Today we will talk about what did Jesus say about polygamy. Many Christians do not know what this means. Polygamy refers to the practice of having more than one spouse simultaneously, and throughout history, various cultures have accepted or rejected it. In the Bible, we find examples of those who practiced polygamy, yet Jesus’ teachings appeared to reaffirm the original design for marriage. As we ponder this topic, let’s meditate on the intentions behind God’s plan for marriage by reading His Word and seeking His wisdom.
What Did Jesus Say About Polygamy
The Foundation of Marriage
At the heart of Jesus’ teachings about marriage is the concept that God designed marriage to be a union between one man and one woman. This idea stems from Genesis, where the creation of Adam and Eve establishes the model for marital relationships. Jesus references this foundational text when discussing marriage, emphasizing the significance of the original design.
In Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus states, “Haven’t you read that at the beginning the Creator made them male and female, and said, ‘For this reason, a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” Here, we see Jesus reiterating the importance of a singular union. The Greek word for “one” (ἓν) underscores unity and singularity in marriage.
The Hebrew word used in Genesis for “joined” (דָּבַק, davak) also reflects an inseparable bond. This foundational definition makes it clear that God’s intent was never for a man to have multiple wives. Rather, it signifies a unique relationship designed to foster unity, trust, and companionship.
Moreover, historical views on marriage reveal that ancient Israelites often practiced polygamy. Figures like Abraham, Jacob, and David had multiple wives. However, these examples often led to complications and strife within families, suggesting that while polygamy was culturally accepted in some periods, it was not aligned with God’s ideal plan for marriage.
Jesus on Morality and Divorce
Jesus also addressed the topic of divorce, which further sheds light on His views regarding marriage and, by extension, polygamy. In Matthew 19:8-9, Jesus states, “Moses permitted you to divorce your wives because your hearts were hard. But it was not this way from the beginning. I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.” Here, Jesus points to human hardness of heart as the reason for Moses allowing divorce, reaffirming that God’s ideal was for lifelong monogamous unions.
The term used by Jesus for divorce, (ἀπολύω, apolyo), highlights the intentionality behind marital separation, subtly condemning the flippant practice of dismissing one’s spouse as one could simply sell a possession. It indicates the weightiness of commitment in marriage. Engaging in polygamy could dilute that commitment, leading to further emotional and moral complexities, which is contrary to the teachings of Jesus.
Covenantal Love and Commitment
Transitioning from the physical aspect of marriage to its spiritual significance, we notice that God intended marriage to reflect His covenant love. The love that Jesus displayed is not only exclusive but also sacrificial, exemplified through selflessness and genuine commitment. The kind of love celebrated in Ephesians 5:25-27 mirrors the commitment required in marital relationships. It reads, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.”
The Greek word for “love” (ἀγάπη, agape) refers to an unconditional, benevolent love, which ought to characterize the relationships between spouses. When one is involved with multiple partners, it can be challenging to demonstrate such tailored devotion to each individual. Jesus’ teachings advocate for a union that embodies this kind of self-giving love, which is best fulfilled in a monogamous context.
Historical Views on Polygamy
When examining history, it is crucial to recognize the evolution of societal values regarding polygamy. Many ancient societies embraced polygamy largely as a status symbol, ensuring familial alliances and contributing to the expansion of property and resources. As time progressed, the moral implications of such unions grew increasingly scrutinized. Religious leaders began to emphasize the importance of fidelity, particularly in the light of Christ’s teachings.
In the early Christian church, leaders like Augustine and Tertullian argued against polygamy. They posited that the teachings of Jesus represented a radical departure from past practices, calling for a return to the ideal of monogamous marriage. The church’s stance further solidified with the establishment of canon laws in subsequent centuries, which denounced the practice universally in Christian communities.
Even within Judaism, as prophecies and messianic hopes grew, there was a shift regarding the acceptability of polygamy. Rabbinical Judaism began to prioritize monogamy, largely influenced by the morality highlighted in the scriptures that pointed toward unity, fidelity, and divine will in marriage.
Jesus’ Affirmation of Faithfulness
Ultimately, the teachings of Jesus encompass a call to faithfulness in all relationships. In Luke 16:18, He states, “Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery, and the man who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.” Jesus reinforces that the sanctity of marriage should not be taken lightly, thus casting further admonition toward polygamy, which casually expands this serious commitment.
This affirmation invites followers to uphold moral standards that reflect God’s original design. As such, Jesus advocates for pushing against societal norms that dilute the institution of marriage. His teachings call His followers to challenge contemporary understandings that deviate from the foundational truth about marital unions encouraged in the Scriptures.
The Church’s Stance on Polygamy
In light of Jesus’ teachings and the historical views on marriage and polygamy, the contemporary Christian church tends to uphold monogamy as the standard. Denominations that prioritize scriptural authority consistently advocate for relationships grounded in the biblical model of one man and one woman. This commitment is further echoed in Hebrews 13:4, which states, “Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.”
Moreover, churches engage in educating members about the gravity of marriage, promoting relationship enrichment, counseling, and addressing issues such as divorce and infidelity. There is a resilient emphasis on building effective marriages that cultivate love, nurturing family units while reflecting God’s intention for relational harmony.
The fundamental message from Jesus reiterates the sanctity of marriage, thereby encouraging individuals within the church to foster principles of companionship, loyalty, and harmony in their marital relationships. Rather than endorsing polygamy, His words promote a sacred image of monogamous partnership that mirrors the union of Christ and His church.
Final Thoughts
As we have seen, Jesus’ teachings emphasize that marriage was designed to be a sacred union between one man and one woman. The examples from Scripture demonstrate that while polygamy occurred, it was never part of God’s ideal plan. Jesus clearly affirmed the significance of commitment and love, leading us to understand that the true essence of marriage lies in faithfulness, sacrifice, and unity.
Moreover, we recognize that the implications of our choices in relationships extend beyond personal experiences, impacting families and communities. As believers, we are called to honor the covenant of marriage and reflect this ideal in our lives. By embracing the beauty of monogamous relationships, we prepare ourselves to engage in shared growth, deep connection, and a legacy that glorifies God.
Let’s carry forward the lessons from Jesus into our own relationships, cherishing the divine purpose behind marriage, reinforcing the values of love, commitment, and respect in every connection we foster. As we reflect on these teachings, may our hearts remain aligned with God’s design and find inspiration in His Word.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4