Matthew 19:3-12, Mark 10:1-12, Luke 16:18
Jesus was tested over and over again on many issues, this question on marriage and divorce was just another opportunity for the Pharisees to try and turn the people against Him. The Jews were divided on the matter of divorce, some said a man could divorce for very trifle reasons, others felt it only allowable for uncleanness. Trying to trap Jesus they posed this question, rather than to be pulled into that debate Jesus drew them back to the truth in Genesis concerning God's original design for marriage. God made men and women for one another, when they join together in marriage two people in essence become as one. They complete each other and should never separate. This was and still is God's plan for the human race. Marriage then should be entered into with a great deal of thought and commitment but human nature does not always take that course. So many times we become selfish and self-centered concerning our needs and rather than to put God first in our marriages we allow our hearts to harden and look for a way out. Jesus goes on to talk about the ability for some to remain single for the sake of serving God, but those who are not prepared for the sacrifices of single life should marry. It is rather straight forward simple instruction but my how mankind has complicated this aspect of human relationships.
