Divorce is a deeply personal and often painful subject.
For Christians, understanding what Jesus said about divorce in the Gospel of Matthew is crucial.
It helps navigate this sensitive issue in a way that aligns with their faith.
Let’s dive into Jesus’ teachings on divorce as recorded in Matthew, and see how they apply to modern life.
Jesus’ Teaching on Divorce in Matthew
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus addresses divorce directly in two main passages: Matthew 5:31-32 and Matthew 19:3-9.
These teachings are foundational for understanding the Christian perspective on marriage and divorce.
Matthew 5:31-32: The Sermon on the Mount
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said:
“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)
Here, Jesus acknowledges the Old Testament law from Deuteronomy 24:1-4, which allowed a man to divorce his wife by giving her a certificate of divorce.
However, Jesus goes beyond this law to emphasize the sanctity and permanence of marriage.
He introduces a higher standard by stating that divorce should only be considered in cases of “sexual immorality.”
Key Points from Matthew 5:31-32:
- Old Testament Law: Divorce was permitted with a certificate, reflecting the cultural practices of the time.
- Jesus’ Standard: Divorce is only permissible in cases of sexual immorality.
This term is often understood to mean adultery but can encompass other serious sexual sins.
- Implications for Remarriage: Marrying someone who has been divorced for reasons other than sexual immorality leads to adultery.
Matthew 19:3-9: The Pharisees’ Question
In Matthew 19:3-9, Jesus addresses divorce again when the Pharisees try to test Him with a tricky question:
“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.’
‘Why then,’ they asked, ‘did Moses command that a man give his wife a certificate of divorce and send her away?’
Jesus replied, ‘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 19:3-9, NIV)
In this passage, Jesus reiterates His stance from Matthew 5 but adds more context.
He explains that God’s original design for marriage was a lifelong union between a man and a woman.
The provision for divorce in the Mosaic Law was a concession due to human hard-heartedness, not the ideal.
Key Points from Matthew 19:3-9:
- God’s Original Design: Marriage is meant to be a permanent, unbreakable union.
- Mosaic Concession: The law allowed for divorce because of people’s hardness of heart, not because it was the desired outcome.
- Exception Clause: Divorce is only permissible for sexual immorality.
Remarriage after such a divorce does not result in adultery.
Interpreting Jesus’ Teachings Today
Jesus’ teachings on divorce in Matthew present a high standard for marriage.
Here’s how to understand and apply these teachings today:
#1. The Sanctity of Marriage
Jesus underscores that marriage is a sacred covenant designed by God.
This means that:
- Commitment: Marriage is intended to be a lifelong commitment, not to be broken lightly.
- Unity: The “one flesh” concept highlights the deep, spiritual bond in marriage.
#2. The Exception of Sexual Immorality
Jesus provides a specific exception for divorce: sexual immorality.
This can include:
- Adultery: Extramarital affairs are the most common interpretation.
- Other Serious Sins: Some interpret this more broadly to include severe breaches of marital trust.
#3. The Role of Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Even in cases of sexual immorality, Jesus’ broader teachings on forgiveness and reconciliation are crucial:
- Forgiveness: While betrayal is painful, forgiveness can restore relationships (Matthew 18:21-22).
- Reconciliation: Efforts should be made to repair and rebuild the marriage if possible.
#4. The Impact on Remarriage
Jesus’ words about remarriage need careful consideration:
- Adultery: Remarrying after a divorce not based on sexual immorality is considered adultery.
- New Beginnings: However, remarriage is permissible if the divorce was due to sexual immorality.
#5. Pastoral Care and Support
For those facing divorce, Jesus’ teachings call for:
- Compassion: Churches and communities should offer support and understanding.
- Guidance: Counseling and pastoral care can help individuals navigate these difficult situations.
Practical Steps for Couples
If you’re married or considering marriage, Jesus’ teachings in Matthew offer valuable guidance:
- Communicate Openly: Good communication helps prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.
- Seek Help Early: Don’t wait until problems become unmanageable.
Seek counseling or support early.
- Prioritize Forgiveness: Be willing to forgive and work through issues together.
- Commit to Growth: Invest in your relationship through continuous learning and growth.
Conclusion
Jesus’ teachings on divorce in Matthew emphasize the sanctity and permanence of marriage while acknowledging the painful reality of sexual immorality.
