and the two will become one flesh.This phrase is a direct reference to
Genesis 2:24, where God establishes the institution of marriage. In the biblical context, marriage is seen as a divine covenant, not merely a social contract. The "two" refers to a man and a woman, highlighting the complementary nature of the genders as designed by God. The concept of "one flesh" signifies a profound unity, not just physically but also spiritually and emotionally. This unity is a reflection of the relationship between Christ and the Church, as described in
Ephesians 5:31-32. The phrase underscores the permanence and exclusivity intended in marriage, which was counter-cultural in both ancient Jewish and Greco-Roman societies, where divorce and polygamy were more common.
So they are no longer two,
This part emphasizes the transformation that occurs in marriage. The individual identities are not lost, but they are united in a new, shared identity. This unity is meant to be holistic, affecting all aspects of life. In the historical context, this teaching was radical, as it challenged the prevailing views on marriage and divorce. Jesus' statement here reinforces the idea that marriage is not just a legal arrangement but a divine union. This unity is also a type of the unity believers have with Christ, as seen inJohn 17:21-23, where Jesus prays for His followers to be one as He and the Father are one.
but one flesh.
The repetition of "one flesh" serves to reinforce the inseparability and unity of the marital bond. This concept is foundational to the biblical understanding of marriage and is echoed in other scriptures, such as1 Corinthians 6:16, which warns against sexual immorality by highlighting the sacredness of becoming "one flesh." Theologically, this unity is a reflection of the Trinity, where distinct persons exist in perfect unity. Culturally, this teaching elevates the status of marriage, calling for fidelity and commitment. It also serves as a prophetic picture of the ultimate union between Christ and His bride, the Church, as depicted inRevelation 19:7-9.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
Jesus ChristThe central figure in the Gospel of Mark, who is teaching about marriage and divorce in this passage.
2.
PhariseesReligious leaders who often challenged Jesus, including on matters of the law such as marriage.
3.
DisciplesFollowers of Jesus who are present during this teaching and often seek further explanation.
4.
GenesisThe book of the Bible from which Jesus quotes, specifically
Genesis 2:24, to emphasize the divine intention for marriage.
5.
MarriageThe institution being discussed, which Jesus affirms as a union created by God.
Teaching Points
Divine Design for MarriageMarriage is not merely a social contract but a divine institution established by God. It reflects His intention for unity and partnership.
Unity in MarriageThe phrase "one flesh" signifies a profound unity that goes beyond physical union to include emotional, spiritual, and relational oneness.
Permanence of MarriageJesus' teaching underscores the permanence of marriage, challenging the cultural norms of His time and ours that treat marriage as temporary or disposable.
Reflecting Christ and the ChurchChristian marriages are called to reflect the relationship between Christ and the Church, characterized by love, sacrifice, and mutual submission.
Guarding the Sanctity of MarriageBelievers are encouraged to honor and protect the sanctity of marriage, recognizing it as a covenant before God.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Mark 10:8?
2.How does Mark 10:8 define the unity between husband and wife?
3.What does "one flesh" imply for marital relationships in today's society?
4.How does Genesis 2:24 relate to the teaching in Mark 10:8?
5.How can couples practically live out the "one flesh" principle daily?
6.In what ways can churches support marriages based on Mark 10:8's teachings?
7.How does Mark 10:8 define the concept of marriage in Christian theology?
8.What historical context influenced the writing of Mark 10:8?
9.How does Mark 10:8 relate to the concept of unity in marriage?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Mark 10?
11.What are the different types of demons?
12.What does the Bible say about open marriage/polyamory?
13.Does God disapprove of divorce?
14.Matthew 20:29-34 - How can Matthew's account of two blind men be reconciled with Mark 10:46-52, which only mentions one?What Does Mark 10:8 Mean
The two“and the two …” (Mark 10:8)
•Scripture consistently presents marriage as the union of one man and one woman, beginning withGenesis 1:27 and affirmed inGenesis 2:18, 22.
•By saying “the two,” Jesus echoesGenesis 2:24, underlining that marriage is God’s idea, not a human invention.
•Each spouse enters the covenant as a distinct person, created in the image of God (Matthew 19:4;Ephesians 5:28-29).
Will become“… will become …” (Mark 10:8)
•“Become” points to a decisive act and an ongoing reality. At the wedding, God joins the couple (Matthew 19:6), yet their unity is also cultivated over a lifetime (Colossians 3:12-14).
•The phrase carries covenant weight (Malachi 2:14); marriage is more than a contract—it is a binding promise initiated before God.
•Practical outworking: leaving parents’ primary authority, cleaving to the spouse, and forming a new household (Genesis 2:24).
One flesh“… one flesh.” (Mark 10:8)
•Physical union is included, but the phrase reaches further, embracing spiritual, emotional, and practical oneness (1 Corinthians 6:16;Proverbs 5:18-19).
•InEphesians 5:31-32 Paul ties “one flesh” to Christ and His church, showing marriage as a living parable of the gospel.
•This unity demands exclusivity and faithfulness (Hebrews 13:4), safeguarding both partners and any children God may give (Malachi 2:15).
No longer two“So they are no longer two …” (Mark 10:8)
•Jesus interprets the Genesis text, emphasizing permanence. What was “two” is now a single, God-fashioned entity (Matthew 19:6).
•Oneness shapes decisions—finances, priorities, time, and ministry—because the couple now pursues a shared life (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12).
•Individual uniqueness remains, yet it is harmonized for mutual good and God’s glory (1 Peter 3:7).
But one flesh“… but one flesh.” (Mark 10:8)
•The repetition underscores how seriously God views marriage: it is not to be undone by casual choice (Romans 7:2;Malachi 2:16).
•Permanence offers security, fostering trust and deep intimacy.
•The statement anticipates verse 9: “Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate” (Mark 10:9). Jesus roots marital fidelity in God’s creative authority, not merely cultural expectation.
summaryMark 10:8 affirms that marriage, designed by God, unites one man and one woman into a single, inseparable “one flesh” relationship. The couple enters a lifelong covenant, leaving old ties to build a unified life in every dimension. Jesus’ words call spouses to exclusive, faithful, enduring commitment, reflecting the steadfast love of Christ for His people.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek
andκαὶ(kai)Conjunction
Strong's 2532:And, even, also, namely.theοἱ(hoi)Article - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.twoδύο(dyo)Adjective - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 1417:Two. A primary numeral; 'two'.will becomeἔσονται(esontai)Verb - Future Indicative Middle - 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 1510:I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.oneμίαν(mian)Adjective - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 1520:One. (including the neuter Hen); a primary numeral; one.flesh.’σάρκα(sarka)Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4561:Flesh, body, human nature, materiality; kindred.Soὥστε(hōste)Conjunction
Strong's 5620:So that, therefore, so then, so as to. From hos and te; so too, i.e. Thus therefore.they areεἰσὶν(eisin)Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural
Strong's 1510:I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.no longerοὐκέτι(ouketi)Adverb
Strong's 3765:No longer, no more. Also ouk eti from ou and eti; not yet, no longer.two,δύο(dyo)Adjective - Nominative Masculine Plural
Strong's 1417:Two. A primary numeral; 'two'.butἀλλὰ(alla)Conjunction
Strong's 235:But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.oneμία(mia)Adjective - Nominative Feminine Singular
Strong's 1520:One. (including the neuter Hen); a primary numeral; one.flesh.σάρξ(sarx)Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular
Strong's 4561:Flesh, body, human nature, materiality; kindred.
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NT Gospels: Mark 10:8 And the two will become one flesh (Mar Mk Mr)