Matthew 19:1-12 - Homilies By J.a. Macdonald

The ethics of marriage.

Note here a contrast: multitudes following Christ for healing, Pharisees pursuing him for mischief. Satan will be among the sons of God. Jesus turns the contradiction of sinners into instructions for his disciples. Let us consider—

I. THE PHARISEE 'S QUESTION RELATING TO CAPRICIOUS DIVORCE .

1 . The occasion .

2 . The reply .

II. THEIR CITATION OF THE MOSAIC CONCESSION OF DIVORCEMENT .

1 . The con cession .

2 . Its repeal .

III. THE QUESTION OF THE DISCIPLES ON CELIBACY .

1 . They viewed it in the light of selfishness . "If the case of a man is so," etc. (verse 10). God said, "It is not good for man to be alone," i . e . unmarried; the disciples, blinded by the prejudices of their race, said, "It is not good to marry."

2 . Jesus put it in its true light .