Understanding Matthew 19:5
Bible Verse: Matthew 19:5 - "And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh."
Summary of Meaning
This verse captures the essence of the divine institution of marriage, highlighting the profound connection that occurs when two individuals join in matrimony. It references the fundamental shift in priorities as a man leaves his parents to unite with his wife, creating a new family unit that is intended to be lasting and sacred.
Commentary Insights
- Matthew Henry: Emphasizes the importance of leaving one's parents and the spiritual and emotional joining that constitutes becoming "one flesh." Henry interprets this as an affirmation of marital fidelity, detailing how it symbolizes a bond that transcends mere physical union.
- Albert Barnes: Points out that the phrase "Leave father and mother" indicates a responsibility to prioritize the spouse over parental ties. Barnes argues that this leaving is essential for the establishment of the marital relationship and its integrity.
- Adam Clarke: Analyzes the concept of "one flesh," connecting it to Genesis 2:24, and elaborates on how this unity reflects not only physical intimacy but also emotional and spiritual unity, creating a foundation for a strong marital relationship.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 19:5 connects well with several other Bible verses that support its themes of marriage, unity, and relationship priority:
- Genesis 2:24: "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh." This verse is the original source and echoes the same principles of marital union.
- Ephesians 5:31: "For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh." Paul reaffirms the importance of this teaching in his epistle.
- 1 Corinthians 6:16: "What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh." This verse illustrates the weight of marital unity, underscoring the significance of "one flesh."
- Mark 10:7-8: "For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; and they twain shall be one flesh." This passage parallels Matthew's account, highlighting the same divine principle.
- Colossians 3:18-19: "Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them." This encourages the harmonious relationship mandated in marriage.
- Proverbs 18:22: "Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favor of the Lord." A reminder of the blessing found within the institution of marriage.
- Hebrews 13:4: "Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge." This reinforces the sanctity of marriage as a sacred bond recognized by God.
Thematic Connections
Matthew 19:5 is a significant verse in that it establishes key principles concerning marriage as ordained by God. Below are themes to consider when analyzing this verse:
- Leaving and Cleaving: The transformative process of leaving one’s origins to begin a new life with a spouse.
- Unity: The spiritual, emotional, and physical aspects of the oneness in a marital covenant.
- Divine Purpose: Understanding marriage as a part of God’s divine design for community and partnership.
Cross-Referencing Techniques
When studying cross-references within the Bible, one can utilize several tools for deeper understanding:
- Bible Concordance: Use a concordance to find similar phrases and themes throughout Scripture that relate to marriage.
- Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Benefits greatly from a structured guide to see parallel teachings across various books.
- Cross-Referencing Bible Study: Engage in a Bible study that focuses on interconnecting verses that explore analogous themes.
SEO Insights
Understanding Matthew 19:5 can be significantly enhanced through the process of cross-referencing. Using tools for Bible cross-referencing enables deeper study, allowing readers to explore connections between verses, identify shared themes, and uncover insights that enrich their spiritual understanding. For instance, using a Bible chain reference can provide a structured way to trace the theme of marriage throughout the Bible, enhancing your study experience greatly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Matthew 19:5 serves as a vital scripture in the understanding of marriage from a biblical perspective. Through the exploration of commentaries, thematic connections, and the practice of cross-referencing, readers can gain a richer comprehension of what it means to be united in marriage according to biblical principles.
