There’s a persistent urban myth that Christians divorce at the same rate as the general public. This misconception is often attributed to the Barna Group. However, the issue lies in how they define “Christian.” Their research often includes anyone who identifies with Christian beliefs, regardless of their actual faith practice. For example, some individuals may claim Christianity simply because they believe in God or were born in a Western country.
The truth, however, paints a different picture. Research shows that the divorce rate for those who actively attend church regularly (defined as attending in the past week) is significantly lower – 27% less – than those who do not. Furthermore, in this group of active church attendees, a remarkable 71% of women are still married to their first spouse. This data comes from research initiated by Shaunti Feldhahn in cooperation with the Barna Group.
The bottom line is clear: Christian values have a profound and positive impact on marital harmony! This holds true even in second marriages, where the application of these principles can lead to greater stability and fulfillment.
-Jim
#marriagematters #ChristCenteredMarriage
[1] “You Will be Made to Care” by Erick Erickson and Bill Blankschaen, (Regnery Publishing, 2016), 218.