The BEMA Podcast

442: Talmudic Matthew — Marriage

Mar 20, 2025
Elle Grover Fricks, a guest speaker specializing in the contextual analysis of Jesus's teachings, joins Marty Solomon and Brent Billings for a deep dive into marriage and divorce in historical context. They unpack the nuances of biblical divorce, contrasting ancient Jewish and Roman customs. The conversation touches on how societal power dynamics influenced these teachings and humorously examines the absurdity within Talmudic divorce laws. They also discuss the importance of understanding marriage's complexities in a contemporary setting while maintaining a focus on community and safety.
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ADVICE

Approach Divorce with Sensitivity

  • Approach discussions about divorce with sensitivity, acknowledging its complexity.
  • Recognize that there are no easy answers to these intricate situations involving suffering.
INSIGHT

Biblical Ambiguity on Divorce

  • The term "porneia" in Matthew 5:32 is broad, creating ambiguity around permissible divorce.
  • Deuteronomy 24 and Malachi 2 offer seemingly conflicting views on divorce, adding to the complexity.
ANECDOTE

Divorce and Remarriage in the Bible

  • King David remarries Michal after she marries another man, seemingly contradicting Mosaic law.
  • Moses sends his wife Tsipora away and possibly remarries, raising questions about divorce and polygamy.
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