Matthew 5:31-32 Decoded: Divorce and Remarriage in Jesus’ Words

What does Jesus say about divorce in Matthew 5:31-32?

In Matthew 5:31-32, Jesus addresses the serious matter of divorce, offering a teaching that challenges the prevailing attitudes of his time while emphasizing the sanctity of marriage. He begins by referencing the Old Testament law, stating “It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’” This alludes to Deuteronomy 24:1-4, which permitted divorce under certain circumstances. (Burton, 1907, pp. 121–127)

But Jesus then presents a more stringent view: “But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, makes her the victim of adultery, and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.” This statement reveals several key points about Jesus’ perspective on divorce.

Jesus affirms the enduring nature of the marriage covenant, implying that it should not be easily dissolved. By stating that divorcing one’s wife makes her a victim of adultery, he emphasizes the gravity of breaking the marital bond. This teaching aligns with his later affirmation in Matthew 19:6 that “what God has joined together, let no one separate.”

Jesus provides a single exception for permissible divorce: sexual immorality (porneia in Greek). This exception clause has been the subject of much scholarly debate it suggests that in cases of serious sexual misconduct, divorce may be allowable. (Leineweber, 2008)

Jesus extends the concept of adultery beyond its traditional definition. By asserting that remarriage after an impermissible divorce constitutes adultery, he elevates the permanence of the original marriage covenant in God’s eyes.

Jesus’ teaching here is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where he frequently contrasts the letter of the law with its deeper spiritual intent. In this context, his words on divorce serve to highlight the ideal of marital fidelity and the serious nature of marriage in God’s plan for human relationships.

I recognize the powerful impact these words have had on Christian understanding of marriage and divorce throughout the centuries. They call us to view marriage not as a mere social contract as a sacred bond reflecting God’s covenant love for humanity. At the same time, they challenge us to approach the painful reality of broken relationships with compassion, wisdom, and a deep respect for the divine intention behind marriage.

How does Jesus’ teaching on divorce differ from Old Testament law?

Jesus’ teaching on divorce in Matthew 5:31-32 represents a major departure from the Old Testament law, particularly as it was understood and practiced in first-century Judaism. This shift reflects a deeper, more spiritual interpretation of God’s intentions for marriage and human relationships.

In the Old Testament, divorce was regulated primarily by Deuteronomy 24:1-4. This passage allowed a man to divorce his wife by giving her a certificate of divorce if he found “something indecent about her.” The interpretation of what constituted “something indecent” was a matter of debate among Jewish scholars. By the time of Jesus, two main schools of thought had emerged: the school of Shammai, which interpreted this narrowly as sexual misconduct, and the school of Hillel, which allowed divorce for a wide range of reasons, even as trivial as burning a meal. (Burton, 1907, pp. 121–127)

Jesus’ teaching diverges from this Old Testament allowance in several key ways:

1. Stricter limitations: Although the Old Testament permitted divorce under certain circumstances, Jesus limits it to cases of sexual immorality. This narrows the grounds for divorce considerably compared to the prevailing interpretations of his time.
2. Equal treatment: The Old Testament law primarily addressed men’s right to divorce their wives. Jesus’ teaching implicitly applies to both husbands and wives, reflecting a more egalitarian view of marriage.
3. Spiritual consequences: Jesus introduces the concept that improper divorce can lead to adultery, a spiritual and moral consequence not explicitly stated in the Old Testament law.
4. Focus on God’s original intent: In Matthew 19:8, Jesus explains that Moses allowed divorce because of the hardness of people’s hearts “it was not this way from the beginning.” This statement points back to God’s original design for marriage as a permanent union.
5. Elevation of marriage’s significance: By linking divorce so closely with adultery, Jesus elevates the status of marriage to a higher spiritual plane than it held in Old Testament law.

As a student of history and human behavior, I see in this teaching a powerful shift from a legalistic approach to marriage to one that emphasizes its spiritual and emotional dimensions. Jesus is calling his followers to a higher standard of commitment and fidelity in their relationships.

At the same time, I recognize the compassion inherent in Jesus’ words. By providing an exception for cases of sexual immorality, he acknowledges the painful realities that can fracture human relationships while still upholding the ideal of lifelong marital fidelity.

This teaching challenges us to view marriage not merely as a social or legal contract as a sacred covenant reflecting God’s faithful love for humanity. It calls us to approach the institution of marriage with reverence, commitment, and a deep understanding of its spiritual significance in God’s plan for human flourishing.

