Gospel artist Bishop Vusumuzi Maculuve has spoken out about the rising number of divorces, including those within the church, citing a shift from biblical principles as a major contributor. In a recent statement, Maculuve confirmed his divorce from Tekhaya Shongwe, whom he married in November last year. This is his second divorce, following his separation from his second wife, Lindelwa Shongwe, in 2024.
According to Maculuve, marriage is a sacred covenant before God and should not be treated as an ordinary contract. He believes that people have moved away from the principles that should guide marriage, leading to an increase in divorces. Maculuve emphasized that although generations change, the principles of God remain the same. He pointed to the importance of restoring respect for marriage, which should be honored not only by the couple but also by those around them.
Maculuve highlighted the importance of love and honor between spouses, referring to biblical teachings that call on husbands to love their wives sacrificially, as Christ loves the church, and wives to respect their husbands. He believes that these principles are sometimes overlooked in marriages, leaving couples vulnerable when challenges arise. The bishop also stressed the importance of prayer, saying that marriage is under attack and that couples need to remain grounded in their faith.
The bishop emphasized the need for accountability in marriage, saying that people should remember that they will ultimately answer to God for how they handle the marriage covenant. He noted that God's principles help people stand through trying times, but when challenges come, the enemy can steal the Word of God in them. Maculuve cautioned that when the foundations of marriage shift, couples can find it difficult to withstand challenges.
Maculuve also spoke about the role of the church in addressing the issue of rising divorces. He cautioned the church against judging people who divorce, noting that some marriages end because of deep hurt, abuse, or brokenness. Instead, the church's responsibility is to teach biblical principles, strengthen families through prayer, and help restore those who have been wounded.
The bishop expressed hope that people would return to what he described as God's principles for marriage as outlined in the Bible. He emphasized that marriage is a covenant that requires commitment, love, and respect. Maculuve's reflections on marriage and divorce come at a time when the issue is becoming increasingly prevalent in Eswatini.
The Swazi Observer notes that Maculuve's statements have sparked a renewed conversation about the importance of biblical principles in marriage. As a prominent gospel artist, his views on marriage and divorce are likely to resonate with many in the Christian community. The issue of rising divorces in Eswatini remains a pressing concern, with many calling for a return to traditional values and principles.
Key points
- A shift from biblical principles of love, respect, prayer, and accountability is contributing to the breakdown of marriages in Eswatini.
- Bishop Maculuve has confirmed his divorce from Tekhaya Shongwe, his second divorce in two years.
- The church's role in addressing the issue of rising divorces is crucial, with a focus on teaching biblical principles and strengthening families through prayer.
