Marriage and divorce in Malachi 2:10�16: An ethical reading of the abomination to Yahweh for faith communities
Year: 2014
Type: article
Abstract: The family is the bedrock that forms the indispensable foundation for discipleship. It was instituted by the Creator as his primary setting for human development and nurture (Gn 2:18�25; Ps 68:5, 6). Thus the crisis involving marriage and the family is indeed a cultural crisis of the first order. Social life quite simply cannot function effectively without the family. Whilst according to Flowers and Flowers: �Christian families face the challenge of understanding and stretching toward the divine design for life and relationships, even as they dwell in a world where hard reality find us far short of God�s plan for family living�, this article demonstrates that Malachi�s prophetic oracle (2:10�16) is an urgent motivation and challenge to Yahweh�s people in faith communities to be living embodiment of the ideals of fidelity, commitment and steadfastness. In honouring these values and ideals, the article further challenges Yahweh�s faith communities to seek concrete ways of affirming, strengthening, empowering and supporting persons and families in their efforts to live in faithfulness to the values they recognise and esteem.
Source: Verbum et Ecclesia
DOI: 10.4102/ve.v35i1.886
Authors: Blessing O. Boloje, Alphonso Groenewald
Institution: University of Pretoria
Language: English
Subfield: Religious studies
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $605
OpenAlex ID: W2000302967