What does “except for sexual immorality” mean in Matthew 5:32?

The phrase “except for sexual immorality” in Matthew 5:32 has been the subject of much scholarly debate and interpretation throughout Christian history. The Greek word used here is “porneia,” which has a broad range of meanings related to sexual misconduct. Understanding this exception clause is crucial for interpreting Jesus’ teaching on divorce and remarriage.

“porneia” is a term with a wide semantic range. It can refer to various forms of sexual immorality, including but not limited to adultery, fornication, prostitution, and incest. Some scholars argue that in the context of marriage, it primarily refers to adultery, while others maintain a broader interpretation. (Leineweber, 2008)

The inclusion of this exception clause suggests that Jesus recognized certain circumstances where the marital bond could be legitimately dissolved. This aligns with the Jewish legal tradition that viewed sexual fidelity as a fundamental aspect of the marriage covenant. When this fidelity is breached through serious sexual misconduct, it may be seen as effectively breaking the covenant.

But it’s crucial to understand that this exception does not mandate divorce in cases of sexual immorality. Rather, it permits it as a possible response to such a serious breach of the marital relationship. Jesus’ overall teaching emphasizes the permanence and sanctity of marriage, and this exception should be viewed within that context.

Psychologically we can understand why sexual infidelity might be grounds for permitting divorce. Sexual intimacy is a unique bonding experience in marriage, creating deep emotional and physical connections. Betrayal in this area can cause powerful psychological trauma, breaking trust and intimacy in ways that may be irreparable for some couples.

Historically, this exception clause has been interpreted in various ways by different Christian traditions. Some have taken a very narrow view, limiting it strictly to adultery, while others have broadened it to include other forms of sexual misconduct or even non-sexual forms of betrayal that similarly rupture the marital bond.

I believe it’s important to approach this teaching with both reverence for the sanctity of marriage and compassion for human frailty. While upholding the ideal of lifelong marital fidelity, we must also recognize the complex realities of human relationships and the deep wounds that sexual betrayal can inflict.

In pastoral practice, this exception clause calls us to approach situations of marital infidelity with great care, wisdom, and discernment. While divorce may be permissible in such cases, our first response should be to encourage reconciliation, healing, and restoration where possible, always keeping in mind the welfare of all involved, including any children.

“except for sexual immorality” reminds us that while marriage is sacred, it is not an absolute that trumps all other considerations. In cases of serious betrayal, God’s compassion extends to the wounded party, allowing the possibility of release from a covenant that has been fundamentally broken.

Is remarriage after divorce allowed according to these verses?

The question of remarriage after divorce, based on Matthew 5:31-32, is a complex and sensitive issue that has been debated throughout Christian history. Although these verses do not provide an explicit, comprehensive teaching on remarriage, they do offer some insights that have shaped Christian thinking on this matter.

Jesus states, “Anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, makes her the victim of adultery, and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.” This teaching presents several points for consideration regarding remarriage:

1. Implied permission in cases of sexual immorality: The exception clause for sexual immorality suggests that divorce (and by extension, possibly remarriage) might be permissible in such cases. But this is not explicitly stated and remains a matter of interpretation. (Leineweber, 2008)
2. Adultery in remarriage: Jesus’ statement that marrying a divorced woman constitutes adultery implies that the original marriage bond is still considered valid in God’s eyes, even after a legal divorce. This has led some traditions to prohibit remarriage after divorce entirely.
3. Gender considerations: Although the verse specifically mentions a man divorcing his wife, most interpreters understand this teaching to apply equally to both genders in line with Jesus’ general approach to gender equality in spiritual matters.
4. Context of grace: It’s crucial to read these verses in the broader context of Jesus’ ministry of grace and forgiveness. While upholding the ideal of marriage, Jesus consistently showed compassion to those who fell short of God’s standards.

Historically Christian traditions have varied in their interpretation of these verses regarding remarriage. Some have taken a very strict view, prohibiting remarriage in almost all circumstances, while others have allowed it in cases of adultery or abandonment by an unbelieving spouse (drawing on Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 7).

I recognize the powerful emotional and psychological implications of this teaching. Divorce is often a traumatic experience, and the prospect of lifelong singleness can be daunting for many. At the same time, the pain of adultery in a second marriage, as implied by Jesus’ words, is a serious consideration.

In pastoral practice, I believe we must approach this issue with great care, compassion, and discernment. While upholding the ideal of lifelong marriage, we must also recognize the reality of human brokenness and the possibility of genuine repentance and new beginnings.

