The Bible offers complex perspectives on adultery, divorce, and forgiveness, but doesn't directly address whether a relationship that began in adultery can be blessed by God. Here's a breakdown of relevant principles and considerations:
Biblical Perspectives on Adultery:
* Adultery is explicitly condemned: The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:14) and numerous other passages (e.g., Hebrews 13:4, Proverbs 6:32) strongly condemn adultery as a sin. It's seen as a betrayal of trust, a violation of the marriage covenant, and harmful to all involved.
* Marriage is considered sacred: The Bible elevates marriage as a covenant between a man and a woman, reflecting God's relationship with His people. It is intended to be a lifelong commitment (Matthew 19:6).
* Forgiveness is central: The Bible emphasizes God's forgiveness through Jesus Christ. All sins, including adultery, can be forgiven if a person repents (turns away from sin) and seeks God's mercy (1 John 1:9).
* Consequences of sin: Even after forgiveness, there may be natural consequences for past actions. These consequences can affect individuals, families, and relationships.
Factors to Consider:
1. Repentance: Genuine repentance by both parties is crucial. This includes acknowledging the wrongfulness of the adultery, feeling remorse, confessing to God and those who were hurt, and making a sincere effort to change.
2. Impact on Previous Marriages: The dissolution of prior marriages is a serious matter. The Bible addresses divorce in Matthew 19, with Jesus acknowledging its existence due to human hardness of heart. However, it is not treated lightly. How the previous marriages ended and the impact on any former spouses and children are critical considerations.
3. Commitment to the New Relationship: If the adulterous relationship has led to a committed, monogamous relationship after repentance and resolution of previous marital commitments, the couple needs to build their relationship on a foundation of honesty, trust, and commitment to God's principles.
4. Seeking Counsel: Seeking guidance from pastors, Christian counselors, or trusted spiritual mentors can provide valuable support and discernment.
5. Restitution: To the extent possible, restitution should be made for the harm caused by the adultery. This may involve apologizing, seeking forgiveness, and addressing financial or emotional damage.
Possible Outcomes and Interpretations:
* God's Grace and Redemption: Some believe that God's grace is sufficient to redeem even the most difficult situations. If there is genuine repentance, forgiveness, and a commitment to building a God-honoring relationship, God can work to bring healing and blessing.
* Ongoing Challenges: The relationship may face ongoing challenges due to the way it began. The past may cast a shadow, and rebuilding trust can be difficult.
* Differing Views: Christians hold varying views on the permissibility of remarriage after divorce, even in cases involving adultery. Some denominations have stricter interpretations than others.
In summary:
While the Bible condemns adultery, it also emphasizes God's forgiveness and the possibility of redemption. Whether a relationship that began in adultery can be blessed by God is a complex issue with no easy answer. It depends heavily on the presence of genuine repentance, the resolution of previous marital commitments, the commitment to building a God-honoring relationship, and seeking wise counsel. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to seek God's guidance and follow their conscience, while remaining accountable to their faith community.