What does "commits adultery" in Mark 10:11 imply about marital faithfulness? Setting the Verse in Context Jesus’ discussion with the Pharisees (Mark 10:2-12) centers on divorce. He cites Genesis 2:24 to affirm that marriage is a God-made, one-flesh covenant, not a human contract that can be dissolved at will. Verse 11 is Jesus’ blunt conclusion to His disciples after the public exchange. Key Text: Mark 10:11 “So He told them, ‘Whoever divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her.’” The Meaning of “Commits Adultery” Present tense verb—describes an ongoing state, not a one-time lapse. The act of divorcing and remarrying places the person in continuous violation of the seventh commandment (“You shall not commit adultery,” Exodus 20:14). Jesus assumes the first marriage bond still exists in God’s sight; therefore, entering a new union is adulterous. Faithfulness is measured by covenant loyalty, not by civil paperwork. Implications for Marital Faithfulness • Marriage is permanent: God joins; humans are not to separate (Mark 10:9). • Fidelity extends beyond sexual exclusivity to steadfast commitment to one’s spouse for life. • Breaking the covenant through unjustified divorce equals betrayal, even if a new marriage appears legitimate before society. • The innocent spouse is “sinned against” (“against her”), showing that adultery wounds both the betrayed partner and the covenant itself. Supporting Scriptures • Genesis 2:24—one flesh, lifelong union. • Malachi 2:14-16—“the wife of your covenant… do not break faith.” • Matthew 5:32; 19:9—parallel teaching, noting sexual immorality as the sole stated ground for permissible divorce. • Romans 7:2-3—remarriage while the first spouse lives equals adultery. • 1 Corinthians 7:10-11—commands spouses not to separate; if they do, they must remain unmarried or be reconciled. Practical Takeaways • Enter marriage with solemn reverence; God is the witness and joiner. • Guard the covenant daily—spiritually, emotionally, physically—so that divorce never becomes an option. • If conflict arises, pursue reconciliation, counsel, and repentance rather than escape. • Remember that marital faithfulness showcases Christ’s unwavering covenant love for His people (Ephesians 5:25-32). |
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