Adultery, as defined in the Bible, is the act of engaging in sexual relations with someone who is not one's spouse. It is considered a grave sin and a violation of the marital covenant established by God. The Bible consistently condemns adultery, emphasizing its destructive impact on individuals, families, and society.

In the Old Testament, the commandment against adultery is explicitly stated in the Ten Commandments: "You shall not commit adultery" (Exodus 20:14). This commandment underscores the sanctity of marriage and the importance of fidelity between spouses. The book of Leviticus further prescribes severe consequences for those who commit adultery: "If a man commits adultery with another man's wife—with the wife of his neighbor—both the adulterer and the adulteress must surely be put to death" (Leviticus 20:10).

The wisdom literature of the Old Testament also warns against the allure and consequences of adultery. Proverbs 6:32 states, "But he who commits adultery lacks judgment; whoever does so destroys himself" . This highlights the self-destructive nature of adultery and its ability to bring ruin upon one's life.

In the New Testament, Jesus expands on the understanding of adultery by addressing not only the physical act but also the condition of the heart. In the Sermon on the Mount, He teaches, "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28). This teaching emphasizes the importance of purity in thought and intention, not just in action.

The Apostle Paul reiterates the prohibition against adultery in his epistles, listing it among the works of the flesh that are contrary to the Spirit: "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery" (Galatians 5:19). Paul also emphasizes the sanctity of marriage and the need for mutual fidelity between spouses (Ephesians 5:22-33).

Murder

Murder, the unlawful and intentional taking of a human life, is unequivocally condemned throughout the Bible. It is seen as a direct violation of God's command and an affront to the sanctity of life, which is created in the image of God.

The prohibition against murder is one of the Ten Commandments: "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13). This commandment establishes the fundamental principle that life is sacred and must be protected. The Old Testament law provides further instructions regarding the consequences for those who commit murder, emphasizing justice and retribution: "Whoever strikes and kills a man must surely be put to death" (Exodus 21:12).

The Bible also addresses the issue of murder in the context of personal relationships and societal justice. In Genesis, the account of Cain and Abel illustrates the destructive nature of murder and its consequences. After Cain kills his brother Abel, God confronts him, saying, "What have you done? The voice of your brother's blood cries out to Me from the ground" (Genesis 4:10). This narrative highlights the gravity of murder and the divine justice that follows.

In the New Testament, Jesus deepens the understanding of murder by addressing the underlying attitudes that lead to such acts. In the Sermon on the Mount, He teaches, "You have heard that it was said to the ancients, 'Do not murder,' and 'Anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment" (Matthew 5:21-22). Jesus emphasizes that harboring anger and hatred in one's heart is akin to murder, calling for reconciliation and love instead.

The Apostle John further elaborates on this theme, stating, "Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that eternal life does not reside in a murderer" (1 John 3:15). This teaching underscores the importance of love and the rejection of hatred as essential to the Christian life.

Throughout Scripture, both adultery and murder are depicted as serious sins that violate God's commandments and disrupt the moral order established by Him. They are addressed with gravity and call for repentance and transformation through the grace and forgiveness offered in Jesus Christ.