Matthew 19:5
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 19:5
5 And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?
Chapter Context
Matthew 19 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, truth, creation. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 19:5
5 And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?
Analysis
Jesus quotes Genesis 2:24, establishing marriage's three aspects: leaving parents, cleaving to spouse, becoming one flesh. 'Shall cleave' (Greek 'proskollao'—glue, cement together) indicates permanent bond. 'One flesh' signifies comprehensive union—physical, emotional, spiritual. Reformed marriage theology emphasizes covenant permanence and exclusive intimacy. God's design creates new family unit requiring departure from parents and establishment of new household. This verse grounds heterosexual, monogamous, permanent marriage as God's creation ordinance.
Historical Context
Genesis 2:24 predates Mosaic Law, making marriage a creation ordinance, not merely Jewish custom. The 'one flesh' union finds expression in sexual intimacy (1 Corinthians 6:16) but encompasses total life sharing. Jewish marriage practice included formal leaving of father's household and establishing new home. Jesus' citation shows Genesis authority for Christian ethics.
Reflection
- How does your marriage reflect the leaving, cleaving, one-flesh design?
- What prevents couples from achieving true one-flesh unity?
- How should Christian marriages model God's creation design to watching culture?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Deuteronomy 4:4, 10:20, 11:22, Psalms 45:10, 63:8, Romans 12:9