What did Jesus ask the Pharisees in Mark 10:3 about Moses' commandment? Setting the Scene - Jesus has crossed into Judea beyond the Jordan. - The Pharisees approach, testing Him on the sensitive issue of divorce (Mark 10:2). - Their intent is not honest inquiry but to trap Him in a theological debate. Jesus’ Direct Question (Mark 10:3) “What did Moses command you?” Meaning and Emphasis - Jesus immediately shifts the discussion from human opinion to revealed Scripture. - By asking about Moses’ command, He underscores the divine authority vested in the Mosaic Law (cf. Exodus 24:4; John 5:45-47). - The question exposes whether the Pharisees truly understand and submit to God’s Word or merely use it to justify self-serving traditions (Mark 7:6-13). Scriptural Connections - Deuteronomy 24:1—Moses permitted a certificate of divorce “because he has found some indecency in her.” - Genesis 2:24—God’s original design: “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” - Matthew 19:7-8—Parallel account where Jesus clarifies that Moses allowed divorce “because of the hardness of your hearts.” - Malachi 2:16—The Lord declares, “I hate divorce,” revealing His unchanging heart for covenant faithfulness. Takeaway for Today - Scripture—not contemporary culture or personal convenience—must govern our understanding of marriage. - Jesus’ question calls every believer to return to the clear, literal commands of God’s Word. - When we start with “What did Moses command?” we allow God’s revealed truth to correct, instruct, and guide our relationships (2 Timothy 3:16-17). |
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