In Matthew 5:29, Jesus commanded to gouge out sinful limbs, which also includes marriage.
Jesus Christ’s teachings often challenge conventional wisdom and societal norms. One such teaching that has stirred debates and discussions for centuries is his message about dealing with sin, particularly the statement, “If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away” (Matthew 5:29, NIV). This teaching and similar declarations powerfully underscore the significance of sin and the efforts needed to evade it.
The Symbolism of Cutting Off and Separating
The phrase “gouging out” or “cutting off” body parts to avoid sin is a metaphor that has its roots in the teachings of Jesus Christ. This phrase does not mean that one should amputate body parts to avoid sin. Instead, it is a powerful metaphor, highlighting the radical action required to confront and overcome sin.
“The metaphor highlights the importance of taking sin very seriously and being willing to sacrifice to preserve one’s spiritual purity and integrity. It stresses the necessity of completely abandoning sinful behaviors and habits and instead taking decisive action to transform one’s character and way of life.”
The metaphor expresses the spiritual truth that sin is a destructive force that can lead to spiritual death. It warns us that we must take the necessary steps to avoid sin at all costs. The metaphor is not intended to be taken literally but is a powerful reminder of the need for radical action to confront and overcome sin.
This concept of cutting off or separating extends beyond physical actions, including relationships, habits, and situations that lead one away from God’s will. It emphasizes the need for discernment and the courage to make difficult decisions to preserve one’s faith and moral integrity.
Applying the Message to Family and Marriage
Regarding family and marriage, Jesus’ teaching about cutting off sin takes on added significance. Marriage is a sacred covenant before God, and the Bible speaks clearly about the sanctity and permanence of this union. However, it also recognizes the reality of human frailty and the possibility of sin entering marital relationships.
In cases where one party continuously violates their marital vows and refuses to repent, the question arises: when is it appropriate to say “enough is enough”? While divorce is a sensitive and complex issue, the Bible does guide situations involving unrepentant sin.
The Apostle Paul addresses this issue in his letters to the Corinthians. In 1 Corinthians 7:15, he states, “But if the unbeliever leaves, let it be so. The brother or sister is not bound in such circumstances; God has called us to live in peace” (NIV). This passage suggests that if an unbelieving spouse leaves the marriage because of the other’s faith or other issues, the believer is not obligated to remain in the marriage under those circumstances.
Supporting Scriptures on Divorcing an Unrepentant Spouse
While divorce is never encouraged, the Bible does acknowledge its permissibility in certain situations, particularly when there is persistent unfaithfulness or abuse. Here are some additional scriptures that provide insight into this topic:
Matthew 19:9: “I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery” (NIV). This verse suggests that sexual immorality is a valid reason for divorce.
Malachi 2:16: “For I hate divorce,” says the Lord, the God of Israel, “and him who covers his garment with wrong,” says the Lord of hosts. “So take heed to your spirit, that you do not deal treacherously” (NASB). While God expresses his dislike for divorce, this verse also acknowledges the reality of treacherous behavior within marriage.
1 Corinthians 7:10–11: “To the married, I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife” (NIV). This passage emphasizes the importance of reconciliation but acknowledges the possibility of separation.
Navigating a marriage with a spouse who consistently behaves in harmful or ungodly ways is undeniably challenging. The anger and frustration that arise from such situations are natural human reactions. Anger is sinful when it leads to unrighteous actions or harbors resentment (Ephesians 4:26–27).
14 Because both the unbelieving husband and the wife sanctify one another, your children are now holy, even though they would otherwise be unclean. 15 But if the unbeliever departs, let him depart; a brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases. But God has called us to peace. 16 How do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, O husband, whether you will save your wife?
Addressing Anger and Sinful Behavior
Firstly, it’s essential to differentiate between righteous anger and sinful anger. Righteous anger can be a response to injustice, wrongdoing, or sin. However, it becomes problematic when anger leads to bitterness, resentment, or sinful actions.
Ephesians 4:31–32 (NIV) advises, “Get rid of all bitterness, rage, and anger, brawling and slander, along with every malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
Seeking Reconciliation and Peace
The primary aim in such situations should always be reconciliation and restoration within the marriage. Separation or divorce should be considered only as a last resort after all efforts at reconciliation have been exhausted.
Jesus emphasized the importance of reconciliation in relationships in Matthew 5:23–24 (NIV): “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First, go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.”
Considering Matthew 5:29 in Context
Matthew 5:29–30 speaks metaphorically about the seriousness of sin and the need for radical action to avoid it. However, it’s essential to understand this passage in context. Jesus is using hyperbolic language to emphasize the importance of dealing decisively with sin, not advocating for literal self-mutilation.
This passage underscores the need for radical action to confront and address sin in the context of marriage and dealing with a difficult spouse. It could entail seeking professional help, establishing healthy boundaries, or making significant lifestyle changes to avoid engaging in sinful behaviors.
When to Consider Separation or Divorce
While the Bible acknowledges the possibility of divorce in cases of unfaithfulness (Matthew 19:9) and abandonment by an unbelieving spouse (1 Corinthians 7:15), it does not provide a blanket endorsement for divorce due to a spouse’s bad behavior or personality conflicts.
Instead of prioritizing punishment, the emphasis is on forgiveness, reconciliation, and seeking guidance from God to navigate challenging marital situations. Divorce should only be considered in cases of unrepentant sin that undermines the sanctity and safety of the marriage.
Conclusion
Jesus’ teachings about eliminating sin are potent reminders of how grave sin is and the importance of drastic measures to preserve one’s spiritual wholeness.
Christians need to recognize the gravity of divorce and consider its impact.
In such cases, the priority should be seeking God’s wisdom, advice, and grace to navigate these challenging situations with love, compassion, and integrity.
Navigating a marriage with a difficult spouse is undoubtedly challenging, but as Christians, the focus should always be on seeking God’s guidance, wisdom, and grace. It might require counseling, establishing boundaries, and actively striving for reconciliation.
While divorce is a severe and painful decision, it may become necessary in extreme cases involving persistent, unrepentant sin. Nevertheless, Christians should approach marital conflict with prayer, wise guidance, and a profound dedication to seeking God’s will and upholding the sacred marriage covenant.
