The Pharisees were constantly questioning Jesus, and this time they were questioning him about divorce, whether it was lawful and referencing the commands Moses gave regarding allowing divorce. Like we often see him do, Jesus responds to the Pharisees by quoting a scripture they would have been very familiar with – That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh (Genesis 2:24).

Jesus reiterates that the husband and wife are meant to be united so firmly that they are joined inseparably, like a glue that adheres so strongly there is nothing that can pull them apart. When they come together, there is no longer ‘his way’ and ‘her way’, but instead ‘their way’ united under God’s headship. They have been so intimately united by God, and because of that, the bond is sacred and meant to always remain firmly bonded and rooted in God.

Dear Heavenly Father,

I thank You that Your words, “Let no man separate” are an instruction, a fiat, and the sternest of warnings. I thank You that You guard marriages and that You hate divorce. Help me to be godly, that is, more and more like You in seeking and striving and working to preserve, protect, and defend the marriages around me against all enemies. Show me where I may fall short of obeying Your command that “marriage should be honored by all.” Help me know the terror of the Lord if I am ever tempted not to honor a marriage. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Each of us can support marriage as we have the opportunity. For example, we can encourage faithfulness when we hear married friends or co-workers speculate about cheating or wonder whether “the grass is greener” on the other side of their commitment. We can also be careful not to participate in evil speaking about someone’s spouse. Instead, we can encourage consideration of that person’s needs, prayer for that person, and/or seeking godly counsel rather than gossip.