“He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.”– Matthew 19:8 (KJV)
“Jesus replied, ‘Moses permitted divorce only as a concession to your hard hearts, but it was not what God had originally intended.'”– Matthew 19:8 (NLT)
“He said, ‘Moses allowed divorce as a concession to your hard hearts, but it was not what God had originally intended.'”– Matthew 19:8 (MSG)
What Does Matthew 19:8 Mean?
In Matthew 19:8, we see Jesus addressing the topic of divorce. The verse comes as a response to a question posed to Him about whether it is lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any reason. Jesus begins by referencing Moses, who allowed divorce under certain conditions. However, Jesus makes it clear that this was not God’s original intention for marriage. He points out that Moses’ concession to divorce was due to the hard-heartedness of the people of that time. This sets the stage for a deeper understanding of the sacredness of marriage in God’s eyes, emphasizing that divorce should not be the norm or viewed lightly.
This verse challenges us to reflect on the purpose of marriage and the seriousness of the commitment we make to one another. It reminds us that marriage is not merely a contract but a covenant established by God, intended to be lifelong. Jesus is inviting us to consider the heart of God’s law, which desires unity and love within marriage rather than separation or divorce. Through this teaching, we recognize that God wishes for us to uphold the sanctity of marriage and approach relationships with compassion and understanding.
Matthew 19:8 Explanation and Commentary
As we engage with Matthew 19:8, we find that this verse is multifaceted, revealing insights into Jesus’s teachings on marriage and divorce. The cultural context Jesus is addressing is significant. In the time of Jesus, divorce was a common practice, and many held varying opinions on its legality and morality. The Pharisees, often looking to find fault with Jesus, sought to challenge His teachings on the law, including the laws surrounding marriage.
When Jesus mentions Moses, He is referring to the law given to the Israelites in the Old Testament. Moses, recognizing the reality of human failings and the hardness of people’s hearts, permitted divorce. However, Jesus shifts the focus from what was allowed to what God intended from the beginning. He emphasizes that God’s desire was for marriage to be a lifelong union, illustrating that God’s heart has always been for relationships to thrive and flourish, not to be easily broken.
It’s essential to note that Jesus does not disregard the struggles people may face in marriage. He understands the reality of hard hearts, which can lead to pain, strife, and conflict in relationships. Instead of speaking harshly, Jesus offers a compassionate rebuke, urging individuals to evaluate their heart attitudes toward marriage. Are we entering into this covenant with the understanding of its seriousness and sanctity? Jesus’ words encourage us to cultivate love, forgiveness, and reconciliation rather than looking for excuses to end relationships.
Divorce, through this lens, is not merely a legal matter; it relates to the spiritual and emotional dimensions of our lives. As followers of Christ, our marriages serve as a reflection of God’s unconditional love and commitment. This reflection becomes even more profound when we consider the Church as the bride of Christ. Just as Christ has not abandoned us, we are called to uphold our commitments to one another in marriage, mirroring that divine love.
We can also draw parallels from this teaching to other Scriptures. In Ephesians 5:25-27, Paul speaks about the profound relationship between Christ and the church, urging husbands to love their wives as Christ loves the church. This level of love is self-sacrificial and involves a commitment beyond momentary happiness or fulfillment. Instead, it focuses on mutual respect, trust, and genuine care. It places great importance on nurturing that sacred bond, much like the covenant God has with His people.
Context of Matthew 19:8
To fully grasp Matthew 19:8, we must consider its surrounding context. The encounter in this chapter is a significant discussion about marriage and divorce. Earlier in the chapter, the Pharisees approach Jesus with the intent to trap Him and find grounds to accuse Him. When they question Him about divorce, they reference Deuteronomy 24:1, where Moses outlines the conditions for divorce. This demonstrates the legalistic perspective of the Pharisees, focusing on the letter of the law rather than its spirit.
Jesus responds not by directly addressing their question but by calling them back to God’s original design for marriage. In verses prior to Matthew 19:8, Jesus quotes Genesis 2:24: “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” With this, Jesus establishes that marriage is a sacred union ordained by God. This context reinforces the notion that while the law permitted divorce due to human weakness, it was never God’s ideal plan.
Additionally, following Matthew 19:8, Jesus further discusses the implications of divorce and remarriage, which can serve as a cautionary note for those engaged in the conversation. He emphasizes the importance of commitment and the necessity to preserve that which God has joined. By surrounding His teaching on divorce with references to God’s original intentions for marriage, Jesus elevates the conversation from legalistic adherence to a heartfelt understanding of His will for our relationships.
