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.

Matthew 19:9 (KJV)

Context

Matthew 19 opens with the Pharisees testing Jesus by asking whether it is lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any reason. In Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus responds by pointing back to creation, affirming that marriage is a lifelong union between one man and one woman, and He quotes Genesis 2:24 to show that the two become one flesh. Jesus then gives His own authoritative teaching, introduced by the phrase “And I say unto you,” which sets His words apart from the Pharisees’ interpretation of the Law.

Meaning

In Matthew 19:9, Jesus states that whoever divorces his wife, except for fornication, and marries another, commits adultery. The Greek word translated “fornication” is porneia, which refers to sexual immorality, including adultery. This exception clause acknowledges that sexual sin can break the marriage covenant, making divorce permissible in that case. Jesus also teaches that anyone who marries a woman divorced under illegitimate circumstances commits adultery, showing that the marriage bond is not to be treated lightly.

Biblical connections

Jesus’ teaching here is consistent with His earlier words in Matthew 5:32, where He similarly states that divorce, except for fornication, causes the divorced spouse to commit adultery, and that marrying a divorced woman commits adultery. The disciples’ reaction in Matthew 19:10 indicates that they understood the high standard of this teaching.

Application

This verse calls believers to honor the permanence of marriage and to take the marriage covenant seriously. It also provides a clear exception for cases of sexual immorality, acknowledging the reality of human sinfulness. Different denominations and theologians have varying interpretations on whether other grounds, such as abandonment or abuse, might also permit divorce, and it is wise to study other relevant passages like 1 Corinthians 7:10-16 and Malachi 2:16 alongside this verse. Seeking guidance from trusted spiritual leaders and understanding the teachings of your faith community can provide further insight.

Reflection

Jesus’ words remind us that marriage is not merely a human arrangement but a divine covenant. The seriousness of adultery and the protection of the marriage bond are central to His teaching. As believers, we are called to approach marriage with reverence, to seek faithfulness in our relationships, and to extend grace and restoration where sin has occurred, while still upholding the truth of God’s design.