ANSWER: There is only one scriptural reason for divorce, i.e., “for the cause of fornication” (Matthew 5:32; Matthew 19:3-9). Certainly then, without this scriptural reason, there can be no divorce. This does not mean, however, that God expects one to live in a life-threatening situation. Anyone whose life is in danger has a scriptural right to appeal to law for “protection” (Romans 13:1-6). In some cases “protection” may possibly necessitate separate living arrangements until the danger has passed. Nevertheless, such a necessity in no way constitutes a divorce; neither does it relieve either of the parties of their responsibilities to the other, and certainly it does not justify unscriptural relationships outside the marriage.