Biblical Answer

What does "sexual immorality" mean in Matthew 19?

Sexual immorality in Matthew 19 refers to a broad category of sexual sins that are considered illicit and outside of God's design for human relationships. According to the biblical text, Jesus refers to sexual immorality as a prohibition against remarriage, specifically in the context of divorce and remarriage (Matthew 19:3, 9). This term is closely related to the concept of idolatry and unfaithfulness to God, drawing on Old Testament metaphors that associate sexual immorality with spiritual unfaithfulness (Matthew 19:3-12).

The term "sexual immorality" in Matthew 19 is understood to include a range of behaviors that are considered outside of God's design for human relationships, including pre-marital unchastity, incest, and post-marital immorality. In the biblical text, Jesus is not specifically addressing homosexual activity, but rather the general category of sexual immorality that is understood to be outside of God's design for human relationships. This understanding is rooted in the broader biblical narrative, which consistently portrays sexual immorality as a sin that must be repented of, forsaken, and forgiven.

In the context of Matthew 19, Jesus is not addressing the specific issue of homosexual activity, but rather the broader category of sexual immorality that is understood to be outside of God's design for human relationships. The biblical text consistently portrays sexual immorality as a sin that must be repented of, forsaken, and forgiven, and this understanding is rooted in the broader biblical narrative. Therefore, when considering the meaning of "sexual immorality" in Matthew 19, it is essential to understand the broader biblical context and the consistent portrayal of sexual immorality as a sin that must be repented of and forgiven.