Jesus' Teachings on Marriage: Righteousness and Commitment
Summary
### Summary
In today's sermon, we delved into Jesus' teachings on marriage and divorce as part of our ongoing series on the Sermon on the Mount. We began by examining Matthew 5:20, where Jesus sets a high standard for righteousness, one that surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees. This standard is crucial for entering the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus then addresses the issue of divorce in Matthew 5:31-32, emphasizing that divorce should only occur in cases of sexual immorality. This teaching challenges the lenient divorce practices of His time, which allowed men to divorce their wives for trivial reasons.
I shared a personal story about how my parents' divorce impacted me deeply, illustrating the long-lasting effects of such decisions. Jesus' teachings on marriage and divorce are not just about legalities but about the condition of our hearts. Anger, lust, and contempt are heart issues that can lead to actions like murder and adultery. Jesus calls us to address these internal issues to align with the righteousness required for the Kingdom of Heaven.
We also explored the cultural context of Jesus' time, where divorce was often devastating for women, leaving them with limited options. Jesus' strict stance on divorce aims to protect the sanctity of marriage and the well-being of all involved. We discussed the importance of adopting God's view of marriage, which is a sacred covenant meant to last a lifetime. This view contrasts sharply with the casual approach to marriage and divorce prevalent in our society today.
Finally, we looked at the Apostle Paul's teachings in 1 Corinthians 7, where he makes a concession for divorce in cases where an unbelieving spouse wishes to leave. However, the overarching message is to continue in love, striving to maintain the marriage covenant as much as possible. Marriage is more than a legal contract; it is a reflection of the eternal relationship between Christ and the Church.
### Key Takeaways
1. Righteousness and the Kingdom of Heaven: Jesus sets a high standard for righteousness, one that surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees. This standard is not just about external actions but the condition of our hearts. Anger, lust, and contempt are internal issues that must be addressed to align with the righteousness required for the Kingdom of Heaven. [03:10]
2. The Sanctity of Marriage: Jesus teaches that marriage is a sacred covenant meant to last a lifetime. Divorce should only occur in cases of sexual immorality. This teaching challenges the lenient divorce practices of His time and calls us to view marriage as a lifelong commitment. [06:46]
3. Cultural Context and Consequences: In Jesus' time, divorce was often devastating for women, leaving them with limited options. Jesus' strict stance on divorce aims to protect the sanctity of marriage and the well-being of all involved. Divorce has far-reaching consequences, affecting not just the couple but also their families and communities. [36:20]
4. Adopting God's View of Marriage: As Christians, we are called to adopt God's view of marriage, which is a sacred covenant overseen by God. This view contrasts sharply with the casual approach to marriage and divorce prevalent in our society today. We must commit to God's standards and strive to honor and cherish our spouses. [23:13]
5. Continuing in Love: The Apostle Paul makes a concession for divorce in cases where an unbelieving spouse wishes to leave. However, the overarching message is to continue in love, striving to maintain the marriage covenant as much as possible. Marriage is a reflection of the eternal relationship between Christ and the Church, and we must strive to uphold its sanctity. [39:01]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:11] - Introduction and Scripture Reading
[02:22] - Personal Story on Divorce
[03:10] - Righteousness and the Kingdom of Heaven
[04:03] - Heart Issues: Anger and Lust
[06:46] - Jesus' Teaching on Marriage and Divorce
[08:02] - Statistics on Divorce in the Church
[09:25] - Cultural Context of Divorce
[11:35] - Jesus' Comprehensive Teaching on Marriage
[13:21] - Misinterpretation of Moses' Command
[16:18] - Legal vs. Righteous Actions
[19:03] - Following Jesus' Interpretation
[20:06] - God's Involvement in Marriage
[21:18] - Marriage as a Reflection of Christ and the Church
[23:13] - Committing to God's View of Marriage
[26:00] - Jesus' Limited Grounds for Divorce
[28:36] - The Role of Anger, Contempt, and Lust in Divorce
[29:35] - The Intimacy Triangle
[32:28] - Consequences of Divorce
[36:20] - Divorce in Jesus' Day
[39:01] - Continuing in Love
[43:42] - The Righteousness of the Kingdom
[46:16] - Marriage as a Reflection of an Eternal Relationship
[48:22] - Prayer and Conclusion
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 5:20 - "For I say to you that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven."
2. Matthew 5:31-32 - "Furthermore, it has been said, 'Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.' But I say to you that whoever divorces his wife for any reason except sexual immorality causes her to commit adultery; and whoever marries a woman who is divorced commits adultery."
3. 1 Corinthians 7:12-17 - "But to the rest I, not the Lord, say: If any brother has a wife who does not believe, and she is willing to live with him, let him not divorce her. And a woman who has a husband who does not believe, if he is willing to live with her, let her not divorce him. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband; otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy. But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart; a brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases. But God has called us to peace. For how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, O husband, whether you will save your wife? But as God has distributed to each one, as the Lord has called each one, so let him walk. And so I ordain in all the churches."
### Observation Questions
1. What does Jesus say about the standard of righteousness required to enter the Kingdom of Heaven in Matthew 5:20?
2. According to Matthew 5:31-32, under what condition does Jesus permit divorce?
3. How does the Apostle Paul address the issue of marriage between a believer and an unbeliever in 1 Corinthians 7:12-17?
4. What personal story did the pastor share to illustrate the impact of divorce? [02:22]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does Jesus set such a high standard for righteousness in Matthew 5:20, and how does it relate to the condition of our hearts? [03:10]
2. How does Jesus' teaching on divorce in Matthew 5:31-32 challenge the lenient divorce practices of His time? [06:46]
3. In what ways does the cultural context of Jesus' time, where divorce was often devastating for women, influence His strict stance on divorce? [36:20]
4. How does the Apostle Paul's concession for divorce in 1 Corinthians 7:12-17 reflect the overarching message of continuing in love and striving to maintain the marriage covenant? [39:01]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own understanding of righteousness. How can you address internal issues like anger, lust, and contempt to align with the righteousness required for the Kingdom of Heaven? [03:10]
2. How do you view marriage in light of Jesus' teaching that it is a sacred covenant meant to last a lifetime? What steps can you take to honor and cherish your spouse more deeply? [06:46]
3. Considering the cultural context of Jesus' time, how can we as a church support those who are going through or have gone through a divorce, especially women who may be more vulnerable? [36:20]
4. How can you adopt God's view of marriage in your own life, especially in a society that often takes a casual approach to marriage and divorce? [23:13]
5. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult situation in your marriage or relationship. How did you strive to continue in love, and what can you learn from that experience to apply in the future? [39:01]
6. How can you support friends or family members who are struggling in their marriages to seek reconciliation and continue in love, rather than quickly resorting to divorce? [43:42]
7. What practical steps can you take this week to strengthen your marriage or relationship, ensuring it reflects the eternal relationship between Christ and the Church? [46:16]
Devotional
Day 1: The Heart of Righteousness
Jesus sets a high standard for righteousness, one that surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees. This standard is not just about external actions but the condition of our hearts. Anger, lust, and contempt are internal issues that must be addressed to align with the righteousness required for the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus emphasizes that true righteousness begins within, challenging us to examine our hearts and motives. He calls us to a deeper level of integrity and purity, one that goes beyond mere rule-following to a transformation of our inner being. This transformation is essential for entering the Kingdom of Heaven, as it reflects a heart aligned with God's will and character.
Matthew 5:20 states, "For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." This verse underscores the importance of internal righteousness over external compliance. Jesus' teachings remind us that God looks at the heart, and true righteousness involves addressing the root causes of sin, such as anger and lust, which can lead to actions like murder and adultery. By focusing on our heart's condition, we can cultivate a righteousness that aligns with God's standards and prepares us for His Kingdom.
