Ellen White addressed remarriage primarily in the context of divorce and the sanctity of the marriage relationship. Here are her key points based on her writings:
1. Remarriage After Divorce: Ellen White referenced Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 19:3, noting that among the Jews, a man could put away his wife for trivial reasons, and the woman was then at liberty to remarry. She emphasized that Jesus declared there could be no dissolution of the marriage tie except for unfaithfulness to the marriage vow (fornication). She wrote: “Everyone... that putteth away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, maketh her an adulteress: and whosoever shall marry her when she is put away committeth adultery.” (MB 63)
2. The Permanence of Marriage: She stressed that marriage is a lifelong commitment and that even if a marriage proves unhappy, “it cannot be taken back.” If the couple finds they are not suited to each other, “they must endure it the best they can.” (
3SG 120.1)
3. Caution and Prayer Before Marriage: Ellen White repeatedly urged careful consideration, prayer, and seeking counsel before entering marriage, as it is a binding, lifelong relationship. (
PP 175.4,
CE 228.3)
4. No Explicit Endorsement of Remarriage Except for Biblical Grounds: Her writings do not endorse remarriage except in the case of marital unfaithfulness, in harmony with Christ’s teachings.
In summary, Ellen White taught that remarriage is only biblically permissible in the case of unfaithfulness (fornication) and that marriage is a sacred, lifelong bond not to be dissolved for trivial reasons. She urged great caution and spiritual preparation before entering marriage, as its consequences are profound and lasting.
If you need more specific statements or have a particular scenario in mind (such as remarriage after the death of a spouse), please clarify for a more targeted answer.
References:
- White, E. G. (1896). Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 63 (MB 63).
- White, E. G. (1864). Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3, p. 120.1 (
3SG 120.1).
- White, E. G. (1890). Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 175.4 (
PP 175.4).
- White, E. G. (1893). Christian Education, p. 228.3 (
CE 228.3).