SUMMARY OF MATTHEW 5:31-37
Jesus says that the only reason for divorce is unfaithfulness. Otherwise, if you divorce, if you remarry, you will be committing adultery. Jesus says there is not a need for an oath at all since your word should be strong enough.
BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 6, Day 4: Matthew 5:31-37
9a) Jesus says that the only reason for divorce is unfaithfulness. Otherwise, if you divorce, if you remarry, you will be committing adultery. Mark adds that Moses permitted divorce and a certificate of divorce because their hearts were hard.
b ) Believers can work hard to not divorce for frivolous reasons such as “irreconcilable differences.” However, divorce is a part of this broken world, and supporting others who have been through it is crucial. It is not for us to judge; it’s for us to love.
10a) You do not need to swear an oath ever.
b ) Society has developed white lies in order to spare people’s feelings. It’s important to do this; however, it’s important to be truthful in serious situations.
c ) God.
Conclusions BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 6, Day 4: Matthew 5:31-37
Jesus makes it clear that man and woman were supposed to stay together forever. However, there are legitimate reasons to divorce. Jesus says only for unfaithfulness. I believe abuse is another reason. Either way, divorce is a result of this broken world and broken people, and we all are broken. I remember the times when BSF would not allow a divorced woman to be a leader. I’m glad they changed this rule. This, in and of itself, was judgement. If you have a heart for God and want to share it, do so, whether you are divorced or not.
Great book to help you through tough times.
End Notes BSF Study Questions Matthew Lesson 6, Day 4: Matthew 5:31-37
The certificate of divorce is found here (Deuteronomy 24:1). Many men were divorcing their wives for frivolous reasons. Deuteronomy says that you may divorce if one is unclean. People were streteching this interpretation at this time. Jesus clarifies that “unclean” means committing adultery.
Remember the times Jesus lived in. It was common for the Romans to be unfaithful outside their marriage with no repercussions.
(Exodus 20:7) tells us to not take the Lord’s name in vain. Here, Jesus tells us that every oath you take is by God and must be honored. Jesus says that your word is good enough so you don’t need to swear an oath. That being said, we see oaths in the Bible, even by God himself. Hebrews 6:13 and Luke 1:73, in a court of law Matthew 26:63-64 and more Romans 1:9, 2 Corinthians 1:23, Galatians 1:20, 2 Thessalonians 2:5.
Oaths are allowed just are not needed.
