What does Matthew 22:30 mean?

The question raised by the Sadducees was meant to demonstrate the absurdity of a resurrection of the dead (Matthew 22:15–28). However, this challenge was based on completely wrong assumptions about the Scriptures and the power of God (Matthew 22:29). It's been said that we often learn the most important truths by asking "dumb" questions. In this case, at least, an off-target question opens the door for correction and learning.

In short, Jesus says, there isn't any contradiction or complication, at all. Resurrected human beings will be like angels in one respect: Men will not marry, and women will not be given in marriage. Marriage, the pairing of couples for life, will cease to exist there. As eternal beings, angels do not apparently reproduce, making marriage unnecessary. Humans will apparently exist in that non-married, non-reproducing status, as well. Jesus' answer also corrects the Sadducees' wrong idea that angels do not exist.

This gives a firm, if unexpected answer to the Sadducees: the wife married to seven consecutive brothers on earth will not be wife to any of them in heaven. He will not stop there, however. Christ will continue to show how the Sadducees' own preferred Scriptures make a clear case for life after death (Matthew 22:31–32).

It's important to note what Jesus does not say here, as it's often taken out of context and misquoted. Jesus does not say humans will become angels after death. Angels and humans are entirely different kinds of beings. Jesus only says people will be "like" angels, and only in this one way: not being married. Otherwise, people and angels will remain unique and distinct creations of God.