These verses call us to take marriage seriously as a lifelong commitment. They challenge us to work hard at preserving our marriages and to think very carefully before entering into divorce or remarriage. At the same time, they remind us of our constant need for God’s grace and the importance of extending that grace to others who may be struggling with these difficult issues.

How do Matthew 5:31-32 and Matthew 19:3-9 relate to each other?

Matthew 5:31-32 and Matthew 19:3-9 are two key passages in which Jesus addresses the issue of divorce. While they occur in different contexts within Matthew’s Gospel, they are closely related in content and theology, offering complementary perspectives on Jesus’ teaching regarding marriage and divorce.

In Matthew 5:31-32, part of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus presents his teaching on divorce in the context of fulfilling the law. He contrasts his stricter view with the prevailing understanding of the Old Testament law. This passage is more concise, focusing on the basic principle that divorce, except in cases of sexual immorality, can lead to adultery. (Arbo, 2009, pp. 94–95)

Matthew 19:3-9, on the other hand, occurs in a narrative context where the Pharisees are testing Jesus. This passage provides a more detailed exposition of Jesus’ views on divorce, including his reasoning based on God’s original intention in creation. Here, Jesus explicitly refers to Genesis, stating that God made them male and female and that the two become one flesh, emphasizing the permanence of the marriage bond. (Allison, 1993, pp. 10–13)

Key points of relationship between these passages include:

1. Consistency in teaching: Both passages present a stricter view on divorce than was common in Jewish practice at the time, emphasizing the permanence of marriage.
2. Exception clause: Both include the exception for sexual immorality (porneia), though some early manuscripts of Matthew 19:9 omit this clause.
3. Reference to Old Testament law: While Matthew 5 briefly mentions the certificate of divorce, Matthew 19 engages more deeply with the Mosaic law, explaining why it allowed divorce despite God’s original intention.
4. Spiritual consequences: Both passages link improper divorce with adultery, highlighting the spiritual significance of the marriage covenant.
5. Broader context: Matthew 5 presents this teaching as part of Jesus’ ethical instructions, while Matthew 19 shows Jesus applying this teaching in response to a specific challenge from religious leaders.

Psychologically these passages together present a holistic view of Jesus’ teaching on marriage. They address both the ideal (permanent, faithful union) and the reality of human brokenness that sometimes leads to divorce.

Historically, these passages have been foundational in shaping Christian doctrine on marriage and divorce. The Catholic for instance, has traditionally emphasized the indissolubility of marriage based largely on these teachings, while Protestant traditions have varied in their interpretations, particularly regarding the application of the exception clause.

I see in these passages a call to uphold the sanctity and permanence of marriage while also recognizing the complexities of human relationships. They challenge us to view marriage not merely as a social contract but as a spiritual covenant reflecting God’s faithful love.

In pastoral application, these passages remind us of the importance of preparing couples well for marriage, supporting them through difficulties, and approaching situations of marital breakdown with both moral clarity and compassionate understanding. They call us to a high standard in our relationships while always remembering the grace and forgiveness that are central to the Gospel message.

What did the early Church Fathers teach about divorce based on Matthew 5:31-32?

In the first centuries after Christ, we find a general consensus among the Fathers that divorce and remarriage were not permitted for Christians, based on their reading of Matthew 5:31-32 and parallel passages (Newey, 2002, pp. 269–285; Wong, 2017). But there was some diversity in how strictly this was applied. Origen, for instance, recognized that civil law allowed divorce maintained that for Christians, marriage should be indissoluble except in cases of adultery (Newey, 2002, pp. 269–285).

Augustine, whose influence shaped much of Western Christianity’s approach, argued forcefully against divorce and remarriage. He saw marriage as a sacramental bond that could not be broken, even by adultery. For Augustine, the “exception clause” in Matthew referred only to separation, not the dissolution of the marriage bond (Newey, 2002, pp. 269–285). This strict interpretation became dominant in the Western Church.

In the Eastern tradition, we see a somewhat more flexible approach. While still viewing divorce as contrary to God’s ideal, some Eastern Fathers allowed for the possibility of remarriage in certain circumstances, particularly in cases of adultery. They tended to interpret Matthew’s exception clause as permitting both divorce and remarriage in such cases (Newey, 2002, pp. 269–285).

The Fathers were not merely engaging in abstract theological debates. They were wrestling with how to apply Christ’s teachings in a world where divorce was common and often left women in precarious social and economic situations. Their concern was both for upholding the sanctity of marriage and for protecting vulnerable members of the community.

