Matthew 19:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 19:7
7 They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away?
Chapter Context
Matthew 19 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, mercy, obedience. 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 demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. 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 19:7
7 They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away?
Analysis
Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement (βιβλίον ἀποστασίου, biblion apostasiou)—The Pharisees' question exposes their fundamental misunderstanding. Moses did not command (ἐντέλλομαι, entellomai) divorce; he permitted it as a regulatory concession to human hardness of heart (v. 8). The biblion apostasiou (certificate of divorce) in Deuteronomy 24:1-4 was a protective measure for women in a patriarchal society, not divine endorsement of divorce.
Jesus's response redirects them to creation's original design (Gen. 1:27, 2:24), establishing that God's ideal precedes and supersedes Mosaic accommodation. The law regulated sin's consequences without endorsing sin itself—a pattern seen throughout Torah's civil legislation.
Historical Context
In first-century Judaism, the schools of Hillel and Shammai debated the grounds for divorce. Hillel permitted divorce for almost any reason; Shammai restricted it to sexual immorality. The Pharisees sought to trap Jesus by forcing him to choose sides in this contentious rabbinic debate, potentially alienating either the strict or lenient factions.
Reflection
- How does Jesus's distinction between divine command and Mosaic permission apply to other Old Testament regulations that seem inconsistent with the New Covenant?
- What does this exchange reveal about the danger of using Scripture to justify what God merely tolerates?
- How should the church balance Christ's high standard for marriage with pastoral care for those affected by divorce?
Cross-References
- References Moses: Mark 10:4
- Parallel theme: Matthew 1:19, 5:31, Isaiah 50:1, Jeremiah 3:8, Malachi 2:16