1

What does the Bible say about marital unfaithfulness?



    
    

Clarify Share Report Asked June 10 2023 Mini Anonymous

Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.

2
Mini Tim Maas Supporter Retired Quality Assurance Specialist with the U.S. Army
In the Ten Commandments, the seventh commandment (Exodus 20:14) was, "You shall not commit adultery." Also, according to Old Testament passages such as Leviticus 20:10 and Deuteronomy 22:22, adultery was to be punished by death.

Even when one spouse was seemingly "permitted" by the other to commit adultery (as was the case of Sarai allowing Abram to father Ishmael with Hagar), the resulting pregnancy caused bitter feelings from Sarai and her retaliation against Hagar. 

Similar strife resulted from Jacob taking two wives (although Laban's treachery contributed to that), as well as Jacob subsequently having children with his wives' handmaidens.

Jesus expanded the prohibition on adultery to include not only the sexual act itself, but also merely looking at another person of the opposite sex with lustful intent (Matthew 5:27-28). He also gave infidelity as the sole valid reason for divorce (Matthew 5:32).

In John 8:2-11, Jesus mercifully spared the life of an adulterous woman who was brought before Him, because of the hypocrisy of the sinful religious authorities who had brought her. However, at the same time, He also told the woman not to sin again.

Infidelity is undoubtedly one of the greatest challenges that any marital relationship can face. If the couple are to remain married, total honesty and future commitment to each other (including the involvement of God in the forgiving and healing process) will be required.

June 11 2023 0 responses Vote Up Share Report


Add your Answer

All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.

What makes a good answer? ▼

A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.

  1. Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
  2. Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
  3. Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
  4. Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
  5. For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible
Header
  1. 4000 characters remaining