Ellen Chat Conversation

Based on the writings of Ellen White, the marriage tie is considered sacred and should not be dissolved. The focus of her counsel is on building a strong and lasting union. The only ground given for the dissolution of a marriage is infidelity. Citing the Sermon on the Mount, she writes: * "Jesus declared plainly that there could be no dissolution of the marriage tie, except for unfaithfulness to the marriage vow. 'Everyone,' He said, '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) ⚠️ Reference could not be verified. Her writings strongly encourage couples to work through difficulties and strengthen their bond rather than considering separation: * **On Overcoming Difficulties:** "Though difficulties, perplexities, and discouragements may arise, let neither husband nor wife harbor the thought that their union is a mistake or a disappointment. Determine to be all that it is possible to be to each other. Continue the early attentions. In every way encourage each other in fighting the battles of life. Study to advance the happiness of each other. Let there be mutual love, mutual forbearance. Then marriage, instead of being the end of love, will be as it were the very beginning of love" (MH 360.2) . * **On Mutual Respect:** "Neither husband nor wife is to make a plea for rulership. The Lord has laid down the principle that is to guide in this matter. The husband is to cherish his wife as Christ cherishes the church. And the wife is to respect and love her husband. Both are to cultivate the spirit of kindness, being determined never to grieve or injure the other" (7T 47.1). * **On Avoiding Control:** "Neither the husband nor the wife should attempt to exercise over the other an arbitrary control. Do not try to compel each other to yield to your wishes. You cannot do this and retain each other's love. Be kind, patient, and forbearing, considerate, and courteous" (MH 361.5) . * **The Role of Religion:** "Religion is needed in the home. Only this can prevent the grievous wrongs which so often embitter married life. Only where Christ reigns can there be deep, true, unselfish love. Then soul will be knit with soul, and the two lives will blend in harmony" (5T 362.2). In summary, the only explicit cause for separation mentioned is "unfaithfulness to the marriage vow." The overwhelming counsel is for husbands and wives to cultivate love, respect, and kindness to create a permanent and happy union.