Can a married couple (previously faithful) who now lives together, but has no marriage certificate of any sort, separate, remarry each other, confess sin publicly, and be accepted by the local church?

QUESTION: Can a married couple (previously faithful) who now lives together, but has no marriage certificate of any sort, separate, remarry each other, confess sin publicly, and be accepted by the local church?

ANSWER: If the man and woman are not scripturally and legally married they are not living in a God ordained marriage, but are in a sinful relationship! They, indeed, need to sever the relationship, repent of their wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thoughts of their hearts may be forgiven (Acts 8:22). At this point, they should be accepted in full fellowship as brother and sister in Christ, since they will have done what God demands. If each is then scripturally free to marry, and do so, then they should be accepted as husband and wife!