Matthew 19:9
“And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.”
Context:Matthew 19 is part of a broader section where Jesus is teaching on various topics related to marriage and divorce. The Pharisees approach Jesus with a question, testing Him on whether it is lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any reason.
Jesus’ response:In Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus establishes the divine intention for marriage, affirming that it is a lifelong union between one man and one woman, ordained by God. He cites Genesis 2:24, stating that a man shall leave his parents and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.
Exception clause:In Matthew 19:9, Jesus introduces an exception to the general rule against divorce. He states that the only permissible reason for a man to divorce his wife is if she has committed fornication (sexual immorality). This exception clause acknowledges the reality of human sinfulness and the potential breach of fidelity within a marriage.
Adultery:Jesus goes on to assert that if a person divorces their spouse for any reason other than sexual immorality and remarries, they commit adultery. Furthermore, anyone who marries a person who has been divorced under illegitimate circumstances is also committing adultery.
Application and interpretation:This verse has been a subject of interpretation and debate among Christians. Some interpret it as an absolute prohibition against divorce and remarriage under any circumstances, except in cases of marital infidelity. Others understand Jesus’ words as providing an exception for divorce due to adultery, without necessarily prohibiting divorce and remarriage for other valid reasons, such as abandonment or abuse. Different denominations and theologians may have varying interpretations and teachings on this matter.
It is important to consider that a comprehensive understanding of divorce and remarriage should be derived by studying other relevant biblical passages alongside Matthew 19:9, such as 1 Corinthians 7:10-16 and Malachi 2:16. Additionally, seeking guidance from trusted spiritual leaders and studying the teachings of your specific faith community can provide further insight and understanding on this topic.
