How does Romans 7:2 connect with Jesus' teachings on marriage in Matthew 19:6? Romans 7:2 — The Legal Bond of Marriage “For a married woman is bound by law to her husband while he is alive, but if her husband dies, she is released from the law of marriage.” • Marriage establishes a binding covenant recognized by God and human legal structures. • The bond lasts “while he is alive,” underscoring a lifelong commitment. • Release comes only through death, not human preference or convenience. Matthew 19:6 — The Spiritual Bond God Ordains “So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.” • Jesus reaches back to Genesis 2:24, affirming that God Himself joins husband and wife. • “Let man not separate” forbids humans from dissolving what God unites. • Marriage is more than a contract; it is a divine work creating “one flesh.” How the Two Passages Interlock 1. Same Duration: • Romans 7:2 ties the covenant to earthly life; Matthew 19:6 forbids human severance. Both declare marriage permanent until death. 2. Same Authority: • Paul emphasizes the binding “law”; Jesus emphasizes God’s act of joining. Law and divine action point to a single Author—God—whose decree outranks human will. 3. Same Protection: • Both texts safeguard the marriage bond from casual dissolution, shielding families and reflecting God’s faithfulness. Supporting Verses that Reinforce the Link • Genesis 2:24—“a man shall leave… and be united… they shall become one flesh.” • Malachi 2:16—“I hate divorce,” says the LORD. • Mark 10:9—parallel to Matthew 19:6, repeating Jesus’ prohibition. • 1 Corinthians 7:39—“A wife is bound to her husband as long as he lives.” • Ephesians 5:31–32—marriage mirrors Christ and the church, underscoring permanence. Key Takeaways for Believers Today • Marriage is a lifelong covenant; death alone ends it. • No human court or individual desire can override God’s joining. • Honoring marriage honors God’s character—faithful, covenant-keeping, unchanging. Living It Out • Approach marriage as a sacred, unbreakable promise. • Seek reconciliation and biblical counsel when difficulties arise, rather than pursuing separation. • Point the watching world to Christ by displaying steadfast love and covenant fidelity within marriage. |
    |