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Matthew 19:9 meaning

In understanding the complexities of marriage and divorce, Jesus provided a significant teaching that highlights the sanctity of the marital bond. This teaching was delivered in response to the Pharisees, who sought to entrap Him regarding the legitimacy of divorce. During this discourse, He pointed out that the permission for divorce was a concession due to human hardness of heart, but emphasized that it was not part of God's original intention for marriage. He articulated that the only legitimate ground for divorce is sexual immorality, underscoring the seriousness with which marriage should be regarded.

This perspective reiterates that dissolving the marriage covenant without just cause leads to grave moral implications, as remarriage would then result in adultery. Therefore, while divorce may be permitted due to sin, it should not be seen as a trivial or acceptable option. The call of Jesus challenges individuals to pursue restoration and reconciliation in relationships rather than to treat marriage as disposable. This is encapsulated in His teaching found in Matthew 19:9, reinforcing the notion that upholding the sanctity of marriage aligns with God's design for lasting relationships.

This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]

Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:

  • Matthew 19:3-9 meaning. The Pharisees come to Jesus and test Him about what Moses said about divorce. They were trying to trap Him. Jesus begins His answer by focusing on what Moses said about marriage before rebuking their hard-heartedness and answering their question.

Other Relevant Commentaries:

  • Proverbs 31:23-26 meaning. The virtue of the excellent wife impacts her husband. She is clothed in honor and speaks with the wisdom central to the overall message of Proverbs.
  • Luke 16:18 meaning. Jesus continues to teach about the goodness of God’s law and against the self-justified perversions of it by the scoffing Pharisees. He offers a prime example of their detestable manipulation of the law by pointing out how they exploit a manufactured loophole in the marriage laws of Moses.
  • Luke 10:25-29 meaning. A lawyer comes to put Jesus to the test by asking Him what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus deftly flips the question back to the religious expert: "What does the law say?" The lawyer answers with the two greatest commandments: Love God and Love Others. Jesus tells him that he has answered correctly and to do this to inherit eternal life. The lawyer wishes to justify himself to these commandments and asks Jesus: "Who is my neighbor?"

Matthew 19:9