Mark 10:8
“And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh.”
Context:Mark 10:8 is a part of Jesus’ teaching on divorce and the sanctity of marriage. In the preceding verses, Jesus responds to a question posed by the Pharisees about whether it is lawful for a man to divorce his wife. Jesus directs their attention to the creation account in Genesis and emphasises the divine intention for marriage.
Reference to Genesis:To understand Mark 10:8 fully, we need to look back at the passage it references in the book of Genesis. In Genesis 2:24, it says: “Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” Jesus quotes this verse in Mark 10:7 and then follows it with verse 8.
Unity and Oneness:Mark 10:8 emphasises the profound unity that occurs in the marital relationship. It states that the husband and wife “shall be one flesh.” This concept goes beyond physical intimacy and signifies a deep spiritual, emotional, and relational bond between husband and wife. In marriage, two individuals become united in a way that they are no longer separate entities but are joined together as one.
Mutual Commitment and Covenant:The phrase “they are no more twain” indicates that the individual identities of the husband and wife become intertwined within the covenant of marriage. It speaks to the importance of commitment and the abandonment of selfishness for the sake of the marital union. The unity of one flesh implies a complete and selfless dedication to the well-being and growth of the relationship.
God’s Design for Marriage:Mark 10:8 reflects God’s original design for marriage as established in the Garden of Eden. In Genesis 2:18, God declared that it was not good for Adam to be alone, so He created Eve as a suitable companion. The unity described in Mark 10:8 is a reflection of the divine intention for the marital relationship—a bond marked by love, support, mutual respect, and a shared journey through life.
Implications for Marriage:Mark 10:8 highlights the sacredness of marriage and the importance of nurturing and protecting the marital union. It calls husbands and wives to view their relationship as a unity, prioritising love, communication, and sacrificial service. This verse serves as a reminder that marriage is a lifelong commitment that requires effort, selflessness, and a reliance on God’s grace.
