Is Divorce Permissible?

 N. T. #226 “Is Divorce Permissible?”

Jan. 18, 2024

Matthew 19-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Our heat is back on  Thank You Jesus! I know today’s lesson is so controversial, but please read all of it  Our purpose in life is to love God, obey His Word, and bring Him glory in our life. 

Marriage has been established between one man and one woman since the creation of both. As a result, offspring would come. Marriage is a covenant between a man and a woman, a bond of love and faithfulness until death part them, as well as a covenant with God for them to do so.

Humans have changed the order and rebelled against it down through the ages. Men with men and women with women is an abomination to God. When one person gets tired of their spouse or another person appeals to them more, then they want out of the marriage. This is not to happen or be. Marriage is forever until one dies.

The Pharisees were trying to set a trap for Jesus when they asked Him, is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause? (verse 3)

Jesus pointed out that divorce was not an intention of God nor for the marriage to fail or end. The married couple was to be joined together, not separated or divided. No one or nothing was to come between them.(verse 6)

Are you in agreement with all of this?

LET IT GROW 

So why did Moses allow divorce? It was due to the hardness of the heart. When fornication, adultery, or abandonment happened, Jesus allowed divorce. 

In verse 9, fornication means harlotry (including adultery or incest); idolatry.

This is not limited to premarital sex only, but includes all types of sexual sin: adultery, homosexuality, bestiality, etc. (Falwell)

Indecency, shameful exposure, improper behavior were terms used by the Pharisees interpreting Deuteronomy 24:1. Uncleanness is nudity, disgrace, blemish, shame.

The thing is, Moses permitted divorce, not commanded it. It is best for us to remain married for life, not split up and remarry.

Who has no family that hasn’t been mated by divorce? It can be painful. Especially painful for children involved.

I know it is hard to maintain a happy marriage. We have been working at it for 51 years. But it is possible to do with Jesus’ help.

LET IT GO

I pray we let go of selfish ways and love our spouse as ourself, Lord.

Help us obey Your Word.

Keep us in your will.

Bless faithful marriages today.

Are We Meek?

 N.T. #33 "Are We Meek?"

March 23, 2023

Matthew 5-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

One summer, we took all of our grandchildren to an annual rodeo. I have seen strong and fast horses broken of their self-will. People ride and rule them, managing that strength under the rider's control. The horses can do amazing things. So it is with believers who submit their will to God's will.

As the disciples listened to Jesus preach the Sermon on the Mount, they heard how to be happy realize their spiritual poverty (poor). The kingdom of God is a gracious gift to those who sense their own poverty of spirit. Mourning over sin produces repentance leading to salvation without regret. (2 Cor. 7:10)

3. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. (verse 5)

What does meek mean? Meek means mild; humble; bring low; humiliate.

Meekness is not weakness, but the opposite of being out of control. It is supreme self-control empowered by the Spirit. (Galatians 5:23)

Are we a humble, quiet, gentle, and forgiving person? Is our behavior and words under the control of Jesus?

When we submit our will to God's will, then we are blessed (happy). Are you surrendering? What has God done through you lately that only He could do?

LET IT GROW

What is the result of our being humble? First, we will inherit heaven. The faithful will share in the kingdom of God on the earth. During the Millennial reign of Christ, we will join those believers here for a thousand years of Christ Jesus on the throne. What a time!

We are heirs of God and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ. Keep in mind that only the Spirit of God can break us and make us meek. We can't be humble on our own; if we could, then we would be proud of ourself. Meekness is the fruit of the Spirit. 

[Resources: The MacArthur Bible Commentary; The Preacher's Outline and Sermon Bible]

LET IT GO

Fill us with meekness today, Jesus. 

We surrender to Your will, not our will.

Please bless us with Your peace today.

Glory to the God of heaven and earth.