New Testament
Mark 10:2
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Some Pharisees approached him with a question designed to trap him. "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?" they asked.
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And the Pharisees came to him, and asked him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife? tempting him.
What Mark 10:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the Pharisees, a group of religious leaders, approached Jesus with a question about divorce. Their intention was not to seek genuine guidance but to trap him into saying something that could be used against him. They asked if it was lawful for a man to divorce his wife, which was a contentious issue at the time. The question reflects the differing interpretations of the law regarding marriage and divorce. By framing it this way, they hoped to catch Jesus in a dilemma, as any answer could alienate him from either the people or the authorities. This encounter sets the stage for a deeper discussion about the sanctity of marriage and the intentions behind God's laws. Jesus' response would later emphasize the importance of commitment in marriage and the seriousness of divorce, highlighting that it was not part of God's original design for relationships.
How to apply Mark 10:2 to your life
This verse reminds us to approach difficult questions with sincerity rather than a desire to trap others. In our discussions about sensitive topics like marriage and divorce, we should seek understanding and compassion, reflecting the heart of Jesus in our interactions with others.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 10:2 mean?
Mark 10:2 describes an encounter where the Pharisees question Jesus about the legality of divorce. Their aim was to trap him into making a controversial statement that could be used against him, highlighting the tension between differing interpretations of the law.
What is the significance of the Pharisees' question in Mark 10:2?
The Pharisees' question about divorce in Mark 10:2 reflects the cultural and religious debates of the time regarding marriage. It serves as a setup for Jesus to clarify his teachings on the sanctity of marriage and the seriousness of divorce.
What does the phrase 'tempting him' mean in Mark 10:2?
The phrase 'tempting him' in Mark 10:2 indicates that the Pharisees were trying to trick Jesus into saying something that could be used against him. Their question was not sincere; they sought to challenge his authority and teachings.
How does Mark 10:2 relate to discussions about marriage today?
Mark 10:2 highlights the importance of sincere dialogue about marriage and divorce. It encourages us to approach sensitive topics with compassion and understanding, rather than seeking to entrap or judge others.
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