King James Version
What Does Matthew 19:4 Mean?
“And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,”
Context
2
And great multitudes followed him; and he healed them there.
3
The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?
4
And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,
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?
6
Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **Have ye not read . . .?**—The answer to the question is found not in the words of a code of laws, but in the original facts of creation. That represented the idea of man and woman as created for a permanent relationship to each other, not as left to unite and separate as appetite or caprice might prompt.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Matthew 19:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Matthew 19:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge