This episode is in honor and memory of Mica Francis. #JusticeForMica

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In this deeply engaging episode of the Destiny Awaits Podcast, Andrea and Michael John tackle the often controversial topics of marriage, divorce, and covenant through the lens of scripture. Starting with the Sermon on the Mount, they explore Jesus’ teachings on divorce, contextualizing them with cultural and historical insights. We discuss key biblical passages, including Genesis, Deuteronomy, Malachi, and the New Testament, to unpack the significance of marriage as a covenant and what breaking it entails.

Andrea shares her personal story of navigating an abusive relationship and the spiritual revelations that gave her peace and clarity about divorce. Mike shares a time where they were condemned to hell for being remarried. They also discuss the challenges of interpreting scripture in modern contexts, the power dynamics in biblical marriages, and how love, honor, and mutual submission reflect God's covenant with humanity.

Listeners will gain fresh perspectives on covenant loyalty, the complexities of divorce, and how to apply biblical truths to modern-day relationships.

Episode Highlights

1. ​ Introduction

• ​ Exploring the topic of divorce as discussed by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount.
• ​ What is marriage? Genesis 1-2
• ​ What is divorce? Deuteronomy 4:1-4
• ​ Marriage as a covenant reflecting God’s relationship with humanity. Ephesians 4

1. ​ Scriptural Foundation & Historical Context

o Matthew 5:31-32 and Matthew 19: Jesus' teaching on divorce.

o Historical context of divorce in Deuteronomy and Jewish cultural debates.

o The three Jewish perspectives on "indecent matter" in Deuteronomy:

 Shammai: Conservative view—divorce only for sexual immorality.

 Hillel: Liberal view—any dissatisfaction could justify divorce.

 Akiba: Aesthetic dissatisfaction (finding a more attractive partner).

o Role of women in ancient society: rights, value, and survival challenges post-divorce.

1. ​ Personal Reflection

• ​ Andrea shares her journey through abuse and understanding divorce as covenant breaking.
• ​ Mike shares a story about receiving condemnation for being remarried
• ​ Abuse, abandonment, and adultery as violations of the marriage covenant.

1. ​ Theological Context

• ​ Paul’s writings in 1 Corinthians 7: marriage, divorce, and the cultural crisis of 70 AD.
• ​ Marriage as a reflection of Christ’s love for the church (Ephesians 5).
• ​ Addressing legalism and the heart of the matter in relationships.

1. ​ Practical Takeaways

• ​ Importance of understanding cultural and historical context in interpreting scripture.
• ​ Encouragement for those navigating divorce, emphasizing God’s love, grace, and forgiveness

Key Scriptures Referenced

• ​ Matthew 5:31-32
• ​ Matthew 19:1-12
• ​ Deuteronomy 24:1-4
• ​ Ephesians 5
• ​ 1 Corinthians 7
• ​ Jeremiah 3:8-10

Extrabiblical Resources Mentioned

• ​ Mishnah, specifically Gitten 9:10
• ​ Writings of Josephus.

o Antiquities 15.259

o Life of Flavius Josephus

Call to Action

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Links

• ​ In His Image Book: https://amzn.to/3BZy3ob
• ​ The Journey: An Interactive Bible Study: https://amzn.to/40a99u2
• ​ Facebook Page: @journeywithandreajohn
• ​ Instagram: @thejourneywithandrea

• Disclaimer: all accounts in this episode are alleged and from our personal point of view. It is our story, from our perspective.