In Matthew 5:31–32, Jesus addresses the topic of divorce, a subject that was as controversial in His day as it is today. His teaching cuts through cultural norms and legal loopholes to reveal God’s design for marriage as a sacred, lifelong covenant. Jesus’ words challenge the lax attitudes toward divorce among the religious leaders of His time, calling His followers to a higher standard of faithfulness and commitment. This essay will explore Jesus’ teaching on divorce in the context of the Sermon on the Mount, examining its biblical foundation, cultural implications, and practical application for believers today.
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Divorce in the Old Testament
1. The Mosaic Provision for Divorce
Jesus begins by referencing the Law of Moses: “It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce’” (Matthew 5:31). This statement alludes to Deuteronomy 24:1–4, where Moses permitted divorce under certain conditions. The passage states, “If a man marries a woman who becomes displeasing to him because he finds something indecent about her, and he writes her a certificate of divorce…”
This provision was not a command but a concession, meant to regulate an already prevalent practice and to protect women from unjust treatment. The “certificate of divorce” served as legal proof of the dissolution of the marriage, allowing the woman to remarry without accusations of adultery. However, the phrase “something indecent” was widely debated, with some interpreting it narrowly (e.g., sexual immorality) and others broadly (e.g., any cause of dissatisfaction).
2. God’s Design for Marriage
While Moses allowed for divorce, it was never God’s ideal. From the beginning, marriage was intended to be a lifelong union between a man and a woman. Genesis 2:24 declares, “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.” This “one flesh” union reflects the permanence and intimacy of God’s design for marriage.
Malachi 2:16 expresses God’s displeasure with divorce: “‘I hate divorce,’ says the Lord God of Israel.” Divorce, though sometimes permissible, was never part of His perfect plan. It represented the brokenness of human relationships in a fallen world.
Jesus’ Teaching on Divorce
1. A Higher Standard
Jesus continues, “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 5:32). Here, Jesus clarifies and elevates the standard for His followers, emphasizing the sanctity of marriage and the seriousness of divorce.
The phrase “except for sexual immorality” (Greek: porneia) refers to marital unfaithfulness, such as adultery or other forms of sexual sin. Jesus permits divorce in such cases, recognizing that infidelity can break the covenant bond of marriage. However, even in cases of unfaithfulness, reconciliation is preferable, reflecting God’s grace and forgiveness (Hosea 3:1–3; Ephesians 4:32).
By limiting divorce to cases of sexual immorality, Jesus rejects the permissive interpretations of His day. The Pharisees, influenced by the rabbinic school of Hillel, allowed divorce for nearly any reason, including trivial matters like a wife burning dinner. Jesus’ teaching contrasts sharply with this laxity, affirming that marriage is a sacred covenant not to be broken lightly.
2. The Consequences of Divorce
Jesus further states that divorcing one’s spouse, except for reasons of sexual immorality, leads to adultery. This is because, in God’s eyes, the marriage covenant remains intact, even if dissolved legally. As Paul writes in Romans 7:2–3, “A married woman is bound to her husband as long as he is alive, but if her husband dies, she is released from the law that binds her to him.”
This teaching underscores the gravity of divorce and the need for believers to approach marriage with reverence and commitment. It also highlights the importance of seeking God’s guidance and wisdom in marital decisions.
Marriage in the Context of the Kingdom
Jesus’ teaching on divorce reflects the values of the kingdom of heaven, which prioritize faithfulness, forgiveness, and covenantal love. Marriage is not merely a human contract but a divine institution that points to God’s relationship with His people. In Ephesians 5:31–32, Paul describes marriage as a profound mystery that reflects Christ’s love for the Church.
The permanence of marriage in God’s design also highlights the need for grace and humility in relationships. While sin can damage or even destroy marriages, the gospel offers hope for restoration and healing. Believers are called to embody the selfless love of Christ, who gave Himself for His bride, the Church (Ephesians 5:25–27).
Practical Applications for Believers
1. A High View of Marriage
Believers must approach marriage with a high view of its sanctity and permanence. This includes prayerfully seeking God’s guidance in choosing a spouse, honoring the marriage covenant, and prioritizing their relationship with their spouse. Hebrews 13:4 states, “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure.”
2. Commitment to Reconciliation
In cases of marital conflict, believers are called to pursue reconciliation whenever possible. This involves humility, forgiveness, and a willingness to seek counseling or pastoral support. As Jesus teaches in Matthew 18:21–22, forgiveness is essential in relationships, even when it is difficult.
3. Compassion for the Divorced
While upholding God’s standard for marriage, the Church must also extend compassion and grace to those who have experienced divorce. Many have suffered the pain of broken relationships, and they need the healing and hope that Christ provides. Galatians 6:1–2 encourages believers to “carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
4. Avoiding Legalism
It is important to distinguish between God’s ideal for marriage and the realities of living in a fallen world. While divorce is never God’s desire, it may be necessary in certain circumstances, such as abuse or abandonment. Believers must approach these situations with wisdom, prayer, and a reliance on God’s grace, avoiding judgmental attitudes or legalistic interpretations.
The Gospel and Marriage
Jesus’ teaching on divorce points to the larger reality of God’s faithfulness to His covenant. Despite humanity’s unfaithfulness, God remains faithful, offering forgiveness and redemption through Christ. Hosea’s marriage to Gomer, a vivid picture of God’s love for Israel, illustrates this truth (Hosea 3:1–5). Similarly, Christ’s sacrificial love for the Church demonstrates the grace that sustains and restores broken relationships.
For believers, marriage is an opportunity to reflect the gospel in their daily lives. By loving, forgiving, and serving their spouse, they model Christ’s love to the world. Even in the midst of difficulties, marriage can be a testimony to the power of God’s grace.
Conclusion
Jesus’ teaching on divorce in the Sermon on the Mount underscores the sanctity of marriage and calls His followers to a higher standard of faithfulness and commitment. While the world often views marriage as disposable, Jesus affirms its permanence as a sacred covenant designed by God. His words challenge believers to honor their marriage vows, pursue reconciliation, and extend grace to those who have experienced divorce.
For Christians today, this passage serves as both a warning and an encouragement. It warns against the casual attitudes toward marriage that pervade culture and calls for a renewed commitment to God’s design. Yet it also offers the hope of restoration and forgiveness, pointing to the ultimate faithfulness of Christ. By living out these truths, believers can glorify God and reflect His kingdom in their marriages.
“Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate” (Mark 10:9).
All Scripture quoted from:
New International Version (NIV)
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For Further Reference: A Detailed Study on the Entire Sermon on the Mount
