Ezra 10:40 is a name entry that lists Machnadebai among the men who had taken foreign wives. As a verse that records only names, it shows that many Bible verses record names rather than promises. The list records the people's response to the call for reform in putting away the forbidden marriages and practically separating from surrounding heathen practices. That practical separation was undertaken before the people could be taught the law. That separation was meant to prepare the people spiritually for rebuilding Jerusalem.
The chapter containing the verse is God's clear counsel in love and mercy about marriage, to be read and prayerfully considered and cheerfully obeyed, together with marrying only in the Lord. Carefully and prayerfully consulting this word and walking in agreement with it escapes bitter anguish of heart and painful regret for long years and the frequent disappointments of marriage and the repentance that is at once too soon and too late, because the duties of marriage must be studied before entering it.
Ezra 10:40 is a name entry that lists Machnadebai among the men who had taken foreign wives. As a verse that records only names, it shows that many Bible verses record names rather than promises. The list records the people's response to the call for reform in putting away the forbidden marriages and practically separating from surrounding heathen practices. That practical separation was undertaken before the people could be taught the law. That separation was meant to prepare the people spiritually for rebuilding Jerusalem.
The chapter containing the verse is God's clear counsel in love and mercy about marriage, to be read and prayerfully considered and cheerfully obeyed, together with marrying only in the Lord. Carefully and prayerfully consulting this word and walking in agreement with it escapes bitter anguish of heart and painful regret for long years and the frequent disappointments of marriage and the repentance that is at once too soon and too late, because the duties of marriage must be studied before entering it.