Let’s also remember that Jesus’s teachings are countercultural, as many in His time embraced a casual view of marriage and divorce. His statements challenge societal norms, asking us to reflect deeply on how we view commitment and relationships in our lives. This command from Jesus is timeless, applicable to our hearts and commitments today. As we navigate relationships, whether in our personal lives or within the broader community, we are called to hold fast to God’s ideal of love, loyalty, and respect.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Matthew 19:8
In this verse, several components stand out that merit deeper examination. One key element is the reference to “the hardness of your hearts.” This phrase suggests a spiritual and emotional barrier that prevents individuals from experiencing the fullness of God’s design for relationships. Hardness of heart implies not just a refusal to see the truth but also an unwillingness to engage with the vulnerabilities inherent in loving relationships.
This idea resonates with us as we consider our actions and attitudes toward our relationships. Sometimes, we may find ourselves guarding our hearts or closing them off due to past hurts, disappointments, or fears. Yet, in doing so, we risk isolating ourselves from the love and connection that God desires for us. Instead of hardening our hearts, we should seek healing and openness, fostering an environment where love can flourish.
Another significant aspect is the phrase “but from the beginning it was not so.” This statement emphasizes God’s design and intention for marriage. In a world where divorce rates are high and relationships can often be transient, Jesus calls us back to the foundational truth of marriage. He reminds us that, despite cultural shifts and personal choices, God’s plan remains unchanged. This call to reflect on the original intent urges us to pursue healthy, loving relationships and to prioritize the commitments we make.
Being mindful of God’s purpose opens our eyes to the beauty of marriage as a mutual partnership where both individuals are committed to love, growth, and support. It encourages us to communicate openly, forgive freely, and work together toward common goals. When we nurture this commitment, we reflect God’s character and love more deeply in our relationships.
Additionally, we must be aware of the societal environments that can shape our perceptions of marriage. In today’s fast-paced world, it can be easy to approach marriage with a temporary mindset. By examining the biblical foundation of marriage and the depth of the commitment it entails, we are reinvigorated to cultivate our relationships in love, patience, and understanding.
Lessons to Learn From Matthew 19:8
Matthew 19:8 carries several profound lessons for us as we strive to live in accordance with God’s design for our relationships. One notable lesson is about the importance of commitment. In a society where it is easy to enter and exit relationships without much thought, this verse serves as a reminder that marriage is about a lasting bond built on love and fidelity. We must approach the commitment seriously and see marriage as a covenant—a sacred promise before God.
Another lesson involves the need for openness and vulnerability in our relationships. Hardness of heart can manifest in various ways, from unforgiveness to fear of intimacy. We are encouraged to let go of our defenses and open our hearts to one another. Vulnerability allows us to build deep connections founded on trust and understanding. When we are honest about our feelings and struggles, we create a safe space to communicate and heal together.
Additionally, we learn about the sacred nature of marriage when we understand its divine origin. Marriage is not merely a cultural tradition but a reflection of God’s character and covenant love. Just as God is committed to us, we are called to mirror that commitment in our relationships. By doing so, we reflect God’s love to those around us and demonstrate how love can transcend circumstances and difficulties.
This teaching also reminds us of the need for grace within our relationships. We are all imperfect individuals, bound to make mistakes and face challenges. When we approach one another with patience and forgiveness, we promote an atmosphere of grace that allows love to thrive. This grace empowers us to grow together rather than allowing our differences or conflicts to destroy our bond. Let us strive to support each other through life’s ups and downs, embodying the love that Christ has for the church.
Finally, embracing the essence of this verse offers a challenge to re-evaluate our views. Are we treating our commitments lightly, or are we holding to the values instilled by God? We are encouraged to take a stand for our marriages and relationships. Seeking God’s guidance as we commit to one another makes all the difference. Every effort we make can lead us toward healthier, more fulfilling relationships.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Matthew 19:8 provides us with insight into the heart of God concerning marriage and divorce. Such teachings challenge us to examine our own lives and relationships and encourage us to uphold the sanctity of marriage with grace and understanding. As we strive to honor our commitments, we reflect God’s love and purpose in our lives.
Let us approach our relationships with a spirit of humility and a willingness to grow together. Through love, compassion, and forgiveness, we can foster connections that stand the test of time. As we engage with these truths, may we desire to nurture our marriages and relationships in ways that honor God and reflect His commitment to us.
If you are interested in exploring more topics about marriage and relationships within the Bible, we encourage you to check out Matthew 11 or delve into Genesis 18:4. Each of these passages can further enrich our understanding and appreciation of God’s design for our lives.