“They said unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away?”– Matthew 19:7 (KJV)
“But why did Moses say in the law that a man could give his wife a written notice of divorce and send her away?”– Matthew 19:7 (NLT)
“They asked, ‘Then why did Moses give a command to divorce wives by writing them a certificate of divorce?'”– Matthew 19:7 (MSG)
What Does Matthew 19:7 Mean?
This verse is significant in understanding the teachings of Jesus regarding marriage and divorce. When the Pharisees approached Jesus, they were testing Him about the laws concerning divorce, specifically referencing Moses’ instructions. In their question, they are expressing confusion or perhaps a challenge to Jesus’ stance on the sacredness of marriage and the allowance for divorce in certain circumstances.
At that time, there were two prominent schools of thought regarding divorce among the Jewish teachers. One held a strict view, stating that divorce should only occur in cases of severe wrongdoing, while the other viewed it with more leniency, allowing divorce for any reason. The Pharisees were attempting to pit Jesus against one of these views, hoping to catch Him in a statement that could be used against Him. However, Jesus goes beyond the cultural norms and legalistic interpretations of divorce to emphasize God’s original design for marriage.
Matthew 19:7 Explanation and Commentary
This verse presents a glimpse into the dialog between the teachers of the law and Jesus. It shows how they were entrenched in the legalities of the law given by Moses. While they believed they were upholding the standards set in the Old Testament, they missed the heart of God’s intention for marriage. The essence of marriage is rooted in love, commitment, and lifelong partnership, as God intended when He created them male and female.
By referencing Moses, the Pharisees tried to justify their understanding of divorce. Moses had indeed allowed for a certificate of divorce, which is found in Deuteronomy 24:1. However, Jesus points out that this was not God’s original plan. In Matthew 19:8, He states that Moses permitted this due to the hardness of people’s hearts, but it wasn’t God’s design from the beginning. This understanding is crucial for us today as we navigate our relationships and consider the serious commitment that marriage entails.
Furthermore, the answer provided by Jesus leads us to reflect on the importance of reconciliation and forgiveness in our lives. We learn that the heart of God is one of restoration. Divorce, though permitted under certain conditions, is not the ideal outcome. As believers, we are called to work through conflicts and challenges with our partners rather than resorting to separation. This requires effort, humility, and seeking God’s guidance in our marriages.
As we look at our relationships, may we strive to embody the love and commitment that God exemplifies in His relationship with us. Marriages provide an incredible opportunity to mirror Christ’s love for His church, which is selfless and sacrificial. Let’s focus on nurturing our relationships, keeping communication open, and placing each other’s needs and desires above our own.
Context of Matthew 19:7
The understanding of Matthew 19:7 is deeply rooted in its context. The chapter begins with the Pharisees questioning Jesus about the lawfulness of divorce. These religious leaders were not genuinely seeking understanding but rather trying to trap Jesus. By referring to the law of Moses, they sought to highlight a division among the people regarding what was acceptable behavior in marriage.
As we read further into Matthew 19, we find Jesus reiterating the sanctity of marriage and its intended purpose. He goes back to the beginning when God created male and female, establishing marriage as a divine institution requiring commitment. This was revolutionary in that era, as it challenged the cultural views of both strict and lenient divorce laws, urging people to reconsider what they believed concerning marriage.
It’s also essential to note that this conversation occurred at a time when many societal norms were evolving. The Jewish community, torn between tradition and contemporary practices, found themselves amidst debates about how to uphold the law while embracing new interpretations. In this environment, Jesus stepped in to clarify God’s intention, positioning Himself as the authority on the matter.
This backdrop enriches our understanding of His message and encourages us to focus on the love and respect that should govern marriage. Our relationships are not just legal contracts but are God-ordained commitments that reflect His covenant with us.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Matthew 19:7
In the phrasing of the question from the Pharisees, we see their emphasis on the law. They referred to Moses and his command regarding divorce as an opportunity to assert their views. The key phrase “command to give a writing of divorcement” indicates the legal framework they sought to highlight, indicating their focus on rules rather than the spirit behind them.
This legalistic mindset serves as a warning for us today. It invites us to examine our own attitudes in relationships. Are we, too, more focused on rules than on cultivating a loving and forgiving relationship? Are we treating our partners as checklists for rights and wrongs, rather than as individuals deserving love and grace?
Jesus emphasizes the need to prioritize grace over the law. He holds a mirror to our hearts, reminding us that it is easy to quote scripture or church doctrine while neglecting to embody Christ’s teachings in our interactions. By reframing the conversation, He invites us to think deeply about how our practices, including the way we treat our spouses, reflect God’s love.
Furthermore, the Pharisees’ question highlights a tension that exists in all relationships: the balance between love, commitment, and the realities of human failings. Jesus addresses the reality of sin and hurt that impacts marriages. Rather than recommending ease of divorce, He suggests we seek to heal and restore the brokenness instead. This is where the beauty of grace shines through our marriages and relationships.
Lessons to Learn From Matthew 19:7
As we reflect on the teachings stemming from Matthew 19:7, several lessons come to mind. These lessons challenge us to be more than mere rule followers but rather individuals who embody Godly principles. We are called to nurture a spirit of love, grace, and reconciliation in our discussions about relationships.
The first lesson is about commitment. Marriage is a covenant that demands dedication. It is not about convenience but about working together to fulfill the vows we have made. We should recognize that commitment means navigating through good times and facing the storms together. This steadfastness provides a solid foundation for lasting partnerships.
Another significant takeaway is the importance of communication. Mending brokenness and seeking understanding are crucial in every relationship. When conflicts arise, we should prioritize open and honest dialogue. It requires intentional effort to share our thoughts and feelings while remaining receptive to what our partner has to say. This practice leads to healing and growth.
Additionally, it is vital to extend grace to one another. Just as we have received grace from God, we must offer it freely in our relationships. Mistakes will occur, but the ability to forgive and seek restoration is a testament to our faith. Holding onto grudges or resentment only fuels discord and prevents us from experiencing true joy and connection.
Finally, we must remember that God is at the center of our relationships. Inviting His presence into our marriages allows us to reflect His love and grace. Every decision we make in our partnerships should not be lean on our understanding but should always seek God’s will. Together, we can create a marriage where both partners grow closer to each other and God.
Final Thoughts
Matthew 19:7 serves as a powerful reminder of God’s original design for marriage. It prompts us to reflect on how we view relationships and the importance of commitment, grace, and love. Marriages, as intended by God, are meant to be a reflection of His covenant with us. We should strive to embody this in our actions and words.
As we ponder this verse, let’s be encouraged to build strong marriages that withstand life’s challenges. May we actively cultivate love, prioritize communication, and extend grace to one another. Individually and together, let’s seek to honor God through our relationships, reflecting His light in the world.
If you’re interested in exploring more topics about marriage and relationships in the Bible, feel free to check out additional articles on our website. For more on various Biblical principles, consider visiting Matthew 11, or for insights on foundational stories, look at Genesis 18. There is much wisdom to uncover that can enrich our journey in faith and relationships.