on the basis of repentance for sin and willingness to forgive. Eph. 5:25-33; Eph. 4:31-32; 1 Cor. 7:10-14.

25. Members of the household of faith should beware of seeking marriage counsel from unbelievers or from those who have failed to integrate their faith with their professional work. Matt. 18:15-17; 2 Cor. 6:14-17.

26. Desertion can be a ground of divorce only when the departing person is an unbeliever. 1 Cor. 7:15; Matt. 18:17.

27. If the unrepentant guilty party in a divorce marries another, he commits adultery. Matt. 19:9.

28. Where the guilty party shows evidence of repentance for the sin of breaking a marriage, the Church may receive or restore him or her to membership. Gal. 6:1. Education of Children

29. God is the source of all truth. The knowledge which man can attain merely reflects part of God’s creation, and cannot properly be understood apart from God. Therefore there can be no true education without a knowledge of God and His dealings with man, as revealed in the Scriptures. He enlightens man’s mind in the understanding of the physical and cultural world. Christians are to ask the aid of the Holy Spirit in the educational task. Ps. 24:1; Ps. 111:10; Prov. 2:6; Prov. 9: 10; Ex. 31:3-6.

30. Education of children is primarily the responsibility of parents, though they may delegate part of this responsibility to the church or other agencies. The earliest and most important educational institution is the home, where children are taught, by precept and example, basic principles of godly living. Parents should educate each child to the extent of their resources and the child’s ability, seeking to develop his God-given talents that he may serve God most fully and effectively. In order to promote the general welfare, the state may prescribe educational standards and should provide educational opportunities, both in harmony with God’s law. Deut. 6:6-9; Ps. 34:11; Ps. 78:2-7; Prov. 22:6.

31. In the providence of God public schools have provided great social benefits. Yet in serving a highly pluralistic society they have attempted to be religiously and morally “neutral,” which is sinful. To a large extent instruction is based on a secular, humanistic philosophy which ignores God and sees man’s welfare as the highest good. Local schools vary widely, however, according to the standards of the community and the quality of the teachers. All Christians, especially those who are teachers, school administrators or board members, should bear witness to the whole truth of God as it relates to education. Matt. 12:30; 2 Sam. 23:3-4.

32. Where necessary and possible, Christian parents should cooperate in supporting or establishing schools whose curriculum presents a biblical world and life view, and place their children in them. This requires maintenance of the highest academic quality along with Christian orientation in every subject and activity.

33. We reject any attempt by the state to force a secular, humanistic philosophy on Christian schools.

34. Parents should take care to counteract any unbiblical teaching given to their children, whether in public or Christian schools. As youth increase in their knowledge and discernment, the home and the Church should help them to examine what is presented in school, to distinguish between God-given truths and human theories, and to integrate the facts learned with a Christian view of man and the universe. Isa. 8:20.

## For kids — a study explanation (ages 10–13)

These explanations are separate from the official text above.

Words to knowMarriage covenantThe solemn bond before God between a husband and wife.AdulterySexual unfaithfulness to a spouse.DesertionWillfully abandoning a spouse and the responsibilities of marriage.CovenantA relationship God establishes with promises and responsibilities.RevelationGod making himself and his will known to us.RejectsSays that a teaching is wrong and must not be accepted.CivilConcerning government and public life, rather than church government.RepentanceTurning from sin to God with sorrow for sin and a desire to obey him.OrdainedSet apart by the church for a church office.GospelThe good news of salvation through Jesus Christ.

### Testimony 24.1

Both marriage and being single are honorable. God may call a person to remain single. In either case, we should seek his guidance and live with purity.

[Read original point 1 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-1)

### Testimony 24.2

Sexual activity outside God’s design is sinful. Christians should pursue purity in thought and action and avoid circumstances that encourage sexual temptation.

[Read original point 2 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-2)

### Testimony 24.3

Marriage is intended to last for the spouses’ lives, rather than for a fixed term. A surviving spouse may remarry after the other’s death.

[Read original point 3 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-3)

### Testimony 24.4

Marriage is a covenant made before God between one man and one woman.

[Read original point 4 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-4)

### Testimony 24.5

Marriage involves a man and woman agreeing to become husband and wife. It is more than a ceremony. Their promises should still be made publicly and seriously before witnesses and a qualified official.

[Read original point 5 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-5)

### Testimony 24.6

A Christian wedding should ordinarily be conducted by an ordained gospel minister.

[Read original point 6 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-6)

### Testimony 24.7

Couples should follow civil marriage laws where those laws do not conflict with Scripture.

[Read original point 7 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-7)

### Testimony 24.8

God created men and women with responsibilities toward one another.

[Read original point 8 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-8)

### Testimony 24.9

Marriage provides for mutual love, sexual intimacy and enjoyment, and the continuation of the human family.

[Read original point 9 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-9)

### Testimony 24.10

A husband should lead by loving his wife as Christ loves the church, ordinarily providing for the household, caring for his children, and leading family worship.

[Read original point 10 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-10)

### Testimony 24.11

A wife should help her husband and follow his leadership in the Lord. They share in caring wisely for their home and possessions, raising their children, and welcoming others.

