In this passage, the Pharisees approach Jesus with a question about divorce, seeking to test Him. They inquire whether it is lawful for a man to divorce his wife. Jesus responds by redirecting their attention to what Moses commanded regarding divorce.
The Pharisees refer to the provision in the Mosaic Law that allowed for a certificate of divorce to be written, which would permit a man to divorce his wife. Jesus acknowledges that Moses indeed allowed this provision but highlights that it was due to the hardness of people's hearts.
Jesus' response reveals a contrast between the original intention of marriage and the concession made due to human brokenness. He points out that from the beginning, when God created male and female, the intention was for marriage to be a lifelong union. However, due to the fallen nature of humanity, God allowed for divorce as a means of regulating the brokenness and conflicts that could arise in relationships.
This passage serves as a reminder of God's original design for marriage—a sacred covenant between a man and a woman intended to last a lifetime. Jesus emphasizes the importance of understanding the heart behind God's commandments and not merely focusing on the legalistic aspects.
Throughout the New Testament, Jesus expands on His teachings about marriage and divorce. In Matthew 19:3-9, Jesus clarifies that divorce was allowed by Moses because of the hardness of people's hearts, but He points back to the original plan of God for marriage, stating that what God has joined together, let no one separate.
Jesus' teachings on marriage and divorce reflect a call to a higher standard of love, faithfulness, and commitment within the marital relationship. He emphasizes the importance of cherishing and honoring the covenant of marriage, seeking reconciliation rather than easy ways out through divorce.
As followers of Christ, we are called to approach marriage with a deep sense of reverence, commitment, and self-sacrificial love. We should strive to build healthy, loving, and lifelong marriages, supporting and uplifting one another as we journey together.
It is important to note that while divorce is allowed in cases of sexual immorality or abandonment (Matthew 19:9, 1 Corinthians 7:15), it is not something that should be entered into lightly or as an easy solution to marital challenges. The teachings of Jesus and the New Testament encourage couples to work through difficulties, seek forgiveness and reconciliation, and approach marriage with a Christ-like love and commitment.
In conclusion, Mark 10:2-5 addresses the topic of divorce as the Pharisees question Jesus about its legality. Jesus points out the original intent of marriage and highlights the concession made due to human brokenness. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the heart behind God's commandments and upholding the sacredness of marriage. As believers, we are called to approach marriage with reverence, commitment, and self-sacrificial love, seeking reconciliation and honoring the covenant we have made.
Mark 10:2-5. Pharisees came to him testing him, and asked him, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” He answered, “What did Moses command you?” They said, “Moses allowed a certificate of divorce to be written, and to divorce her.” But Jesus said to them, “For your hardness of heart, he wrote you this commandment."