Matthew 19:6 … No longer two, but ONE (12/06/16)
“So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, let no man separate.” ~ Jesus (Matthew 19:6)
Please note first and foremost that this verse does not support traditional marital fidelity in the way many assume. For not only was polygamy still socially acceptable in Jesus’ day (see 1 Corinthians 7:32-35), but this verse and its surrounding passage were actually talking about when it was acceptable to divorce, not what made for an acceptable marital partnership (see Matthew 19:3-9).
In addition, please note that Jesus’ views on sexual union were similarly staunch (see Matthew 19:12). As such, this verse speaks to something far deeper than mere marital fidelity or sexual monogamy …
Indeed, as with most of his other admonitions in the Gospels, here Jesus is encouraging us to deal with each other in the most intimate way possible; to cherish our friends as Soulmates – to honor strangers as Friends – and to treat all enemies as Family. Indeed, on a far deeper level, Jesus is reminding us here that we “become One” during every encounter; “One in the flesh” with every handshake & every embrace, “One in the mind” with every discussion heard or every conversation engaged, and “One in the Soul” with every transgression forgiven and every act of willing self-sacrifice provided.
Amen … Let it be so.
;