Matthew 5:20 (ESV): "For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven."
Reflection: What internal issues—such as anger, lust, or contempt—do you need to address to align your heart with the righteousness required for the Kingdom of Heaven? How can you begin to work on these areas today? [03:10]
Day 2: The Sacredness of Marriage
Jesus teaches that marriage is a sacred covenant meant to last a lifetime. Divorce should only occur in cases of sexual immorality. This teaching challenges the lenient divorce practices of His time and calls us to view marriage as a lifelong commitment. In a world where marriage is often seen as a temporary arrangement, Jesus' words remind us of the sanctity and permanence of the marital bond. He elevates the commitment of marriage, urging us to honor and cherish our spouses as part of our covenant with God.
Jesus' strict stance on divorce aims to protect the sanctity of marriage and the well-being of all involved. By limiting the grounds for divorce to cases of sexual immorality, He underscores the seriousness of the marriage covenant. This teaching calls us to a higher standard of commitment and fidelity, reflecting God's unwavering love and faithfulness. As we strive to uphold the sanctity of marriage, we demonstrate our dedication to God's design for relationships and our willingness to follow His commands.
Matthew 19:6 (ESV): "So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate."
Reflection: How do you view the commitment of marriage in light of Jesus' teachings? What steps can you take to honor and cherish your spouse as part of your covenant with God? [06:46]
Day 3: Understanding Cultural Context
In Jesus' time, divorce was often devastating for women, leaving them with limited options. Jesus' strict stance on divorce aims to protect the sanctity of marriage and the well-being of all involved. Divorce has far-reaching consequences, affecting not just the couple but also their families and communities. By understanding the cultural context of Jesus' teachings, we can better appreciate the protective and compassionate nature of His words. Jesus' emphasis on the sanctity of marriage serves as a safeguard against the injustices and hardships that divorce can bring, particularly for vulnerable individuals.
Jesus' teachings challenge the casual approach to marriage and divorce prevalent in our society today. He calls us to adopt a view of marriage that reflects God's design and purpose. By committing to God's standards, we can create strong, lasting marriages that honor Him and provide stability and support for our families and communities. As we strive to uphold the sanctity of marriage, we demonstrate our commitment to God's will and our desire to live according to His principles.
Malachi 2:16 (ESV): "For the man who does not love his wife but divorces her, says the Lord, the God of Israel, covers his garment with violence, says the Lord of hosts. So guard yourselves in your spirit, and do not be faithless."
Reflection: How does understanding the cultural context of Jesus' teachings on divorce help you appreciate the protective and compassionate nature of His words? What can you do to support and uphold the sanctity of marriage in your community? [36:20]
Day 4: Committing to God's View of Marriage
As Christians, we are called to adopt God's view of marriage, which is a sacred covenant overseen by God. This view contrasts sharply with the casual approach to marriage and divorce prevalent in our society today. We must commit to God's standards and strive to honor and cherish our spouses. By embracing God's perspective on marriage, we can build strong, lasting relationships that reflect His love and faithfulness. This commitment requires us to prioritize our marriages, invest in our relationships, and seek God's guidance in all aspects of our marital lives.
God's view of marriage is one of permanence and dedication. He designed marriage to be a lifelong union that mirrors the relationship between Christ and the Church. As we commit to this view, we demonstrate our willingness to follow God's commands and align our lives with His will. By honoring our marriage covenants, we can experience the blessings of a strong, loving relationship that brings glory to God and provides a foundation for our families and communities.
Ephesians 5:31-32 (ESV): "Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh. This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church."
Reflection: How can you commit to God's view of marriage in your own relationship? What practical steps can you take to honor and cherish your spouse according to God's standards? [23:13]
Day 5: Continuing in Love
The Apostle Paul makes a concession for divorce in cases where an unbelieving spouse wishes to leave. However, the overarching message is to continue in love, striving to maintain the marriage covenant as much as possible. Marriage is a reflection of the eternal relationship between Christ and the Church, and we must strive to uphold its sanctity. By continuing in love, we can overcome challenges and strengthen our marriages, demonstrating the love and commitment that God desires for us.
