Matthew 19:1-15

Matthew 19:1 - 15

Once W.C. Fields was found reading the Bible when asked about "why" the old, reprobate unbeliever explained he was looking for loopholes. Jesus's teaching about divorce is about people looking for and wanting justification for their behavior; they were looking for loopholes. Divorce was a big issue at that time. For example, John the Baptist’s death began with his addressing the remarriage of Antipas. At that time all a man had to do to divorce his wife was to send her away and repudiate her. A certificate of divorce was not a product of a court, but a piece of paper from the husband. Because of the selfishness of men, divorce was easy and quick and common. Jesus refers back to God's original intent for marriage: One man with one woman for one lifetime. Jesus was tested when asked if He held to this original intent then why is permission for divorce in the Law of Moses? In the Mosaic Law divorce was a concession to wicked men to keep society from completely degenerating. Evil men want a divorce as a loophole to exploit situations and satisfy their sinful desires. Sinful people are always looking for loopholes. Because of his grace God works with evil men in evil societies by putting limits on their evil, but that must never become the standard for life.

The disciples asked if celibacy is better than marriage. Should people who want to avoid the high and the holy standard of marriage pursue celibacy? They're looking for another loophole. What Jesus admits is that celibacy may be a “called” option; but it is not a generalized one and not an excuse for everyone to avoid the ideal.

Verses 13 - 15 seem odd unless read in the light of Malachi 2:15. One flesh should produce Godly offspring. Jesus’s teaching on divorce and marriage is followed by the children coming to Him and being blessed. When we are looking for loopholes we never end up looking in the right place.

"Lord, keep me from ever thinking of Your grace and mercy as a loophole for my sin. AMEN"