Commentary on Mark 10:5

Verse Text: "But Jesus said to them, 'For your hardness of heart he wrote you this commandment.'

Introduction

The verse Mark 10:5 comes in the context of a discussion between Jesus and the Pharisees regarding the lawfulness of divorce. This passage reveals Jesus' authoritative interpretation of the Mosaic Law, pointing to the deeper issues of human sinfulness and God's original intent for marriage. In exploring this verse, we glean insights regarding the nature of the law, the condition of the human heart, and the sanctity of marriage.

Contextual Analysis

Matthew Henry notes that the Pharisees approached Jesus with a question, not genuinely seeking truth, but rather attempting to trap him. This illustrates the spiritual blindness and hardness of heart prevalent among them. The commandment they refer to is rooted in Deuteronomy 24:1-4, where Moses permitted divorce under certain conditions due to the hardness of people’s hearts.

Henry emphasizes that the law was given not to encourage divorce but to regulate human sinfulness. In Jesus’ response, we see a call to return to the original design of marriage, meant to be a lifelong covenant, reflective of God's intention.

The Hardness of Heart

Albert Barnes, in his commentary, highlights the term “hardness of heart.” This phrase encapsulates the inability or unwillingness of individuals to respond to God's commands sensitively. Hardness of heart manifests in rebellion against God's statutes and a propensity to rationalize sin. Jesus points out that it was not God's intent to provide a loophole for divorce; rather, it was an allowance made because of the people's sinful nature.

Barnes notes the personal implications of this hardness—how it leads to broken relationships, societal discord, and a diminished understanding of the divine design for marriage. Instead of pursuing God's will, individuals often pursue their desires, which leads to sin and separation.

The Purpose of Divinely Given Commands

Adam Clarke sheds light on the nature of the commandments and why they were given in the first place. He argues that laws concerning divorce were not indicative of God's perfect will but were allowances made for human shortcomings. Thus, it can be inferred that God's commandments aim to lead humanity towards righteousness, directing them away from their innate propensities to sin.

Furthermore, Clarke emphasizes the transformative purpose of the law. The commandments are meant to challenge believers to move beyond mere compliance towards an intrinsic understanding of God's character and heart. Thus, the law serves as both a mirror to show our failings and a guide beckoning us back to God's ideal.

The Divine Intent for Marriage

This verse and the subsequent discourse reveal that, despite human failures, God's design for marriage is sacred and unbroken. Matthew Henry states, "In the beginning, it was not so," indicating that from the outset, God's intent for marital unions was fidelity, love, and permanence. Jesus reminds us of the fundamental principle that should govern marriage—a relationship defined by mutual commitment and covenant love.

Henry further points out that this commandment concerning divorce was given as a concession to human failures but that the ideal remains one of unity and sanctity. This perspective encourages pastors and theologians to teach on the high view of marriage, urging the church to embrace and promote reconciliation and healing within the context of broken relationships.

Practical Applications

• Understanding God's Design: As ministers and students of the Word, it is crucial to understand and teach the divine conception of marriage as a covenantal relationship. Mark 10:5 serves as a reminder of God’s original intent and calls for holiness in this sacred bond.
• Addressing Hardness of Heart: Congregations will benefit from education about the signs of hardness of heart in themselves and others. Counseling ministries should focus on softening hearts through biblical teaching and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.
• Engaging with Divorce: Pastors can engage compassionately with individuals facing divorce, gently guiding them to the heart of God in these matters while holding to biblical truths about marriage.
• Encouraging Reconciliation: Emphasizing God's desire for restoration within marriage can enhance community efforts toward promoting healing and reconciliation.

Conclusion

Mark 10:5 serves as a profound reminder of God’s gracious calling for His people to return to His intended design, emphasizing the need for a tender heart toward His commandments. The insights provided by commentators like Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke underscore both the seriousness of sin and the restorative nature of God's Word. As we meditate on these truths, may our hearts become more attuned to His purposes, leading us toward a fuller understanding of divine love, mercy, and holiness in our lives and in the institution of marriage.