Restoring God’s Plan for the Family (7). Is it Lawful to Divorce?
Divorce is a sensitive topic and a painful reality in today’s society. While the world has welcomed the concept of divorce, the Bible says, “What God has joined together, let no one separate.” How then, can we stand for the will of God?
As part of our series entitled Restoring God’s Plan for the Family, Rev. Jeremiah Cheung speaks about Jesus’ words and example as He answers the question, ‘Is it lawful to divorce?’
by Rev. Jeremiah Cheung
Discussion Questions
1. The Pharisees asked Jesus, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any and every reason?” Why is this question a test (a trick question)? Paul said, “Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.” What does this mean? When most of the world believes what is contrary to the truth, do you think you’d dare stand for the truth? Why do you say so?
2. How did Jesus handle the Pharisees’ attempt to test him? (Review how Jesus handled Satan’s temptation). Paul said we must put on the full armor of God. What item did Paul use to describe God’s Word? How deeply do you know God’s Word?
3. In Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus quoted 3 verses from the Old Testament to explain that divorce is not God’s will. In verse 4: “Haven’t you read that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female?’” What did Jesus mean by quoting this verse?
4. In Matthew 19:5, we read “For this reason, a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” This verse may be called God’s blueprint for marriage. This Bible verse shows us 3 principles for marriage. How many do you understand? Which ones have you followed or obeyed?
5. In Matthew 19:6, we read “So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” This Bible verse tells us two more reasons why divorce is not God’s will; what are they? The Book of Malachi says God hates divorce. Do you understand the reason why God hates divorce?