Luke 16:18 – “Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery, and the man who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesus addresses the issue of divorce and remarriage, emphasizing God’s original design for marriage as a lifelong covenant. Divorce had become a common and, in many cases, casual practice during Jesus’ time, often driven by selfish desires or convenience. Jesus condemns this lax attitude toward marriage, pointing out that when someone divorces their spouse without valid cause and remarries, it amounts to adultery.
His teaching here reinforces the seriousness of the marriage covenant. In God’s eyes, marriage isn’t just a legal agreement—it’s a sacred bond meant to reflect His faithfulness. Breaking that bond for illegitimate reasons dishonors God’s design and causes harm to individuals, families, and society.
Historical Context
During the time of Jesus, Jewish men could easily divorce their wives by giving them a certificate of divorce (Deuteronomy 24:1-4). The Pharisees and other religious leaders debated what constituted a valid reason for divorce. Some believed that a man could divorce his wife for any reason, even for something as trivial as burning a meal. Others held a stricter view, limiting divorce to cases of adultery or serious offenses.
This leniency toward divorce reflected a misunderstanding of God’s intentions for marriage. Jesus consistently pointed people back to God’s original design in Genesis 2:24, where man and woman become “one flesh.” In Matthew 19:8-9, Jesus explains that Moses permitted divorce because of the hardness of human hearts, but this was never God’s ideal.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights God’s view of marriage as a covenant, not a contract that can be easily broken. A covenant is a sacred promise, meant to reflect the unbreakable relationship between God and His people. When people treat marriage casually or selfishly, they fail to reflect God’s faithfulness.
Theologically, this teaching also points to the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance. Jesus isn’t saying that divorce is an unforgivable sin, but He is showing that it’s a serious matter that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Those who have divorced or remarried in a way that contradicts God’s design are called to seek forgiveness and align their lives with God’s will.
Literary Analysis
Jesus’ statement is direct and uncompromising, using clear and simple language to make His point. The repetition of the word “adultery” underscores the seriousness of breaking the marriage covenant. By framing the issue in such strong terms, Jesus challenges the casual attitudes toward divorce that were prevalent at the time.
The verse also fits within the broader context of Luke 16, where Jesus addresses issues of faithfulness, stewardship, and obedience to God’s commands. His teaching on divorce serves as a real-life example of how people can be unfaithful not only in financial matters but also in their most important relationships.
Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 19:4-6 – “Haven’t you read… that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
- Malachi 2:16 – “The man who hates and divorces his wife,” says the Lord, “does violence to the one he should protect.”
- 1 Corinthians 7:10-11 – “To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife.”
These passages emphasize God’s original intent for marriage, the consequences of divorce, and the call for reconciliation when possible.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christians, this verse is a reminder that marriage is a sacred commitment that should be taken seriously. While the culture around us may treat divorce as a simple solution to marital problems, God calls believers to view marriage through the lens of His covenant love. Marriage requires faithfulness, forgiveness, and sacrificial love.
However, this verse doesn’t mean that people trapped in abusive or dangerous marriages must stay in harmful situations. Scripture acknowledges legitimate grounds for divorce, such as sexual immorality (Matthew 19:9) and situations where an unbelieving spouse leaves (1 Corinthians 7:15). Christians should seek wisdom, counsel, and prayer in navigating difficult situations.
This verse also offers hope for those who have experienced divorce or remarriage outside of God’s design. God’s grace is available to those who repent and seek His forgiveness. Healing, restoration, and new beginnings are possible through Jesus Christ.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in His desire to protect and preserve the covenant of marriage. He designed marriage to be a source of joy, companionship, and stability. His commands about marriage aren’t meant to be restrictive—they are meant to help people experience the blessings of a healthy, God-honoring relationship.
God’s love is also evident in His grace toward those who have experienced the pain of divorce. He understands the brokenness of the human heart and offers forgiveness and healing to those who turn to Him. His love doesn’t leave us stuck in our past mistakes but offers a path forward through His mercy and guidance.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the perfect example of covenant love. Just as He calls people to be faithful in marriage, He demonstrates faithfulness through His relationship with the church. In Ephesians 5:25-27, Paul explains that Jesus’ love for the church is the model for how husbands should love their wives. Jesus gave Himself sacrificially to redeem and purify His bride, the church, showing what true, lasting commitment looks like.
Through Jesus, believers can find forgiveness for past failures in marriage and the strength to live faithfully in their current relationships. His death and resurrection provide the power to restore broken relationships and offer hope for a future aligned with God’s plan.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do I view marriage in light of God’s design as a lifelong covenant?
- Am I investing in my marriage with the same faithfulness and commitment that God demonstrates toward me?
- If I’ve experienced divorce, have I sought God’s forgiveness and healing?
- How can I support others who may be struggling in their marriages, offering them encouragement and biblical wisdom?
- What does Jesus’ example of sacrificial love teach me about how I should treat my spouse or future spouse?
This verse is a powerful reminder of the seriousness of marriage and the importance of faithfulness. By following God’s design and seeking His help in our relationships, we can experience the blessings of covenant love and reflect His faithfulness to the world.