Scripture References: Matthew 5:31-32; Matthew 19:3-10; Genesis 1-2; Deuteronomy 24:1-4; Jeremiah 31:31-34
Intro: Welcome to this sermon addressing Jesus' teachings on divorce and remarriage from Matthew 5 & 19. This follows challenging topics on anger and lust. We approach this sensitive subject recognizing its complexity and the varying views held historically within the church, seeking understanding from Scripture.
Key Points:
- God's Original Intent (Gen 1-2): Jesus consistently grounds His teaching in God's creation design. Marriage, from the beginning, was intended as a permanent, one-flesh union built for family, shared mission, deep partnership, and intimate connection.
- Moses' Concession Due to Hard Hearts (Deut 24): The Old Testament allowance for divorce certificates wasn't God's command reflecting His ideal, but rather a concession Moses permitted because of human sinfulness ("hardness of heart"). It primarily served to protect women in that culture.
- Jesus Confronts "Any Cause" Divorce (Matt 19): The Pharisees tested Jesus concerning a contemporary debate: could a man divorce his wife for trivial reasons ("any cause," per Rabbi Hillel) or only for serious sexual immorality (per Rabbi Shammai)?
- Jesus Upholds Marriage Permanence (Matt 5 & 19): Jesus reaffirms God's creation ideal of lifelong commitment ("What God has joined... let not man separate"). He permits divorce only on the grounds of "sexual immorality" (porneia), aligning with the stricter view. Remarrying after an invalid divorce is considered adultery.
- Grace and Hope Beyond Failure (Jer 31): While Jesus' standard is high, divorce is not unforgivable. For those who have fallen short of the ideal, hope is found not in lowering the standard, but in receiving Christ's imputed righteousness and the transforming power of the New Covenant, which promises forgiveness and changed hearts. God Himself models covenant faithfulness despite His people's unfaithfulness.
Conclusion: Jesus champions God's high and beautiful design for marriage as a lifelong, covenantal union. He confronts interpretations that cheapen this bond. Yet, for human failure and hard-heartedness, He offers immense grace, forgiveness, and the power for heart transformation through the New Covenant.
Call to Action: Strive to honor God's design for marriage. If facing marital difficulty, seek reconciliation and God's help for heart change. If impacted by divorce, receive the deep forgiveness and grace available in Christ, trusting His righteousness covers your failures. Continue studying Scripture on this vital topic with humility and community.
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The Gospel of Matthew: Jesus & Marriage (Matthew 5:31-32 & 19:3-10)
with Travis Aicklen
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