Becoming Like Him (Part 1) | Matthew 5:31-37

In this episode of Learn the Word Radio, Pastor Doug McLean continues his exposition of Matthew 5:31-37, focusing on Jesus' teaching about divorce and oaths within the Sermon on the Mount. He emphasizes that Jesus raises the standard of righteousness beyond mere legalistic behavior to the heart, challenging the Pharisaic interpretation that divorce could be justified by a certificate of divorce. Pastor McLean explains that the certificate was not what ended the marriage covenant, but rather sexual infidelity—adultery—was the true breaking point. He clarifies that only death or abandonment by an unbelieving spouse (as noted in Romans 7 and 1 Corinthians 7) can dissolve a marriage covenant, not a legal document. He also addresses the sensitive issue of abuse, urging victims to seek safety and accountability through authorities and church discipline. In the second half, he turns to Jesus' teaching on oaths, arguing that empty vows—swearing by heaven, earth, or one's head—are meaningless and reveal a lack of integrity. True faithfulness is demonstrated not by elaborate oaths, but by living so that 'yes' means yes and 'no' means no. The episode concludes with a call to radical authenticity and holiness, rooted in Christ's imputed righteousness.