Matthew 19:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 19:6
6 Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
Chapter Context
Matthew 19 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, wisdom, salvation. 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 foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 19:6
6 Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
Analysis
Jesus declares marriage permanence: 'Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder' (Greek: ὥστε οὐκέτι εἰσὶν δύο ἀλλὰ σὰρξ μία, 'so they are no longer two but one flesh'). This quotes Genesis 2:24, establishing marriage as divine creation ordinance. The phrase 'one flesh' (σὰρξ μία) indicates profound union - physical, emotional, spiritual. 'What God has joined' makes God active agent in each marriage, not merely original institution. 'Let not man put asunder' (μὴ χωριζέτω) prohibits human dissolution of divine union. Marriage transcends human contract - it's covenant before God.
Historical Context
Jewish debate between Rabbi Hillel (divorce for any reason) and Rabbi Shammai (only for sexual immorality) forms background. Greco-Roman culture practiced easy divorce, especially men divorcing wives. Jesus returns to creation design (Genesis 1-2) before law's accommodation for hardness of heart (Deuteronomy 24:1-4). His teaching elevated marriage as sacred, permanent covenant, protecting women vulnerable to arbitrary divorce. Early church maintained high marriage standards despite cultural pressure, though debating remarriage exceptions.
Reflection
- How does recognizing God's active role in marriage joining affect commitment?
- What does 'one flesh' union mean beyond physical intimacy?
- How should this teaching shape Christian approach to marriage struggles?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- References God: Proverbs 2:17, Mark 10:9, Hebrews 13:4
- Parallel theme: Malachi 2:14, Romans 7:2, Ephesians 5:28