What Does the Bible Say About Adultery?

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Adultery is a topic that deeply affects individuals, families, and communities. It is a betrayal that cuts to the heart of marital trust.

For those seeking guidance and understanding, the Bible provides clear and comprehensive teachings on adultery.

This article delves into what the Bible says about adultery, drawing from various scriptures and interpretations to offer a thorough exploration.

What Does the Bible Say About Adultery?

Adultery is unequivocally condemned in the Bible. In Exodus 20:14 (KJV), one of the Ten Commandments declares, “Thou shalt not commit adultery.”

This commandment underscores the gravity of marital fidelity and the sacredness of the marriage covenant. The Complete Jewish Bible (CJB) translates this similarly: “Do not commit adultery,” emphasizing the need for purity and loyalty within marriage.

In contemporary terms, consider a married couple facing challenges when one partner engages in an extramarital affair. This act not only breaks the spouse’s trust but also violates the divine commandment, leading to profound emotional and spiritual consequences.

The Bible’s prohibition against adultery aims to protect the sanctity of marriage and maintain societal stability.

The Old Testament’s Stance on Adultery

The Old Testament provides stringent laws against adultery. Leviticus 20:10 (KJV) states, “And the man that committeth adultery with another man’s wife, even he that committeth adultery with his neighbour’s wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death.” This harsh penalty reflects the gravity of adultery in ancient Israelite society.

The CJB mirrors this severity, emphasizing the need to purge evil from the community.

A real-life example from the Bible is King David’s affair with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11). David’s adultery led to a series of tragic events, including the murder of Bathsheba’s husband and the death of their first child.

This narrative illustrates the far-reaching consequences of adultery, reinforcing the Old Testament’s strict stance against it.

Jesus’ Teachings: Adultery and the Heart

Jesus expanded the definition of adultery to include not just physical acts but also thoughts and intentions. In Matthew 5:27-28 (KJV), He says, “Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.”

This teaching highlights the importance of purity in both action and thought.

The CJB translates this passage as, “You have heard that our fathers were told, ‘Do not commit adultery.’ But I tell you that a man who even looks at a woman with the purpose of lusting after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”

This interpretation underscores the significance of inner purity and the need to guard one’s thoughts against temptation.

For instance, a person might not physically engage in adultery but indulges in lustful fantasies. According to Jesus’ teaching, this mental unfaithfulness is equally sinful.

This broadened understanding calls for a higher standard of moral integrity, urging believers to maintain purity in both mind and body.

Consequences of Adultery: What Does the Bible Say About Adultery?

What does the Bible say about adultery? The consequences are severe and far-reaching. Proverbs 6:32-33 (KJV) warns, “But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul. A wound and dishonour shall he get; and his reproach shall not be wiped away.”

Adultery damages relationships, reputations, and spiritual well-being. The CJB echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the self-destructive nature of adultery.

A modern example involves a public figure caught in an adulterous affair. This scandal not only tarnishes their reputation but also brings immense personal and professional consequences.

The Bible’s warnings about the repercussions of adultery highlight the need for faithfulness and the serious impact of such betrayals.

Adultery and Divorce: Biblical Grounds and Guidelines

The Bible addresses the complex relationship between adultery and divorce. In Matthew 19:9 (KJV), Jesus states, “And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.”

This passage indicates that adultery is a permissible ground for divorce, acknowledging the deep betrayal it represents.

The CJB renders this verse as, “Now what I say to you is that whoever divorces his wife, except on the ground of sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery!”

This translation reinforces the idea that adultery breaks the marital bond, justifying divorce in such cases.

Consider a spouse who discovers their partner’s infidelity and decides to file for divorce. This decision, supported by biblical teachings, reflects the profound breach of trust caused by adultery.

The Bible provides clear guidelines for dealing with such situations, offering a path for those affected to seek healing and new beginnings.

The Path to Forgiveness and Redemption

Despite its severity, adultery is not beyond the scope of God’s forgiveness. In 1 John 1:9 (KJV), it says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

The Bible emphasizes repentance and the transformative power of God’s grace, offering hope for those seeking redemption.

The CJB similarly states, “If we acknowledge our sins, then, since he is trustworthy and just, he will forgive them and purify us from all wrongdoing.”

This assurance of forgiveness encourages individuals who have committed adultery to seek God’s mercy and strive for a renewed, righteous life.

A real-life example is the story of a couple who, after experiencing adultery, sought counseling and spiritual guidance. Through sincere repentance and forgiveness, they rebuilt their marriage, demonstrating that healing and restoration are possible with God’s help.

Adultery in the Heart: Avoiding the Slippery Slope

The Bible advises vigilance in guarding against even the temptation of adultery. In Proverbs 4:23 (KJV), we are told, “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”

By maintaining a pure heart and avoiding compromising situations, believers can uphold their commitment to fidelity.

The CJB translates this as, “Above everything else, guard your heart; for it is the source of life’s consequences.” This underscores the importance of inner purity and the proactive steps necessary to avoid falling into temptation.

For instance, avoiding close, private interactions with someone of the opposite sex who is not your spouse can help prevent the development of inappropriate feelings.

Practicing such boundaries can protect one’s marriage from the slippery slope of emotional and physical adultery.

Rebuilding Trust After Adultery: What Does the Bible Say About Adultery?

Rebuilding trust after adultery is challenging but possible with God’s guidance. Ephesians 4:32 (KJV) encourages, “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”

This passage underscores the importance of forgiveness, compassion, and patience in healing and restoring relationships.

The CJB states, “Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted; and forgive each other, just as in the Messiah God has also forgiven you.” This translation highlights the transformative power of forgiveness in rebuilding broken relationships.

Consider a couple who has endured the pain of adultery. With the support of their faith community and commitment to biblical principles, they work through their hurt and rebuild their marriage.

Their journey demonstrates that, with God’s help, trust can be restored, and relationships can be healed.

FAQ: Common Questions About Adultery in the Bible

What does the Bible say about adultery?

The Bible clearly condemns adultery, considering it a serious sin that violates the sanctity of marriage. It includes both physical acts and lustful thoughts (Exodus 20:14, Matthew 5:27-28).

Is divorce allowed in the Bible due to adultery?

Yes, adultery is one of the grounds for divorce mentioned in the Bible. Jesus stated that divorce is permissible in the case of sexual immorality (Matthew 19:9).

What are the three biblical reasons for divorce?

The three commonly cited biblical reasons for divorce are adultery, abandonment by an unbelieving spouse, and abuse, according to modern interpretations (Matthew 19:9, 1 Corinthians 7:15).

Does God want you to stay in an unhappy marriage?

God’s preference is for reconciliation and forgiveness within marriage. However, in cases of severe issues like infidelity, abandonment, or abuse, divorce may be considered as a last resort (Ephesians 4:32, Matthew 19:9).

What does the Bible say about divorce and separation?

The Bible advises that separation should ideally lead to reconciliation. If reconciliation is impossible, divorce may be permitted under specific conditions, and remarriage may be considered (1 Corinthians 7:10-11, 15).