You shall not commit adultery. You shall not commit adultery.This commandment is part of the Decalogue, given by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. It underscores the sanctity of marriage, a covenant relationship established by God. Adultery, in this context, refers to a married person engaging in sexual relations with someone other than their spouse. This prohibition is rooted in the creation narrative where God instituted marriage between one man and one woman (Genesis 2:24). In ancient Israel, marriage was not only a personal commitment but also a social contract that affected the community's stability. Adultery was seen as a serious offense, threatening family integrity and societal order. The consequences of adultery were severe, often resulting in capital punishment (Leviticus 20:10). This reflects the gravity with which God views the violation of marital vows. The commandment also has broader implications, symbolizing Israel's covenant relationship with God. In the prophetic literature, idolatry is often likened to adultery, portraying Israel's unfaithfulness to God (Jeremiah 3:8-9, Hosea 3:1). This metaphor highlights the spiritual dimension of the commandment, emphasizing faithfulness not only in marriage but also in one's relationship with God. In the New Testament, Jesus expands on this commandment, teaching that adultery begins in the heart (Matthew 5:27-28). This internalization of the law points to the need for purity of thought and intention, not just outward compliance. Jesus' teaching underscores the importance of inner transformation, aligning with the new covenant's emphasis on the heart (Jeremiah 31:33). The commandment also foreshadows the relationship between Christ and the Church, described as a marriage in Ephesians 5:25-32. Christ's faithfulness to the Church serves as the ultimate model for marital fidelity, reflecting the divine love and commitment that believers are called to emulate. In summary, this commandment calls for faithfulness in marriage, reflecting God's design for human relationships and His covenant with His people. It challenges believers to uphold the sanctity of marriage and to pursue purity in both actions and thoughts, embodying the faithfulness of Christ. Persons / Places / Events 1. MosesThe prophet and leader of the Israelites who received the Ten Commandments from God on Mount Sinai. He is the one delivering these commandments to the people. 2. Israelites The chosen people of God, who were delivered from slavery in Egypt and are now receiving God's laws to guide their new life in the Promised Land. 3. Mount Sinai The mountain where God gave Moses the Ten Commandments, including the commandment against adultery. 4. Canaan The land promised to the Israelites, where they are to live according to God's laws, including maintaining purity in marriage. 5. God The divine lawgiver who establishes the moral and ethical standards for His people, emphasizing the sanctity of marriage. Teaching Points The Sanctity of MarriageMarriage is a sacred covenant established by God. Adultery violates this covenant and disrupts the divine order. Purity of Heart Jesus teaches that adultery begins in the heart. Believers are called to guard their thoughts and desires, striving for purity in both mind and action. Community Impact Adultery not only affects the individuals involved but also has broader implications for families and communities. Upholding this commandment strengthens societal bonds. Spiritual Fidelity Just as physical adultery is a breach of trust, spiritual adultery—turning away from God to other 'gods' or idols—compromises our relationship with Him. Repentance and Restoration For those who have fallen into adultery, the Bible offers hope through repentance and the possibility of restoration and forgiveness through Christ. Bible Study Questions 1. How does understanding the cultural and historical context of the Israelites enhance our comprehension of the commandment against adultery?2. In what ways does Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:27-28 deepen our understanding of this commandment? 3. How can believers today guard their hearts and minds against the temptation of adultery in a society that often normalizes it? 4. What are some practical steps that married couples can take to protect and nurture their relationship in light of this commandment? 5. How does the concept of spiritual adultery challenge us to examine our relationship with God and our faithfulness to Him? Connections to Other Scriptures Exodus 20:14This verse is a parallel to Deuteronomy 5:18, as it is part of the original giving of the Ten Commandments. Matthew 5:27-28 Jesus expands on the commandment against adultery, teaching that even lustful thoughts are equivalent to committing adultery in one's heart. 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 Paul emphasizes the importance of fleeing from sexual immorality, highlighting that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. Hebrews 13:4 This verse underscores the honor of marriage and the need to keep the marriage bed pure, warning against God's judgment on the sexually immoral.
People MosesPlaces Beth-baal-peor, Egypt, HorebTopics Adultery, Commit, Married, RelationDictionary of Bible Themes Deuteronomy 5:18 5702 husband 1443 revelation, OT 8841 unfaithfulness, to people Library Prayer and Obedience"An obedience discovered itself in Fletcher of Madeley, which I wish I could describe or imitate. It produced in him a ready mind to embrace every cross with alacrity and pleasure. He had a singular love for the lambs of the flock, and applied himself with the greatest diligence to their instruction, for which he had a peculiar gift. . . . All his intercourse with me was so mingled with prayer and praise, that every employment, and every meal was, as it were, perfumed therewith." -- JOHN WESLEY. … Edward M. Bounds—The Necessity of Prayer The Old Testament Canon from Its Beginning to Its Close. Questions About the Nature and Perpetuity of the Seventh-Day Sabbath. "They have Corrupted Themselves; their Spot is not the Spot of his Children; they are a Perverse and Crooked Generation. " The True Manner of Keeping Holy the Lord's Day. The Everlasting Covenant of the Spirit Jesus Fails to Attend the Third Passover. The Angel of the Lord in the Pentateuch, and the Book of Joshua. Mount Zion. The Foundations of Good Citizenship. Deuteronomy Links Deuteronomy 5:18 NIVDeuteronomy 5:18 NLT Deuteronomy 5:18 ESV Deuteronomy 5:18 NASB Deuteronomy 5:18 KJV Deuteronomy 5:18 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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