Jesus’ high view of marriage was very different from the prevailing ideas of the time, where divorce had become common.

Bishop Ryle writes about the “absurd and frivolous causes” for which the Jews allowed divorce, citing rabbinical texts of the day: “If the wife cooks her husband’s food poorly… she is to be put away.”

How does Jesus view this? He makes it clear that remarriage after a divorce would be adultery (10:11-12), because even if the relationship is ended in the eyes of the law, it has not ended in the eyes of God.

Are there any circumstances in which God may separate those He has joined together? Jesus recognised one ground for divorce: “except for sexual immorality” (Mat. 5:32; 19:9).

Why would this be? Under Old Testament law, you would be stoned for marital unfaithfulness. Your spouse would become a widow or widower and would be free to remarry.

Remember the woman caught in adultery in John 8:5: the Pharisees said, “Moses commanded us to stone such women.” But Jesus said the person without sin should throw the first stone. They all walked away. Only Jesus was left, and He brings mercy where the law brought condemnation.

Unfaithfulness tears apart what God has joined together. But even here, there can be forgiveness and reconciliation. Unfaithfulness can end a marriage. But it doesn’t have to.

If you are married today, thank God for this special gift. If you find your marriage under strain, remember that God joined you together. He is with you in this. His grace is sufficient and His purpose is good.

Where might these words bring you encouragement over a past or current relationship?