What does Matthew 19:3-9 really mean?

Matthew 19:3-9 is about Jesus discussing the sanctity and permanence of marriage, stating that God intended for marriage to be a lifelong commitment between a man and a woman, and condemning divorce except in cases of sexual immorality.

3 And Pharisees came up to him and tested him by asking, “Is it lawful to divorce one’s wife for any cause?”
4 He answered, “Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female,
5 and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’?
6 So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”
7 They said to him, “Why then did Moses command one to give a certificate of divorce and to send her away?”
8 He said to them, “Because of your hardness of heart Moses allowed you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so.
9 And I say to you: whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery.”

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Setting the Scene for Matthew 19:3-9

In Matthew chapter 19, we find Jesus teaching a crowd of people who have gathered around Him. The scene is set in the countryside, with the sun shining down on the group as they sit on the grassy hillsides listening intently to His words. Among the crowd are the Pharisees, who have come to test Jesus with questions about marriage and divorce.

As Jesus speaks, a group of Pharisees approach Him, seeking to trap Him with a question about divorce. They ask Him whether it is lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any reason. Jesus, aware of their intentions, responds by taking them back to the beginning, to the creation of man and woman, emphasizing the sacredness and permanence of marriage. He explains that what God has joined together, man must not separate.

The Pharisees, taken aback by Jesus’ response, press Him further, questioning why Moses allowed divorce if marriage is meant to be permanent. Jesus, in His wisdom, clarifies that Moses permitted divorce due to the hardness of people’s hearts, but it was not what God originally intended. He reaffirms the sanctity of marriage, stating that whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another commits adultery. The crowd listens in awe as Jesus imparts this profound teaching on marriage and divorce.

What is Matthew 19:3-9 about?

Jesus underscores the profound significance of marriage in this verse, highlighting its sanctity and the commitment it requires. Jesus emphasizes the need for couples to cherish, respect, and honor the sacred bond they share by emphasizing the permanence of marriage and allowing divorce only in cases of adultery. This teaching reinforces the idea that marriage is a covenant not to be taken lightly but rather something to be cherished and upheld with great care and reverence. The depth of commitment and love required to uphold a marriage even in the face of challenges is considerable. Reflect on the trust and fidelity necessary to maintain the sanctity of the marital bond. Think about how this teaching calls us to reconsider our views on marriage and to prioritize the values of faithfulness, respect, and commitment within our own relationships. Jesus’ words invite us to reflect on the sacredness of marriage and consider how we can nurture and protect this divine institution in our lives and society.

Understanding what Matthew 19:3-9 really means

In Matthew 19:3-9, we witness a poignant exchange between Jesus and the Pharisees, delving into the intricate topic of divorce. The Pharisees, in their customary manner of testing Jesus, inquire about the permissibility of divorcing one’s spouse for any reason. Jesus, in response, redirects their focus to the foundational narrative of creation, underscoring the sanctity and intended permanence of the marital union. By referencing the creation account where God established marriage as a union between one man and one woman, Jesus emphasizes the divine origin and design of this sacred institution.

The key phrases Jesus employs in this discourse carry profound implications for understanding the essence of marriage. When Jesus cites, “What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate,” He highlights the divine authority behind the marital bond, suggesting that it should not be casually dissolved by human whims. This statement underscores the gravity of the commitment entered into through marriage, urging individuals to approach this covenant with reverence and steadfastness.

Drawing from related biblical passages such as Genesis 2:24, Malachi 2:16, and Ephesians 5:31-32, we glean further insights into the biblical perspective on marriage and divorce. Genesis 2:24, echoed by Jesus, reinforces the concept of marriage as a divinely ordained union. Malachi 2:16 portrays God’s aversion to divorce, depicting it as a form of violence against one’s partner. Additionally, Paul’s words in Ephesians 5:31-32 draw parallels between the marital relationship and the profound connection between Christ and the Church, emphasizing sacrificial love and unity.

In our contemporary society marked by soaring divorce rates and shifting attitudes towards marriage, Jesus’ teachings in this passage resonate deeply. They challenge believers to uphold the sanctity of marriage as a lifelong covenant rather than a disposable contract. By exhorting couples to prioritize reconciliation and perseverance in the face of challenges, this passage advocates for a renewed commitment to the enduring nature of marriage.

Consider a couple who weathered tumultuous storms in their marriage, grappling with betrayal and financial hardships. Despite teetering on the edge of divorce, they chose to seek counseling and spiritual guidance. Through unwavering faith, concerted efforts, and divine intervention, they were able to mend their fractured relationship. This anecdote vividly illustrates the transformative power of viewing marriage as a sacred, unbreakable bond, underscoring the significance of resilience and faith in navigating marital trials.

In conclusion, the teachings encapsulated in Matthew 19:3-9 beckon believers to embrace a profound reverence for marriage, viewing it not merely as a societal construct but as a divine covenant reflecting God’s enduring love and faithfulness. By upholding these principles, individuals and couples can cultivate deeper, more meaningful relationships that align with God’s original design for marriage.

How should we approach marriage and divorce ethically?

When considering marriage and divorce ethically, it is essential to understand that marriage is a sacred union that should not be taken lightly. It is a commitment to love, honor, and support one another through both the joys and challenges of life. Divorce should not be seen as a solution to difficulties within a marriage, but rather as a last resort after all efforts to reconcile have been exhausted.

Marriages should be entered into with thoughtful consideration and mutual respect for one another. It is important for couples to communicate openly, prioritize their relationship, and work together to overcome obstacles that arise. Divorce should be a decision made with careful reflection on the impact it will have on both parties, as well as any children involved. Upholding the sanctity of the marital bond and treating each other with love, understanding, and compassion is the ultimate way to approach marriage and divorce ethically.

Application

Think of your marriage like a vital project at work or the way you nurture your family. Matthew 19:3-9 urges us to honor our vows and stay steadfast. Cherish, protect, and nurture your relationship, even when the world undermines these values. How will you actively reinforce your commitment to your marriage today?