As we consider their teachings, we must remember that the Fathers were men of their time, influenced by cultural assumptions about gender and marriage that we may now question. Yet their fundamental commitment to the permanence of marriage as reflecting God’s faithful love continues to challenge and inspire us.

In our modern context, we are called to hold in tension the ideal of lifelong marriage with the reality of human brokenness and the need for mercy. The teachings of the Fathers remind us of the seriousness with which we must approach marriage and divorce, while also calling us to deeper reflection on how we can support those whose marriages have failed and help them find healing and hope in Christ.

How should Christians apply Jesus’ teachings on divorce today?

We must reaffirm the beauty and permanence of marriage as God’s design. Jesus’ teachings call us to a radical commitment in marriage, one that reflects God’s own faithfulness to His people (Stassen & Gushee, 2003). This ideal should shape our approach to marriage preparation, counseling, and support within our faith communities. We must work tirelessly to build a culture that nurtures strong, loving marriages.

But we cannot ignore the reality of broken relationships in our fallen world. While maintaining the ideal, we must also create spaces of healing and restoration for those who have experienced the pain of divorce. The Church should be a place of refuge and renewal, not of judgment and exclusion (Stassen & Gushee, 2003).

In applying Jesus’ teachings, we must be careful not to fall into legalism on one hand or permissiveness on the other. A nuanced approach recognizes that there may be situations – such as abuse, abandonment, or unrepentant adultery – where separation or even divorce may be necessary for the well-being and safety of individuals and families (Folarin, 2011, pp. 1–1). In such cases, the Church should offer support and guidance, helping people navigate difficult decisions with wisdom and grace.

For those who have experienced divorce, we must emphasize God’s forgiveness and the possibility of a new beginning. While recognizing the gravity of divorce, we must also proclaim the power of Christ’s redemption. The Church should offer programs of healing and support, helping divorced individuals find wholeness and, when appropriate, prepare for future relationships (Stassen & Gushee, 2003).

Regarding remarriage after divorce, we must approach each situation with careful discernment. While some Christian traditions maintain a strict prohibition on remarriage, others allow for it in certain circumstances. Whatever our theological position, we must ensure that our response is grounded in both truth and love, seeking to uphold the sanctity of marriage while also recognizing God’s grace and the possibility of restoration (Folarin, 2011, pp. 1–1).

Applying Jesus’ teachings on divorce today requires us to hold in tension the high calling of marriage with the reality of human brokenness. We are called to be a community that upholds God’s ideal for marriage, offers compassion and support to those struggling in their relationships, provides a path of healing for the divorced, and always points to the transformative power of God’s love and forgiveness.

What does “makes her commit adultery” mean in Matthew 5:32?

We must understand the cultural context of Jesus’ time. In first-century Jewish society, a woman’s social and economic status was largely dependent on her marital status (Wong, 2017). A divorced woman often faced major hardship and might be compelled to remarry for survival. Jesus’ words here are not a condemnation of the woman rather a stark illustration of the serious consequences of divorce in that society.

The phrase “makes her commit adultery” (ποιεῖ αὐτὴν μοιχευθῆναι in Greek) uses a causative construction. This suggests that the man’s action of divorcing his wife puts her in a position where adultery becomes likely or even necessary from a societal perspective (Tine, 2018, pp. 399–418). Jesus is not saying the woman herself is morally culpable rather that the man’s action has created a situation that leads to what was considered adultery.

Some scholars interpret this phrase in light of Jesus’ teaching that marriage is intended to be a permanent bond. From this perspective, any subsequent marriage after an invalid divorce would be considered adulterous because the original marriage bond remains intact in God’s eyes (Tine, 2018, pp. 399–418). This interpretation emphasizes the gravity with which Jesus viewed divorce and remarriage.

But we must be cautious about applying this teaching legalistically or using it to heap further shame on those who have experienced divorce. Jesus’ words here are part of a larger critique of a system that allowed men to divorce their wives easily, often leaving women vulnerable. His teaching aims to protect the sanctity of marriage and the dignity of women.

In our modern context, where divorce does not necessarily lead to the same social and economic consequences for women, we must reflect deeply on how to apply this teaching. The core principle remains: we should take marriage seriously and recognize the powerful impact that its dissolution can have on individuals, families, and society.

As pastors and counselors, we must approach those who have experienced divorce with great compassion, recognizing the pain and complexity of their situations. While upholding the ideal of lifelong marriage, we must also proclaim God’s forgiveness and the possibility of healing and new beginnings.

