Matthew 5:32
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 5:32
32 But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
Chapter Context
Matthew 5 is a ethical teaching chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of judgment, righteousness, prayer. 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 5:32
32 But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
Analysis
Jesus permits divorce only for fornication (porneia—sexual immorality). Divorcing for other reasons makes the divorced person an adulteress if she remarries, and the man who marries her commits adultery. This protects marriage's sanctity and affirms God's creation design: one man, one woman, for life.
Historical Context
This teaching would have shocked hearers used to easy male-initiated divorce. Jesus protects women from being casually discarded. The 'exception clause' for sexual immorality acknowledges that adultery breaks the covenant bond, but Jesus raises the standard far above contemporary practice.
Reflection
- How does this teaching challenge modern assumptions about personal happiness and self-fulfillment?
- What does Jesus's strict view of marriage reveal about covenant faithfulness and God's character?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 5:28, Luke 16:18, Romans 7:3, 1 Corinthians 7:4