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Matthew 5:27-32, Concerning Adultery and Divorce

Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today

I say to you that anyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of unchastity, causes her to commit adultery; and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.
— Matthew 5:32

NL Daily Devotion for Wednesday, January 30, 2019

by Rev. Stefanie Fauth, Clergy Stuff

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Content Warning: domestic abuse

Many have used these texts as a reason to stay in a marriage that is unsafe.

Jesus is very clear - divorce is not good, but when we get to that point, the relationship has already suffered in a way Jesus has spoken against.

Jesus wants relationships to work out - but I am confident that there is no justification for spousal abuse.

If a spouse is hurting their spouse - even if it’s “only” verbal or emotional and not physical - they have broken the covenant of marriage.

You do not need to stay in a marriage in which you are being harmed just because Jesus spoke against divorce.

Jesus wants you to be in a loving relationship in which you are safe and cared for.

If you are wondering if you are in a relationship that isn’t safe, please find help.

You are not alone.

You are loved and worthy.

https://www.thehotline.org/blog/get-help-today/


Narrative Lectionary Daily Reading:

Concerning Adultery

 ‘You have heard that it was said, “You shall not commit adultery.” But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away; it is better for you to lose one of your members than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away; it is better for you to lose one of your members than for your whole body to go into hell.

Concerning Divorce

 ‘It was also said, “Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.” But I say to you that anyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of unchastity, causes her to commit adultery; and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.

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