New Testament · Gospel

Matthew 19:9

The Cost of Following

Now I tell you that whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.” Matthew 19:9 · Berean Standard Bible
What It Means

Matthew 19:9, in plain English

Jesus gives a clear answer: divorce except for unfaithfulness leads to adultery if you remarry. The standard is high.

Why it's here

Jesus doesn't dodge the question. He gives a direct answer that's stricter than what most people expected.

Who's speaking

Jesus speaks with authority on a question that still matters deeply today.

Where it sits in the story

After going back to the beginning, Jesus gives His ruling. It's not what either side expected, and it raises the bar.

A Closer Look

The scholarly reading

Jesus gives His own ruling: divorce is permitted only on the ground of porneia (sexual immorality); remarriage after any other divorce constitutes adultery (moichatai).

Language and setting

The 'exception clause' (mē epi porneia) is unique to Matthew and has generated extensive debate; it broadly aligns with the stricter Shammaite position.

Voice

Jesus issues an authoritative halakhic pronouncement on divorce and remarriage.

Significance

Jesus takes a position stricter than either rabbinic school expected, asserting His own authority over the interpretation of Torah.

In context

Matthew 19:7–11

7“Why then,” they asked, “did Moses order a man to give his wife a certificate of divorce and send her away?”

8Jesus replied, “Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because of your hardness of heart. But it was not this way from the beginning.

9Now I tell you that whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.”

10His disciples said to Him, “If this is the case between a man and his wife, it is better not to marry.”

11“Not everyone can accept this word,” He replied, “but only those to whom it has been given.

Read all of Matthew 19 — A rich young man walks away sad, children are welcomed, and the disciples wonder who can possibly be saved. Jesus redefines what it costs to follow him.

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