The Exception Clause refers to a specific provision found in the teachings of Jesus regarding divorce, as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. This clause has been the subject of extensive theological discussion and debate within Christian circles, particularly concerning its implications for the permissibility of divorce and remarriage.

Biblical Context

The Exception Clause is found in two passages in the Gospel of Matthew: Matthew 5:32 and Matthew 19:9. These passages are part of Jesus' teachings on marriage and divorce, where He addresses the Pharisees and His disciples.

Matthew 5:32 :
"But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, brings adultery upon her. And he who marries a divorced woman commits adultery."

Matthew 19:9 :
"And I tell you that whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman, commits adultery."

Interpretation

The Exception Clause, "except for sexual immorality," is pivotal in understanding Jesus' teaching on the conditions under which divorce is permissible. The Greek term used for "sexual immorality" is "porneia," which encompasses a range of illicit sexual behaviors. This term is distinct from "moicheia," which specifically refers to adultery. The use of "porneia" suggests a broader category of sexual misconduct that could justify divorce.

Theological Implications

1. Permissibility of Divorce: The Exception Clause indicates that divorce is permissible in cases of sexual immorality. This has been interpreted to mean that if a spouse engages in sexual relations outside the marriage covenant, the innocent party is allowed to seek a divorce without being guilty of sin.

2. Remarriage: The clause also implies that remarriage is permissible for the innocent party. Since the divorce is justified on the grounds of sexual immorality, the subsequent marriage does not constitute adultery.

3. Comparison with Other Gospels: The Gospels of Mark (Mark 10:11-12) and Luke (Luke 16:18) do not include the Exception Clause, leading to discussions about the harmonization of these accounts. Some scholars suggest that Matthew's Jewish audience, familiar with the Mosaic Law, required this clarification.

4. Historical and Cultural Context: In the Jewish context of Jesus' time, divorce was a contentious issue, with debates between different rabbinical schools, such as those of Hillel and Shammai, regarding the grounds for divorce. The Exception Clause aligns more closely with the stricter interpretation of the Shammai school, which allowed divorce only for serious transgressions like sexual immorality.

5. Pastoral Considerations: In pastoral settings, the Exception Clause is often considered when counseling individuals facing marital difficulties. It provides a framework for understanding when divorce may be a biblically sanctioned option, while also emphasizing the sanctity and permanence of the marriage covenant.

Conclusion

The Exception Clause remains a significant element in Christian teachings on marriage and divorce. It underscores the seriousness with which Jesus regarded the marriage covenant, while also acknowledging the reality of human sinfulness and the need for grace and compassion in addressing marital breakdowns.