Matthew, Session 19

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Additional Note:  The discussion on Matthew 5:31-32 (divorce) may be confusing, so here is a summary that might help sort it out.
1. Jesus attempts to clear up the misinterpretation of the rabbinic school that permitted divorce on any grounds – an interpretation of Deut. 24:1-4
2. Divorce is only acceptable on the basis of sexual infidelity
3. Therefore, if a man divorces a woman according to the school that allowed divorce on any grounds, such a man is technically (from Torah perspective) not divorced and therefore the wife is still married to him.
4. So, if the now-“divorced” wife enters into marriage with another man, both of them are technically committing adultery since the wife is still (from Torah perspective) married.
5. This evil result comes from the loose interpretation of the law.
6. Jesus uses this illustration to show how the loose interpretation of the law causes further consequences.
7.  Other than the comment about the Torah grounds for divorce, Jesus does not comment on any other issues regarding divorce.

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