It’s no secret that the Bible is one of the most talked about and controversial books in existence. The Bible contains lessons and teachings that have shaped how many people live their lives, and has resulted in an enormous impact on the way we view morality. One topic that often arises when reading the Bible is adultery, especially in the Old Testament. So, what does the Bible say about adultery in the Old Testament?
What does the bible say about Adultery in the Old Testament?
The Old Testament contains many warnings and condemnations of adultery. In the Ten Commandments, one of the most important laws is to not commit adultery. Leviticus 18:20 is particularly clear when it states “You shall not have sexual relations with your neighbor’s wife and so defile yourself with her.” In Deuteronomy 22:22, Moses even goes so far as saying “If a man is caught with another man’s wife, both of them shall die”. The Bible does not view adultery kindly, and there are many other passages that make this clear.
Adultery is also seen as a very serious sin in the eyes of the Lord. In the eyes of the Lord, adultery is an offense against Him as well, since it breaks the Covenant of Marriage. In Jeremiah 5:8 it states “They were well-fed lusty horses, each neighing after his neighbor’s wife”. Here it is made clear that the Lord considers adultery a sin, and that it will be punished.
In the Old Testament, God often punishes those who commit adultery. In the Book of Genesis, for example, it is said that Lot’s wife was turned into a pillar of salt when she looked back on Sodom and Gomorrah. In the story of David and Bathsheba, David committed adultery with Bathsheba and was punished with the death of his son. The Bible clearly shows that God will not tolerate adulterous behavior and will punish those who sin against Him in this way.
Despite God’s punishments for those who commit adultery, there are also passages in the Bible that can be interpreted to show that God is also capable of forgiveness for those who sin. In Hosea 2:19-20, it reads “And I will betroth you to me forever. I will betroth you in righteousness and in justice, in steadfast love and in mercy. I will betroth you in faithfulness, and you shall know the Lord”. This shows that although God is capable of justice and punishment, He is also capable of mercy.
In conclusion, the Bible says very clearly that adultery is a sin in the eyes of the Lord, and that it will be punished accordingly. Even though there are passages that can be interpreted as being forgiving, the Bible is still clear about its condemnation of adultery.
Adultery and the New Testament
The Bible also mentions adultery in the New Testament, though its perspective is slightly different. In the New Testament, Jesus speaks more about the heart of adultery and not just its outward action. In Matthew 5:27-28 He says “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” In this passage, Jesus focuses more on one’s inner motivations for adultery, and it is clear that He does not view it favorably.
Unlike the Old Testament, the New Testament is seen as being oriented more towards the idea of repentance and forgiveness. In the Parable of the Prodigal Son it is said that even those who have done wrong may come back to God and be forgiven. This is an example of how Jesus views the possibility of redemption and the importance of repentance.
The New Testament also speaks of God’s willingness to forgive those who repent and turn away from their sinful thoughts and behaviors. In John 8:3-11 it tells the story of a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery and was brought to Jesus for judgment. Jesus knew what she had done but instead of punishing her, He tells her to “go and sin no more”. This shows that, while adultery is still seen as sinful, Jesus still believes in mercy and forgiveness.
In the New Testament, it is clear that the focus is more on repentance and redemption than it is on punishment. It is a reminder to everyone that no matter how badly one may have sinned, God’s mercy and forgiveness still awaits those who turn away from their mistake and return to Him.
Implications of Breaking the Seventh Commandment
Adultery is not just seen as a sin in the eyes of the Lord, but in many countries is also seen as a crime. Depending on the country, adultery may result in jail time, fines, public humiliation, or social exclusion. In some cases, adultery can even be grounds for divorce, when it is viewed as a type of betrayal or breach of trust.
The consequences of adultery are not just legal or social, but can also be emotional. When someone commits adultery and is caught, it can have a devastating effect on a marriage. Infidelity often leads to feelings of betrayal, mistrust, and anger, and it can be difficult to repair the broken trust that is often left behind.
It is also important to consider the effects that adultery can have on a family. If children are involved, they may be feeling the pain of the broken marriage, and it can be difficult for them to understand why their parents don’t love each other anymore. In addition, adultery can damage the reputation of the family, especially if it occurs in a close-knit community.
Adultery is not something to take lightly, as the Bible makes it clear that it is a serious offense both to the Lord and to those affected by it. Though there are consequences to breaking the Seventh Commandment, the Bible also provides hope in the form of repentance and forgiveness.
The Power of Forgiveness
The Bible is clear that despite the harm that adultery can cause, God’s mercy and forgiveness are still possible. In the Parable of the Prodigal Son, the story is used to show that no matter how far one may have strayed from the path of righteousness, one can still come back to God and be forgiven. Jesus also speaks of his willingness to forgive people for even the worst of sins, and examples such as the woman caught in the act of adultery demonstrate His mercy and forgiveness.
It is not easy to forgive someone for committing adultery, especially if the offense was against you. But the Bible does remind us that no matter how deep the wound may be, God’s love and mercy can still bring healing. In the end, it is important to remember that God’s grace is greater than any sin, and that His love is still capable of transforming even the darkest of hearts.
In order to truly forgive someone who has committed adultery, it takes a lot of strength and courage. It can be difficult to put one’s own hurt and anger aside in order to show the same mercy and grace that has been offered to us by God. But, with His help, it is possible and may even bring healing and restoration to a situation that seemed hopeless.
How to Prevent Adultery
Although the discussion of adultery in the Bible is usually centered around punishment and forgiveness, the focus should also be on prevention. The Bible emphasizes the importance of keeping one’s marriage vows, and this is key to preventing adultery from occurring.
If one is to truly avoid adultery, it’s important to remember that it starts in the heart. Keeping one’s marriage vows means that one must be vigilant and faithful to their spouse and strive to keep the spark alive in their relationship. This can be done by spending time together, communicating openly and honestly, and engaging in activities that deepen the bond between a husband and wife. If one can stay faithful to their spouse in their thoughts and actions, it will be much easier to stay away from adultery and the danger it presents.
Adultery can also be prevented by looking out for potential triggers such as vulnerability or temptation. It is important to recognize when we are feeling down or vulnerable, and to find ways to increase our strength and fight the temptation to commit adultery. This can be done by avoiding situations that could lead to adultery, and by seeking out those who can offer spiritual and emotional support when needed.
Finally, prevention is only possible when both parties in a marriage are equally devoted to one another. Respect + love should be at the heart of every marriage, and both partners should strive to treat each other with grace and kindness. If two people can really commit to one another and honor each other’s needs, then the likelihood of adultery is greatly reduced.
A husband of one wife, father of two beautiful girls, laborer of Lord, Jesus Christ, and a servant to God’s His saints. I hope to encourage you by God’s grace. Thank you for stopping by.
