19.3 It’s the last phrase which is the real question: which reasons are lawful?
19.6 Jesus takes them back from the detailed argument, to the greater principle.
19.9 Here is his direct answer to their question. If we wonder how strict he means it, look at the disciples’ reaction!
The MESSAGE: ‘I'm holding you to the original plan, and holding you liable for adultery if you divorce your faithful wife and then marry someone else. I make an exception in cases where the spouse has committed adultery." Jesus' disciples objected, "If those are the terms of marriage, we're stuck. Why get married?" But Jesus said, "Not everyone is mature enough to live a married life. It requires a certain aptitude and grace. Marriage isn't for everyone.’
19.12 Jesus is agreeing with his disciples: for some, it is better not to marry.
19.13 The disciples seem like over-protective receptionists!
19.14 See 18.2-5, and 18.10.
19.17 Jesus is making the young man aware that he has seen something of God in Jesus. Then, as a challenge, he gives the standard Jewish doctrine.
19.19 Why does Jesus single out these? Mainly the latter ones about other people.
19.20 Wow! Who today could say that with a straight face?
19.22 We presume that he didn’t do it; but we don’t know.
19.24 Traditionally this is interpreted as a figure of speech; but again the disciples’ reaction shows us the cultural understanding of that time, that he probably meant exactly what he said.
19.30 This is not total confusion, or deliberate reversal of justice; but simply a quite different set of values and criteria.
I love Tom’s insight that, by calling him to give away his wealth, Jesus was challenging him with the tougher early Commandments. Lord, what are the lead weights holding me back from following you completely and utterly?
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