Jesus’ challenging words call us to a higher view of marriage as a reflection of God’s faithful love. They remind us of our responsibility to support and nurture marriages in our communities. At the same time, they challenge us to create a society and a Church where the vulnerable are protected and where those who have experienced the pain of divorce can find grace, healing, and restoration in Christ.

How do other Bible passages about marriage and divorce connect to Matthew 5:31-32?

The Old Testament also recognizes the reality of divorce. Deuteronomy 24:1-4 provides regulations for divorce, which Jesus refers to in Matthew 19:7-8. Here, Jesus explains that Moses allowed divorce because of the “hardness of your hearts,” but that this was not God’s original intention (Wong, 2017). This helps us understand that Matthew 5:31-32 is part of Jesus’ restoration of God’s ideal for marriage, while also acknowledging the brokenness of human relationships.

In the New Testament, we find Paul addressing marriage and divorce in 1 Corinthians 7. While affirming Jesus’ teaching on the permanence of marriage, Paul also deals with specific situations not addressed in the Gospels, such as marriages between believers and unbelievers (Newey, 2002, pp. 269–285). Paul’s nuanced approach reminds us that applying Jesus’ teaching requires wisdom and discernment in diverse circumstances.

The metaphor of marriage is also used throughout Scripture to describe God’s relationship with His people. In the Old Testament, Israel’s unfaithfulness is often depicted as adultery, yet God remains faithful (e.g., Hosea 1-3). In the New Testament, the Church is described as the Bride of Christ (Ephesians 5:25-32). These passages deepen our understanding of marriage as a covenant relationship reflecting God’s faithful love (Newey, 2002, pp. 269–285).

We must also consider passages that speak of God’s compassion and forgiveness. The story of the woman at the well in John 4, for instance, shows Jesus’ gentle approach to a woman with a complex marital history. This reminds us that while upholding the sanctity of marriage, we must also extend Christ’s compassion to those who have experienced brokenness in their relationships.

What hope does the Bible offer for those who have experienced divorce?

My dear brothers and sisters who have known the pain of divorce, I want to speak to your hearts today about the hope that our loving God offers you. Although the Bible upholds the sanctity of marriage, it is also a story of God’s unfailing love for His imperfect people. In this divine narrative, we find powerful hope for healing and restoration, even in the aftermath of divorce.

We must remember that God’s love for you is unchanging and unconditional. The prophet Jeremiah reminds us of God’s words: “I have loved you with an everlasting love” (Jeremiah 31:3). This love does not diminish because of divorce. Our Lord Jesus Christ, who welcomed sinners and ate with them, offers the same embrace to those who have experienced the brokenness of divorce (Stassen & Gushee, 2003).

The Scriptures are filled with stories of God’s redemption of broken situations. Consider the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:1-42), who had been married five times. Jesus engaged her with compassion, offering her living water and a new beginning. This encounter reminds us that Christ’s love and acceptance are not limited by our past relationships (Stassen & Gushee, 2003).

The Bible assures us of God’s forgiveness. 1 John 1:9 promises, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” This includes any sins related to the breakdown of a marriage. God’s mercy is greater than our mistakes, and His grace offers us a clean slate.

The Psalms, in particular, offer solace to the brokenhearted. Psalm 34:18 assures us that “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” In your pain and disappointment, know that God draws especially near to you, offering comfort and strength.

The Bible speaks of God’s power to bring beauty from ashes (Isaiah 61:3). Your experience of divorce, painful as it is, can become a testimony to God’s healing power and an opportunity for spiritual growth. Many who have walked this difficult path have found that it led them to a deeper, more authentic relationship with God.

The New Testament also offers hope for new beginnings. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This promise of renewal extends to all areas of our lives, including our relationships. While honoring the seriousness of marriage, we must also recognize God’s power to restore and renew.

For those considering remarriage, wisdom and discernment are needed. Yet, we see in Scripture that God can bless subsequent marriages, as in the case of Ruth and Boaz. This story reminds us that God’s plans for our lives don’t end with divorce (Stassen & Gushee, 2003).

The journey after divorce is not easy you do not walk it alone. The Bible offers you hope – hope of God’s unwavering love, hope of forgiveness and new beginnings, hope of healing and restoration. May you find comfort in God’s Word and in the community of faith. Remember, in Christ, your identity is not defined by your marital status but by your belovedness as a child of God. Let this truth be a balm to your soul and a light guiding you towards a future filled with hope and purpose.