Matthew 19:1-12: What God Has Joined Together

As Jesus draws closer to Jerusalem, Pharisees ask Jesus to give His opinion in an ongoing debate concerning lawful reasons for divorce. Although their question comes from ill intent, Jesus sees through their test. He points them back to God’s institution of marriage. God designed marriage as the lifelong union of one man and one woman. Although the hardness of sinful hearts may lead to divorce, God’s intention is that marriage last until death. When the disciples question Jesus further, He upholds the value of celibacy for those who have received this divine gift. 

Rev. Joel Heckmann, admissions officer for Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Matthew 19:1-12. 

To learn more about Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, visit csl.edu.

“The Reign of Heaven Stands Near” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies the Gospel according to St. Matthew. The first evangelist proclaims that God has fulfilled His Old Testament promises by sending Jesus to bring the reign of the heavens among us. As the Son of David, Jesus is the gracious King we need, and as the Son of Abraham, Jesus is the blessing to all the families of the earth. 

Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Pastor Appel serves at Faith Lutheran Church in Godfrey, IL. Learn more at flcgodfrey.org. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org