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The topic of divorce was a hot-button issue back in Jesus’ time, and it remains the same today. Back then, it was the issue that ultimately landed John the Baptist in prison shortly before his beheading. Herod had gone to Rome, where he met Herodias, the wife of his half-brother Philip. After seducing Herodius, Herod divorced his own wife and married Herodias. John spoke out against this action.
“For when Herod had John arrested, he bound him and put him in prison because of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip. 4 For John had been saying to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.””
Matthew 14:3-4 NASB
Rabbis were split on the issue of divorce and it basically came down to two schools of thought – the school of Shammai and the school of Hillel. Basically, Shammai was more strict and traditional in their view while Hillel tended to be more lenient. On this particular issue, Shammai taught it was only right for divorce to occur under infidelity while Hillel believed that anything which displeased the husband was grounds for a divorce.
The reason this background is important is because it helps us to understand how the question is posed to Jesus and how his disciples react to the answer. The question the Pharisees ask is a direct reference to the Hillel version because they say, “for any reason at all.” It is uncertain whether they were attacking this view or seeking affirmation for this view, however, in studying the passage it seems most scholars believe the Pharisees framed the question this way because they favored the Hillel teaching.
What can we take from Jesus’ response? He appeals to God’s standard of marriage by making it clear that marriage is intended to be for one man and one woman and is considered the strongest, most permanent covenantal bond ever created. When pushed on the issue of divorce, Jesus appeals to the hardness of the human heart. So what can we ultimately take from this?
God hates divorce, but – and this is important – divorce is not unforgivable. Many today are quick to judge and point the finger at those who have been through divorce forgetting that there is no sin which overcomes the cross. People who have been divorced – for whatever reason – are able to be forgiven and restored. However, they also have the responsibility to evaluate their decisions, and in grace, turn from their old ways. Ultimately, this tough topic comes down to your relationship with God and direction from the Holy Spirit. It’s a sensitive subject that we must talk about with grace and truth.