Matthew 19:8
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 19:8
8 He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.
Chapter Context
Matthew 19 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, holiness, mercy. 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 provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 19:8
8 He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.
Analysis
Jesus explains that Moses permitted divorce 'because of the hardness of your hearts,' but 'from the beginning it was not so.' Divorce represents concession to sin, not God's ideal. The phrase 'hardness of hearts' (Greek 'sklerokardia'—hardness, stubbornness) indicates sinful rebellion requiring legal regulation. Reformed theology distinguishes God's perfect will (permanent marriage) from His permissive will (allowing divorce in fallen world). This verse shows that not every biblical permission reflects God's best but sometimes His accommodation to human sin.
Historical Context
Deuteronomy 24:1-4 regulated divorce but didn't command it. Mosaic Law protected women from arbitrary divorce by requiring written certificate and preventing remarriage to first husband after intervening marriage. Jesus clarifies this was regulatory, not prescriptive—managing sin's consequences, not endorsing divorce. 'From the beginning' appeals to pre-fall creation as normative standard.
Reflection
- How do you distinguish God's ideal from His accommodation to human sin?
- What 'hardness of heart' in yourself needs confronting?
- How should the church balance biblical ideals with pastoral care for broken marriages?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Genesis 2:24