[Read original point 11 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-11)

### Testimony 24.12

Children should obey and honor their parents in the Lord.

[Read original point 12 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-12)

### Testimony 24.13

Family life involves shared responsibility within the roles Scripture assigns. The Testimony warns against exchanging or confusing those roles in ordinary circumstances.

[Read original point 13 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-13)

### Testimony 24.14

The Testimony rejects the idea that a wife’s submission makes her less valuable or dignified than her husband. Both have equal personal worth.

[Read original point 14 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-14)

### Testimony 24.15

The Testimony condemns abusive authority and neglect by husbands. It also rejects the idea that a husband’s headship itself began as a consequence of sin.

[Read original point 15 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-15)

### Testimony 24.16

The Testimony rejects forbidding church officers to marry. Particular circumstances may make marriage unwise, but Scripture does not impose a general ban.

[Read original point 16 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-16)

### Testimony 24.17

The Testimony rejects treating marriage as spiritually superior to singleness or necessary for salvation.

[Read original point 17 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-17)

### Testimony 24.18

The Testimony rejects requiring church officers to be married.

[Read original point 18 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-18)

### Testimony 24.19

Unborn children are people made in God’s image and should be protected. The Testimony condemns deliberately ending an unborn child’s life, with a possible exception to save the mother’s life. Talk with a parent or pastor if you have questions about this difficult subject.

[Read original point 19 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-19)

### Testimony 24.20

Christians should not marry someone whose Christianity is only nominal, meaning a label without a genuine profession of faith.

[Read original point 20 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-20)

### Testimony 24.21

The Testimony rejects the last sentence of the original WCF 24.4, which applies the same restrictions to a spouse’s relatives as to one’s own blood relatives. RPT 24.22 explains that a deceased spouse’s sibling is not automatically forbidden as a marriage partner.

[Read original point 21 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-21)

### Testimony 24.22

The Testimony rejects a blanket prohibition on marrying a deceased wife’s sister or a deceased husband’s brother, saying Scripture does not warrant it.

[Read original point 22 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-22)

### Testimony 24.23

Before seeking divorce, the spouse who has been wronged should seek repentance and restoration of the marriage, asking the elders for help when needed. Seeking help does not mean hiding abuse or staying in immediate danger.

[Read original point 23 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-23)

### Testimony 24.24

Spouses should seek reconciliation through repentance and forgiveness when a marriage is threatened, and even after divorce.

[Read original point 24 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-24)

### Testimony 24.25

Christians should be cautious about marriage counsel from those whose advice is not shaped by biblical faith.

[Read original point 25 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-25)

### Testimony 24.26

The Testimony says that abandonment is grounds for divorce only when the spouse who leaves is an unbeliever. This is a serious matter to discuss with the church’s elders.

[Read original point 26 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-26)

### Testimony 24.27

An unrepentant spouse guilty of breaking the marriage commits adultery by marrying someone else.

[Read original point 27 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-27)

### Testimony 24.28

The church may receive or restore a person who shows repentance for sinfully breaking a marriage.

[Read original point 28 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-28)

### Testimony 24.29

All truth comes from God, so education should understand the world in light of his revelation. Christians should seek the Spirit’s help in teaching and learning.

[Read original point 29 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-29)

### Testimony 24.30

Parents have the main responsibility for their children’s education, even when teachers help. Families should encourage godliness and learning. Government may provide schools and standards that agree with God’s law.

[Read original point 30 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-30)

### Testimony 24.31

Public schools have done good things, but their teaching is not always guided by God’s Word. Schools differ. Christians should look carefully at what is taught and speak faithfully about God’s truth.

[Read original point 31 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-31)

### Testimony 24.32

When needed and possible, Christian parents should help start or support schools that teach well and understand the world in light of the Bible.

[Read original point 32 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-32)

### Testimony 24.33

The Testimony rejects the state forcing a secular, human-centered philosophy on Christian schools.

[Read original point 33 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-33)

### Testimony 24.34

Parents and the church should help children compare what they learn at school with Scripture. They should correct errors and help children see how all learning relates to God’s truth.

[Read original point 34 and its Scripture proofs →](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/#point-34)

### Talk about it

How can we show love and faithfulness in our families?

### Discuss and remember

Read the chapter together, then choose a question to talk about.

- How should love and faithfulness shape family life?
- How can we show kindness to people whose families face difficulties?

#### Scripture to remember

Ephesians 5:2

[Read the memory passage in our Bible reader →](https://ctkrp.org/bible/?q=Ephesians%205%3A2)

Read the passage in context. Explain it in your own words, then practice one short phrase at a time. Review it together during the week.

#### Put it into practice

Do one helpful task for your household without being asked.

[Find help for family worship](https://ctkrp.org/family-worship/)

Original source: [2026 RPCNA Constitution](https://ctkrp.org/assets/rpcna-constitution-2026.pdf#page=86)

## Related reading

- [Westminster Confession · Chapter 24](https://ctkrp.org/confession/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/)
- [Chapter 23](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-23-civil-magistrate/)
- [Chapter 25](https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-25-church/)

Canonical page: https://ctkrp.org/testimony/chapter-24-marriage-and-divorce/