New Testament

Matthew 19:7

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, the Pharisees challenge Jesus by referring to the law of Moses, which allowed a man to divorce his wife by giving her a certificate of divorce.

Author
Matthew the apostle
Written
Around AD 60-70
Genre
Gospel
Original Audience
Jewish Christians
CBTClear Bible Translation

They pressed him, "Then why did Moses command that a man give his wife a certificate of divorce and send her away?"

KJVKing James Version

They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away?

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, the Pharisees challenge Jesus by referring to the law of Moses, which allowed a man to divorce his wife by giving her a certificate of divorce. They are questioning why Moses permitted this practice if Jesus is teaching about the sanctity of marriage. The mention of a 'certificate of divorce' indicates that there were legal procedures in place for divorce, but it also highlights the tension between the law and the ideal of marriage as a lifelong commitment. Jesus later responds by emphasizing that divorce was not part of God's original design for marriage, suggesting that the allowance for divorce was a concession to human hardness of heart. This exchange reveals the complexities of marital relationships and the importance of understanding the heart behind the law.

Key themes

Related topics

marriage, commitment, wisdom

How to apply Matthew 19:7 to your life

This verse encourages us to reflect on the seriousness of marriage and the implications of divorce. It reminds us to approach relationships with commitment and love, seeking to resolve conflicts rather than resorting to separation. Understanding the heart of God's intentions for marriage can guide us in our own relationships.

Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Matthew 19:7 mean?

Matthew 19:7 captures a moment where the Pharisees question Jesus about Moses' allowance for divorce. They are trying to understand why Moses permitted divorce if Jesus teaches about the sanctity of marriage.

What is the significance of the certificate of divorce in Matthew 19:7?

The certificate of divorce mentioned in Matthew 19:7 indicates that there were legal procedures for divorce in Moses' law. It highlights the tension between the legal allowance for divorce and the ideal of marriage as a lifelong commitment.

Why did Moses allow divorce according to Matthew 19:7?

In Matthew 19:7, the Pharisees refer to Moses' command to give a certificate of divorce, which was a concession to human hardness of heart rather than God's original design for marriage.

How does Matthew 19:7 relate to modern relationships?

Matthew 19:7 encourages reflection on the seriousness of marriage today, reminding individuals to approach relationships with commitment and to seek resolution rather than separation.

The Book of Matthew
Book Summary

The Book of Matthew

Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ

The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

Premium

Unlock the full Matthew summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Matthew — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 28 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Matthew summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.