Jesus About Divorce — What Did Jesus Say About Divorce?

Divorce is a challenging and sensitive topic.

It’s a word that evokes strong emotions and complex questions.

As you navigate this subject, you might wonder what Jesus, a central figure in Christianity, had to say about it.

Let’s delve into Jesus’ teachings on divorce and see how they can provide guidance and insight.

Jesus’ Core Teachings on Divorce

Jesus addressed the topic of divorce in several key passages in the Bible.

These teachings are found primarily in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark.

Here’s a breakdown of what He said:

#1. The Sermon on the Mount: Matthew 5:31-32

During the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus speaks directly about divorce:

“It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’ But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, makes her the victim of adultery, and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.” (Matthew 5:31-32, NIV)

In these verses, Jesus emphasizes the sanctity of marriage.

He challenges the prevailing Jewish practice of the time, which allowed men to divorce their wives with minimal justification.

Jesus raises the standard by stating that divorce should only be considered in cases of sexual immorality.

#2. A Question from the Pharisees: Matthew 19:3-9

The Pharisees, a group of religious leaders, questioned Jesus about divorce, seeking to test Him:

“Some Pharisees came to him to test him. They asked, ‘Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any and every reason?’ ‘Haven’t you read,’ he replied, ‘that at the beginning the Creator “made them male and female,” and said, “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh”? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.’” (Matthew 19:3-6, NIV)

Jesus refers to the creation narrative in Genesis to illustrate God’s original design for marriage.

He underscores the unity and permanence of marriage by quoting Genesis 2:24.

When the Pharisees pressed further about Moses’ allowance for divorce, Jesus explained:

“Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning. I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.” (Matthew 19:8-9, NIV)

Here, Jesus highlights that the concession for divorce was a result of human hard-heartedness, not a reflection of God’s ideal for marriage.

#3. Reaffirming Marriage in Mark: Mark 10:2-12

In the Gospel of Mark, a similar interaction with the Pharisees is recorded.

Jesus reiterates the sacredness of marriage and adds:

“Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her. And if she divorces her husband and marries another man, she commits adultery.” (Mark 10:11-12, NIV)

Jesus’ teaching emphasizes that both men and women have a responsibility to uphold the commitment of marriage.

The Broader Context of Jesus’ Teachings

Marriage as a Covenant

Jesus’ teachings on divorce are deeply rooted in the concept of marriage as a covenant.

A covenant is more than just a contract; it’s a sacred agreement witnessed by God.

This view of marriage underscores its importance and why divorce is seen as a last resort.

Compassion and Forgiveness

While Jesus upholds a high standard for marriage, His ministry was also marked by compassion and forgiveness.

In John 8:1-11, when a woman caught in adultery was brought before Him, Jesus did not condemn her but instead offered her grace and a chance for a new beginning.

“Neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.” (John 8:11, NIV)

This incident shows that Jesus is not only firm about the sanctity of marriage but also profoundly compassionate towards those who have faltered.

Understanding and Support

Jesus recognizes human frailty and the complexities of relationships.

His emphasis on forgiveness and understanding provides a framework for dealing with the pain and difficulties that can lead to divorce.

How to Apply Jesus’ Teachings Today

Understanding Jesus’ perspective on divorce can be deeply valuable in today’s context.

Here’s how you can apply His teachings to modern life:

#1. Valuing Commitment

Permanence of Marriage: Jesus’ teachings remind us that marriage is intended to be a lifelong commitment.

Valuing this permanence encourages couples to work through difficulties and seek reconciliation.

Communication and Support: Open communication and seeking support, whether through counseling or community, can help strengthen marital bonds and resolve conflicts.

#2. Addressing Sexual Immorality

Infidelity: Jesus acknowledges that infidelity is a severe breach of the marital covenant.

Addressing issues of sexual immorality with honesty and seeking healing is crucial.

Forgiveness and Restoration: While infidelity is grounds for divorce, Jesus’ broader message of forgiveness and restoration offers a path for couples willing to rebuild trust and reconcile.

#3. Compassion for Divorcees

Non-Judgmental Attitude: Jesus’ compassion towards those who have experienced divorce encourages us to be supportive and non-judgmental towards divorcees.
Offering Grace: Following Jesus’ example, offering grace and understanding to those who have gone through divorce can be a profound way to embody His teachings.

Conclusion

Jesus’ teachings on divorce are clear yet compassionate.

He upholds the sanctity of marriage while also acknowledging human weaknesses.

By emphasizing the sacredness of the marital bond, the seriousness of sexual immorality, and the importance of compassion, Jesus provides a balanced approach that values both commitment and grace.

