Matthew 5:32

Afrikaans DB 2006 (Die Boodskap)

“Ek sê egter vandag vir julle: julle mag glad nie skei nie. Dis teen God se wil. Jy mag net van jou vrou skei as sy by iemand anders geslaap het. As jy oor enige ander rede van haar skei, maak jy dat jou vrou owerspel pleeg as sy later weer trou. Omdat haar eerste huwelik nog steeds in God se oë voortgaan, is sy en haar nuwe man dan skuldig aan egbreuk.”

What Does This Mean?

This verse is from Jesus, who says that if someone divorces their wife for reasons other than her committing adultery, it's like causing her to commit adultery. Also, anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a best friend and you decide to not be friends anymore because of something silly. Now, your friend might find another person to play with, but that’s kind of like cheating on the friendship. Jesus is saying we should treat marriages really seriously and only end them for very serious reasons.

Historical Background

Matthew wrote this verse in his Gospel, likely around AD 80-90, aimed at a Jewish-Christian audience. At the time, Jewish law allowed divorce fairly easily, but Jesus was setting stricter standards to protect marriage and relationships.

Living It Out Today

In today's context, consider a couple struggling with communication issues. Instead of separating due to minor problems, they might seek counseling or work harder on their relationship, following Jesus’ teachings about the seriousness of marriage vows.

Topics

• marriage
• divorce
• adultery
• morality
• Jesus' teachings
• faithfulness

Related Verses

• Deuteronomy 24:1-4
• Mark 10:11-12
• Romans 7:1-3
• 1 Corinthians 7:10-11
• Malachi 2:16

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this verse mean that remarriage after divorce is always wrong?

According to Jesus in Matthew 5:32, remarriage after divorce is generally considered adultery unless the initial marriage ended due to adultery. It emphasizes that divorcing a spouse for reasons other than adultery and then remarrying is not acceptable.

How does this verse affect people who are currently divorced?

This verse suggests that those who have divorced without grounds of adultery should consider the seriousness of their actions. However, grace and forgiveness can still apply if one repents and seeks God's guidance in their situation.

Why did Jesus make this statement about divorce?

Jesus made this statement to highlight the sanctity of marriage as intended by God from creation. He wanted to set a higher standard than what was commonly accepted at that time, emphasizing faithfulness and commitment in marital relationships.

How can couples prevent situations leading to divorce?

Couples can strengthen their marriages through open communication, seeking counseling when needed, practicing forgiveness, and prioritizing their relationship with God. These steps help build a strong foundation that can withstand challenges without resorting to divorce.