Lesson 6: Marriage and Divorce
Sermon on the Mount: Matthew 5:31-32
Thank you for joining me today as we reflect on Matthew 5:31-32. In this passage, Jesus addresses the serious issue of divorce, calling his followers to a higher standard of faithfulness and commitment in marriage.
A Call to Covenant Faithfulness
Jesus states, “It was also said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.’ But I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of sexual immorality, makes her commit adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery” (Matthew 5:31-32). Here, Jesus refers to Deuteronomy 24:1-4, which permitted divorce under certain conditions. However, in Jesus’ day, many interpreted this passage too loosely, allowing divorce for trivial reasons. Jesus corrects this misunderstanding, reaffirming God’s original design for marriage as a lifelong covenant.
This teaching aligns with Malachi 2:16, where God declares, “For I hate divorce, says the Lord, the God of Israel.” Marriage isn’t merely a legal contract but a sacred covenant before God. Jesus’ words emphasize that marriage should reflect the unwavering faithfulness of God toward his people.
Jesus’ Teaching in Light of the Old and New Testament
Jesus’ teaching on divorce is consistent with God’s heart for marriage found throughout Scripture. In Genesis 2:24, marriage is described as a man and woman becoming “one flesh,” a union that’s meant to endure for life. Jesus later expands on this in Matthew 19:3-9, reaffirming that “what therefore God has joined together, let not man separate” (Matthew 19:6). Divorce was permitted in the Mosaic Law because of human sinfulness, but Jesus makes clear that it was never God’s ideal.
The apostle Paul also addresses marriage and divorce in 1 Corinthians 7:10-11, instructing believers not to separate but, if they do, to remain unmarried or be reconciled. These teachings highlight the gravity of divorce and call believers to pursue reconciliation whenever possible.
Church History and the Sanctity of Marriage
Throughout church history, theologians have upheld the sanctity of marriage. Augustine emphasized that marriage is a sacred bond that mirrors Christ’s relationship with the Church (Ephesians 5:31-32). John Calvin acknowledged that while divorce may sometimes be permitted due to sin, it should never be taken lightly. The Westminster Confession of Faith (1647) reinforces that marriage is designed for mutual support and lifelong commitment.
Many Christian traditions recognize that, while divorce is sometimes unavoidable in a fallen world, it should never be pursued carelessly or selfishly. Instead, believers are encouraged to seek God’s wisdom, counseling, and reconciliation whenever possible. At the same time, God’s grace is abundant for those who’ve experienced the pain of divorce. His mercy extends to the brokenhearted, and he offers healing, restoration, and new beginnings for those who turn to him (Psalm 34:18; Isaiah 61:1-3).
Key Principles
Jesus reaffirms God’s design for marriage as a sacred and enduring union (Matthew 5:31-32; Genesis 2:24).
Though permitted in cases of sexual immorality, Jesus warns against the destructive consequences of divorce (Matthew 19:6-9).
Just as God is faithful to his people, marriage should be marked by commitment and grace (Ephesians 5:31-32).
For those who have experienced divorce, God’s love and restoration are still fully available through Christ (Psalm 34:18; Isaiah 61:1-3).
Bible Study Questions
How did Jesus’ teaching on divorce differ from the common interpretations of his day? (Matthew 5:31-32)
Why does Jesus allow divorce only on the grounds of sexual immorality? (Matthew 19:9)
How does Genesis 2:24 shape our understanding of marriage as a lifelong covenant?
What does Malachi 2:16 reveal about God’s view of divorce?
How can believers uphold the sanctity of marriage in a culture that often treats it lightly?
In what ways does marriage reflect Christ’s relationship with the Church? (Ephesians 5:31-32)
What guidance does Paul give regarding marriage and divorce in 1 Corinthians 7:10-11?
How can the Church support those who’ve experienced divorce while still upholding biblical teaching?
What role does forgiveness and reconciliation play in a struggling marriage?
How can couples cultivate faithfulness and commitment in their marriage?
Questions for Discussion and Personal Reflection
How does Jesus’ teaching on divorce challenge your understanding of marriage?
Are there cultural influences that have shaped your views on divorce more than Scripture?
What steps can you take to strengthen your marriage or encourage faithfulness in others?
How can you support those who are struggling in their marriages with grace and truth?
What role does prayer play in maintaining a healthy marriage?
How does understanding marriage as a covenant affect your perspective on commitment?
If you’ve experienced divorce, how can God’s grace bring healing and restoration?
How can churches balance compassion for divorced individuals with upholding biblical marriage?
What lessons can we learn from biblical examples of faithful and unfaithful marriages?
How does Jesus’ teaching on marriage reflect God’s greater redemptive plan?
Action Steps
Whether married or single, seek to honor God’s design for marriage by prioritizing faithfulness and Christ-centered love.
Support couples in your church through prayer, mentoring, and encouragement.
If you’ve experienced divorce or know someone who has, offer grace, counsel, and encouragement toward healing and restoration.
Thank you for joining me today. My hope is that you were encouraged and blessed by reflecting on this passage. You can discover more devotionals, Bible studies, and other resources by clicking here: Walking Points. If you found this study helpful, please consider sharing it with others and encouraging them to subscribe as well.