The question of divorce within the Christian community has long posed a challenge for both pastors and church members, with a wide range of perspectives on the matter. One critical aspect of this theological discussion that often goes unaddressed is the issue of abuse.

In a typical church setting, a pastor may counsel a couple or an individual enduring severe and unrepentant abuse, whether physical or emotional. The traditional stance on divorce often allows it only in cases of adultery or abandonment. This puts the pastor in a difficult position: he must uphold biblical principles while potentially placing a genuine victim of unrepentant abuse in a painful situation where they feel compelled to “obey God” by remaining in an abusive relationship indefinitely. The question arises: Does the Bible address the issue of divorce and abuse? Although Scripture does not provide explicit teaching on this topic, Dr. Swartz examines relevant exegetical issues to offer guidelines on what truly constitutes abandonment. In a clear and detailed manner, Dr. Swartz presents a compelling argument that unrepentant abuse may, in fact, qualify as a form of abandonment, thus providing one of the rare circumstances in which God permits the mercy of divorce.

“If you are hungry for substantive biblical insight into these issues [of abuse, abandonment, and divorce], you need to carefully read this book, with your Bible by your side. It will provoke master-level thinking on these issues, epitomized by the highest view of Scripture.”
-Dr. John D. Street, Jr., President, Board of Trustees for the Association of Biblical Counselors

“Divorce is a profoundly painful issue that demands our utmost care, wisdom, and compassion as counselors. Dr. Swartz's insights provide valuable guidance, especially in navigating sensitive topics like abandonment and marital abuse. His work equips pastors and counselors to navigate these complex marital issues with grace and truth, reflecting Christ’s heart in their ministry.”
-Dr. Shelbi Cullen, Assistant Professor of Biblical Counseling, The Master’s University

“I heartily recommend Abuse, Abandonment, and Divorce and believe it should be required reading for church leaders to address one of the most controversial issues with biblical convictions and a shepherd’s tender heart.” -Dr. John M. Smith, Pastor of Christ Our Hope Bible Church, Spokane, Washington

“I would urge every pastor and elder to read this book to avoid the common mistakes church leaders make when handling cases of abuse and divorce in the church.”
-Gabe Powell, M.Div., Senior Pastor of Hope Bible Church, Columbia, Maryland, Director of Hope Biblical Counseling Center

“Whatever your views are on divorce and remarriage, you will benefit from this serious yet compassionate study.”
-Dr. Michael J. Vlach, Professor of Theology, Shepherds Theological

“Reading Abuse, Abandonment, and Divorce was truly eye-opening. Be sure to assimilate the lengthy title of the book, for it masterfully describes Dr. Swartz’s goal of linking sound exegetical principles with heart wrenching real life issues, namely a biblical basis for divorce. The goal in addressing all sin is God’s glory by the restoration of believers to a Christ honoring life. Notwithstanding, Dr. Swartz challenges pastors, biblical counselors, and laypeople to think biblically so that God’s Word is unashamedly and accurately applied.”
-Dr. Eric Weathers, Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, The Master’s Academy International