Matthew 5:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 5:31
31 It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement:
Chapter Context
Matthew 5 is a ethical teaching chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, sacrifice, fellowship. 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 21-48: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it presents Jesus' ethical teaching in the Sermon on the Mount. 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 5:31
31 It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement:
Analysis
Jesus addresses the Law's provision for divorce (Deuteronomy 24:1-4), which Moses allowed because of hard hearts. But divorce was never God's ideal. The 'writing of divorcement' was meant to protect women from being abandoned without legal status, but men abused this provision.
Historical Context
Jewish rabbis debated divorce grounds extensively. Rabbi Hillel's school allowed divorce for nearly any reason ('she burned dinner'), while Rabbi Shammai permitted it only for adultery. Men could divorce easily; women had no such right. Jesus will affirm Shammai's stricter view.
Reflection
- How has cultural acceptance of easy divorce affected our view of marriage's permanence?
- What does God's original design for marriage teach about His covenant faithfulness?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 19:3, 19:7, Jeremiah 3:1