MATTHEW 5: 31,32
Intro: Importance of systematic study of scripture, Background.
I. WHAT DID MOSES TEACH ABOUT DIVORCE?
A. Deut. 24: 1-4.
1. No mention of Adultery (this a different matter).
2. Purpose to control divorce.
3. End chaos of times.
a. Women held in low regard.
B. Three great principles.
1. Limited divorce to certain causes. Natural moral or physical defect.
2. Must give her writing of Bill of divorcement.
a. Before law all he had to do was turn her out of the house.
1. She might be charged with adultery, etc. when in truth she
just burned his breakfast.
3. Once he divorced not allowed to remarry her.
a. With bill of divorcement she could marry someone else.
Purpose: To show these people marriage is not something you just walk out on at will. Divorce
is permanent enactment.
II. TEACHING OF PHARISEES AND SCRIBES.
A. They taught the law commanded even urged a man to divorce for certain reasons.
1. Law never commanded divorce.
a. If you want one this is the way you do it.
B. They broadened Mosaic term uncleanness to mean most anything.
1. If a man just ceased to like his wife.
C. Only facet rigidly insisted upon writing of Bill of Divorcement. They did not
however state why.
III. WHAT DOES JESUS TEACH ABOUT IT? vs. 32.
A. Matt. 19:3-9 Important and helpful.
1. Lead question "Is it lawful."
2. Christ first emphasizes sanctity of marriage.
a. He goes back beyond Mosaic law to original.
"The twain shall be one flesh."
3. Why did Moses broaden?
Hardness of their hearts.
B. God has never commanded anyone to divorce.
1. Commanded to write bill.
C. There is one cause and legitimate reason for divorce.
1. Not a commandment but a grounds for divorce.
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