Paul's teachings remind us that love is the foundation of a strong marriage. Even in difficult circumstances, we are called to love our spouses and work towards reconciliation and unity. By prioritizing love and seeking God's guidance, we can navigate the challenges of marriage and build relationships that reflect His grace and faithfulness. As we strive to maintain our marriage covenants, we honor God and provide a powerful testimony of His love to the world.
1 Corinthians 7:15-16 (ESV): "But if the unbelieving partner separates, let it be so. In such cases the brother or sister is not enslaved. God has called you to peace. For how do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife?"
Reflection: How can you continue in love and strive to maintain your marriage covenant, even in challenging circumstances? What steps can you take to prioritize love and seek God's guidance in your relationship? [39:01]
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Everyone is invited. No matter if you're rich or poor. No matter if you're what the society says are the best or the worst. Everyone is invited to the kingdom. But then he says, for you to enter in the kingdom, there's a standard that you have to live up to." [03:10] (17 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Doing what is legal is not always the same as doing what is righteous. And that applies across the board, but I want to say that again. Doing what is legal, just because America says it's legal, just because our court of law says it's legal, doesn't make it righteous. There are a lot of things that are legal, but not righteous. Amen?" [19:03] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Marriage is more than just marriage. It's more than just a commitment between two people. It's a reflection of an eternal relationship between God and His church. It's a covenant between a man and a woman overseen by God who have been brought together. And no matter what you do, if you take two things that have been glued together, if you try to tear them apart, you will not get it clean." [46:16] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "If we will do these things, then what will happen is we'll elevate marriage in our culture to Christ's standards. We may not change culture, but we can live by Christ's standards and people can see a better way. If we can do these things, single Christians won't settle for less. Amen? Ladies, you deserve better than just whatever. Guys, you deserve better than just whatever. Amen?" [47:13] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Listen, no matter what your personal experience has been, there's no condemnation to those who are in Christ. We enter the Kingdom of Heaven according to God's standard, and that standard was fulfilled in Christ. So come to Christ. Bring your past to Christ. Bring your current relationships to Christ. Submit your future to Christ. This is the way to Heaven." [48:22] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Your stance on divorce will be determined by your convictions about marriage. What you believe to be true about marriage will determine for you how open or how closed you are to the topic of divorce, how willing you are to engage in conversations about that or see that as an option or how unwilling you are to do so. And our culture does not see marriage the same way Jesus does." [08:02] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Adopting Jesus' convictions about marriage is going to change the way we approach both marriage and divorce. And when we see marriage as a sacred institution and a covenantal relationship, then we'll actually begin to view it properly, honor it, esteem it properly." [11:35] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "The problem that Jesus was addressing is very simple. Doing what is legal is not always the same as doing what is righteous. And that applies across the board, but I want to say that again. Doing what is legal, just because America says it's legal, just because our court of law says it's legal, doesn't make it righteous. There are a lot of things that are legal, but not righteous. Amen?" [19:03] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "To Jesus, marriage is so much more than a simple arrangement between consenting adults. And here's the thing. It may begin that way. It may carry those ideas that we love each other, we think we love each other, we think we're compatible, we think we're there for each other. But when a man and woman come before God in marriage, God becomes involved. It's not just the man and it's not just the woman. God has put them together. And Jesus said, no man should separate what God has put together." [20:06] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Jesus is teaching on what? The righteousness of the kingdom. That's his big point. He's focused on relationships between brothers. He says if you and your brother have an issue with each other, he's talking about relationships between men and women. If you look at a woman, a lust in your heart or vice versa. And now he's talking about relationships with spouses. And he's described in all of these case studies that how we relate to one another affects how we relate to God." [44:24] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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