Rev. Kesiena Esiri Says Remarrying After Divorce Is Living in Adultery
Reverend Kesiena Esiri Nigerian Popular Gospel Preacher has make it clear to all Christian communities following his recent remarks declaring that remarrying after divorce amounts to adultery, according to biblical teaching.
Speaking during a midweek service at his church, Rev. Kesiena referenced Jesus’ words in the Gospels where He warned that “whoever divorces his spouse and marries another commits adultery.” The message, which was shared widely online, reignited long-standing debates among believers about how divorce and remarriage should be understood in light of Scripture.
A Call Back to Biblical Principles
During the teaching, Rev. Kesiena acknowledged that marital challenges are real and that many couples today face difficulties that can strain even the strongest relationships. However, he emphasized that divorce should not be treated lightly or seen as an easy escape from marital issues.
“Marriage is a covenant before God,” he said. “It’s not something to walk in and out of at will. When challenges come, our first response should be prayer, forgiveness, and wise counsel — not separation.”
He explained that the Christian view of marriage should always reflect the faithfulness and endurance that God demonstrates toward His people. In his words, love that endures through hardship is one of the clearest expressions of divine grace in everyday life.
“Don’t Remarry After Divorce”
In the sermon, Rev. Kesiena stressed that his position was not about judgment or condemnation but about restoring respect for God’s word and the sanctity of marriage. He noted that while society often normalizes remarriage after divorce, Scripture calls believers to a higher standard of commitment and accountability.
Quoting from the book of Matthew, he reminded the congregation that Jesus’ teachings were clear on the subject of marital fidelity and permanence.
Still, Rev. Kesiena encouraged compassion and understanding for those who have gone through separation, urging the church to offer healing and support, not criticism.
“Some have been through painful experiences — betrayal, abuse, abandonment,” he said. “The goal is not to condemn but to help people find healing and restoration in Christ. Every story deserves grace, but grace does not cancel truth.”
Mixed Reactions Among Christians
The pastor’s comments have sparked mixed reactions both online and within local congregations. On social media, clips of the sermon have been shared thousands of times, generating passionate discussions among believers and theologians alike.
Some Christians applauded his stance, describing it as a courageous reminder of biblical standards in an age when many see marriage as temporary or conditional.
A supporter commented, “Thank you, Reverend, for standing by the Word. The truth is hard, but it’s what sets us free.”
Others, however, called for a more nuanced and compassionate interpretation of Scripture, particularly in cases involving domestic abuse or abandonment. Many argued that the church must be careful not to add emotional burdens to those who have already endured brokenness.
One online user wrote, “We must remember that Jesus also showed mercy to the brokenhearted. God’s heart is not only for rules but for restoration.”
A Debate as Old as the Church
The issue of divorce and remarriage has long been one of the most debated topics in Christian theology. From the early church fathers to modern pastors, interpretations of Jesus’ words in the Gospels have varied — some viewing remarriage as a continuing state of adultery, while others interpret it through the lens of grace and redemption.
Biblical scholars often point out that while the Old Testament permitted divorce under certain conditions, Jesus’ teachings in the New Testament raised the standard, emphasizing forgiveness and lifelong commitment.
Rev. Kesiena’s remarks, therefore, fall within a broader theological conversation — one that challenges modern believers to reconcile faith with the complexities of human relationships.
Focus on Restoration, Not Condemnation
Despite the controversy, Rev. Kesiena made it clear that his teaching was born out of a desire to restore marriages and families, not to shame anyone who has experienced divorce. He encouraged believers to prioritize communication, humility, and prayer when facing marital conflict.
He also appealed to church leaders and counselors to create safe spaces for couples in crisis, offering biblical guidance and emotional support instead of judgment.
“When we help couples find their way back to each other, we’re not only saving a home — we’re healing a generation,” he said.
A Message That Stirs Reflection
The sermon has continued to circulate widely, prompting deep reflection among Christians about the meaning of love, covenant, and commitment. Many who watched the clip online admitted it challenged them to look inward and reassess how they view marriage — not merely as a social contract, but as a sacred promise before God.
As the discussion grows, church leaders across Nigeria and beyond are weighing in, emphasizing that while interpretations may differ, the shared goal remains the same: to honor God through faithful, enduring relationships.
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