He calls for a higher standard of commitment, forgiveness, and reconciliation.
For those navigating the complexities of marriage and divorce, Jesus’ words provide both a challenge and a source of hope.
Remember, each situation is unique, and seeking wisdom from spiritual leaders and counselors can provide additional guidance.
Understanding Jesus’ perspective on divorce helps us appreciate the deep commitment marriage requires and encourages us to approach this sacred union with the respect and dedication it deserves.
FAQs on Jesus’ Teachings on Divorce from the Gospel of Matthew
1. What does Jesus say about divorce in Matthew 5:31-32?
In Matthew 5:31-32, Jesus addresses divorce during the Sermon on the Mount.
He refers to the Old Testament law that allowed divorce with a certificate but sets a higher standard by saying divorce is only permissible in cases of sexual immorality.
He also emphasizes that remarrying after such a divorce, except for sexual immorality, results in adultery.
2. How does Jesus respond to the Pharisees’ question about divorce in Matthew 19:3-9?
In Matthew 19:3-9, when the Pharisees ask Jesus if it’s lawful to divorce for any reason, He refers back to God’s original design for marriage as a lifelong union.
Jesus states that Moses allowed divorce because of people’s hard hearts but insists this was not God’s initial intent.
He again highlights that divorce should only be allowed in cases of sexual immorality.
3. What does “sexual immorality” mean in Jesus’ teachings on divorce?
The term “sexual immorality” (Greek: porneia) in Jesus’ teachings generally refers to adultery but can encompass other serious breaches of sexual conduct within marriage.
It includes behaviors that violate the sacred bond and trust between spouses.
4. Can Christians remarry after a divorce?
According to Jesus’ teachings in Matthew, remarriage is permissible if the divorce occurred due to sexual immorality.
However, if the divorce was for other reasons, remarrying would be considered adultery.
Each situation can be unique, and individuals are encouraged to seek pastoral guidance.
5. How should Christians approach marriage according to Jesus’ teachings?
Jesus teaches that marriage is a sacred and lifelong commitment.
Christians are encouraged to:
- Value the sanctity of marriage: Understand that marriage is designed by God to be a permanent union.
- Communicate openly: Maintain open and honest communication to strengthen the relationship.
- Forgive and reconcile: Work towards forgiveness and reconciliation, especially in the face of challenges.
- Seek help early: Don’t hesitate to seek counseling or support to resolve issues before they become insurmountable.
6. What should a Christian do if they are considering divorce?
If you’re considering divorce, it’s important to:
- Reflect on Jesus’ teachings: Understand the serious implications of divorce and the importance of sexual immorality as a justifiable reason.
- Seek pastoral advice: Talk to a spiritual leader or counselor to get guidance and support.
- Pursue reconciliation: If possible, try to work on repairing the marriage through communication, counseling, and forgiveness.
7. Why did Moses allow divorce if God intended marriage to be permanent?
Jesus explains that Moses allowed divorce because of the hardness of people’s hearts (Matthew 19:8).
This means that due to the fallen nature of humanity, concessions were made in the law to manage the practical realities of broken relationships, even though it was not God’s original plan for marriage.
8. How does Jesus’ teaching on divorce impact modern Christians?
Jesus’ teaching challenges modern Christians to uphold the sanctity and permanence of marriage.
It calls for a deep commitment to the marital relationship and encourages seeking reconciliation whenever possible.
However, it also acknowledges the pain of sexual immorality and allows for divorce in such circumstances.
9. What resources are available for Christians struggling in their marriage?
Christians struggling in their marriage can seek:
- Pastoral counseling: Many churches offer counseling services to help couples navigate marital issues.
- Marriage workshops and seminars: These can provide tools and strategies for building a stronger relationship.
- Support groups: Connecting with others who have experienced similar struggles can offer support and encouragement.
- Christian books and resources: There are many books and online resources from a Christian perspective on how to strengthen and sustain a marriage.
10. What if I have more questions or need further guidance on this topic?
If you have more questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to:
- Talk to a trusted pastor or counselor: They can provide personalized advice and support based on your situation.
- Explore biblical resources: Reading and studying the Bible and other Christian literature can give deeper insights into Jesus’ teachings on marriage and divorce.
- Join a faith community: Being part of a church or faith community can offer ongoing support and wisdom for your marriage journey.
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