As you reflect on these teachings, consider how they can inform and enrich your understanding of marriage and divorce.

Whether you’re navigating a difficult relationship, supporting someone through divorce, or seeking to uphold the ideals of marriage, Jesus’ words offer profound wisdom and guidance.

FAQs: Jesus About Divorce

Here are some frequently asked questions about Jesus’ teachings on divorce, based on the content discussed in the article “What Did Jesus Say About Divorce?”

1. What did Jesus say about divorce?

Jesus spoke about divorce primarily in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark.

He emphasized that marriage is a sacred, lifelong commitment.

According to Jesus, divorce should only be considered in cases of sexual immorality.

He underscored that marriage was intended to be a permanent union, as God originally designed.

2. What does “except for sexual immorality” mean in Jesus’ teachings?

In Matthew 5:31-32 and Matthew 19:9, Jesus stated that divorce is permissible in the case of sexual immorality.

This term refers to acts of infidelity or unfaithfulness within the marriage, such as adultery.

Jesus recognized that such breaches of trust could be grounds for ending the marital relationship.

3. Why did Jesus reference Genesis when discussing divorce?

Jesus referenced Genesis to highlight God’s original design for marriage.

By quoting Genesis 2:24, He emphasized that marriage involves a deep, spiritual union where two individuals become one.

This unity is intended to be lifelong and not easily broken, reinforcing the sacredness and permanence of marriage.

4. What did Jesus mean by saying “What God has joined together, let no one separate”?

In Matthew 19:6 and Mark 10:9, Jesus declared that marriage is a divine institution established by God.

When a couple marries, God joins them together in a spiritual and physical bond.

Jesus taught that this union should not be dissolved by human decision, underscoring the gravity and sanctity of marriage.

5. How did Jesus respond to the Pharisees’ questions about divorce?

When the Pharisees asked Jesus about divorce, He reiterated that it was only allowed because of human hard-heartedness and not as a part of God’s original plan.

Jesus emphasized that from the beginning, marriage was intended to be a permanent and sacred covenant.

He called for a return to the original purpose of marriage as a lifelong union.

6. What is Jesus’ stance on remarriage after divorce?

Jesus stated that remarriage after divorce, except in cases of sexual immorality, constitutes adultery.

This is found in both Matthew 5:31-32 and Mark 10:11-12.

His teaching underscores the seriousness of divorce and the importance of remaining faithful to one’s marital vows.

7. How does Jesus’ teaching on divorce align with His message of compassion and forgiveness?

Jesus balanced His firm teachings on the sanctity of marriage with a message of compassion and forgiveness.

In John 8:1-11, He showed mercy to a woman caught in adultery, highlighting His willingness to offer grace and the possibility of redemption.

This demonstrates that while Jesus upheld high standards for marriage, He also deeply cared for individuals, showing understanding and compassion towards those who have faltered.

8. What should couples do to align their marriage with Jesus’ teachings?

To align their marriage with Jesus’ teachings, couples should:

Value the permanence of marriage: Understand and respect the lifelong commitment marriage entails.
Communicate openly: Regular, honest communication helps resolve conflicts and strengthens the marital bond.
Seek support: Don’t hesitate to seek counseling or guidance from trusted sources to navigate marital challenges.
Address issues promptly: Tackle problems like infidelity or other breaches of trust with honesty and a willingness to heal and rebuild.
Practice forgiveness: Embrace the principles of forgiveness and restoration, striving to overcome difficulties and maintain unity.

9. How should Christians approach the topic of divorce today?

Christians should approach divorce with a balance of truth and grace, reflecting Jesus’ teachings.

This means upholding the sacredness and permanence of marriage while showing compassion and understanding towards those experiencing divorce.

Supporting individuals through their struggles and offering non-judgmental guidance aligns with Jesus’ example of love and forgiveness.

10. Is divorce ever justified according to Jesus?

According to Jesus, divorce is justified in cases of sexual immorality (infidelity).

However, He stressed that this should be a last resort.

The ideal is to seek reconciliation and healing within the marriage.

Jesus acknowledged human frailty but emphasized that marriage was designed to be a lifelong covenant.

11. What are some practical steps for couples to prevent divorce?

To prevent divorce, couples can:

Prioritize their relationship: Make time for each other and nurture the marital bond.
Resolve conflicts early: Address disagreements constructively and seek solutions before they escalate.
Maintain mutual respect: Value each other’s perspectives and support each other’s growth.
Seek professional help if needed: Don’t hesitate to consult a counselor or marriage therapist to work through tough issues.
Strengthen their spiritual life: For those of faith, praying together and seeking spiritual guidance can provide strength and unity.