In Ezra, chapter ten, verse eleven, the actions of Ezra and the Israelite community at this stage of history should not be considered a standard for those under the new covenant. Concerning marriage and divorce for New Testament believers, the scriptures teach the following: The believer must not wed an unbeliever, as in First Corinthians seven, verse thirty-nine, and Second Corinthians six, verse fourteen. However, if a person becomes a believer after marriage and the spouse remains an unbeliever, they should not seek divorce if the other wants the marriage to continue, as in First Corinthians seven, verse twelve. However, divorce is allowed in situations of immorality or abandonment.
Ezra the priest stood up and said: Having fully represented the enormity of their sin and urged them to dissolve their unlawful connections, he was gratified by receiving a prompt acknowledgment of the justice of his reproof and a promise of compliance with his recommendation. But as the weather was ungenial and the defaulters were too numerous to be passed in review at one time, it was resolved that a commission should be appointed to examine the whole matter. These commissioners, assisted by the judges and elders of the respective cities, made a minute investigation into every case, and after three months’ labor completely removed all traces of the abuse. Doubtless, an adequate provision was made for the repudiated wives and children, according to the means and circumstances of the husbands.
There is hope concerning people, when they are convinced, that it is good to part with their sins, but that it is necessary; we must do it, or we are undone. So rich is the mercy, and so plenteous the redemption of God, that there is hope for the vilest who hear the gospel, and are willing to accept of free salvation. When sinners mourn for their sins, and tremble at the word of God, there is hope that they will forsake them. To affect others with godly sorrow or love to God, we must ourselves be affected. It was carefully agreed how this affair should be carried on. That which is hastily resolved seldom proves lasting.