Mark 10:4

And they said, Moses suffered to write a bill of diuorcement, and to put her away. Mark 10:4 (KJV)

Context: This verse is part of a larger passage in Mark 10:1-12 where Jesus discusses the topic of divorce. To gain a better understanding of the verse, let’s examine the context and the teachings of Jesus regarding divorce. In the preceding verses, the Pharisees approached Jesus and asked Him if it was lawful for a man to divorce his wife, testing Him to see His response. In response to their question, Jesus asked them what Moses commanded them. The verse you mentioned, Mark 10:4, contains the response of the Pharisees. The Pharisees referred to a provision found in the Law of Moses, specifically Deuteronomy 24:1-4, which allowed a man to give his wife a “bill of divorcement” if he found something “uncleanness” in her. This provision was a concession given by Moses due to the hardness of people’s hearts at that time. However, it is important to note that Jesus did not affirm or endorse this provision but rather addressed the underlying issue.

In the subsequent verses (Mark 10:5-9), Jesus corrected the Pharisees’ understanding of divorce by referring back to the creation account in Genesis. Jesus emphasized that from the beginning, God’s intention was for marriage to be a lifelong commitment between one man and one woman. He quoted Genesis 1:27 and Genesis 2:24, stating, “For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; and they twain shall be one flesh.” Jesus highlighted the sacredness and permanence of the marriage bond, which should not be broken.

In Mark 10:10-12, Jesus further clarified His stance on divorce by saying that whoever divorces his spouse and marries another commits adultery. He emphasized that divorce and remarriage violate God’s original design for marriage.

Overall, Mark 10:4 highlights the discussion between Jesus and the Pharisees regarding divorce, specifically their reference to the provision in the Law of Moses. However, Jesus used this opportunity to reaffirm God’s original intention for marriage and to challenge the prevailing cultural attitudes toward divorce.

It is important to remember that while this passage provides guidance on divorce, it does not cover every possible circumstance. The Bible contains other teachings related to marriage, divorce, and reconciliation that can provide further insight and guidance for specific situations.