The Seventh Commandment: You Shall Not Commit Adultery
The seventh commandment is one of the most well-known commandments: “You shall not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14). This commandment teaches us the importance of sexual purity and faithfulness in marriage. But what does it mean to avoid adultery? And how can we apply this commandment in our daily lives?
Avoiding Adultery
Avoiding adultery means staying faithful to our spouses and avoiding any sexual activity outside of marriage. The Bible tells us that marriage is a sacred covenant between a man and a woman, and that sexual activity is reserved for this relationship alone (1 Corinthians 6:18-20). Adultery not only violates this covenant but also damages the trust and intimacy that is essential to a healthy marriage.
The Bible also reminds us that avoiding adultery is not just a matter of following a rule, but of preserving our own purity and the purity of others. In Proverbs 6:27-28, it says, “Can a man scoop fire into his lap without his clothes being burned? Can a man walk on hot coals without his feet being scorched? So is he who sleeps with another man’s wife; no one who touches her will go unpunished.”
Applying the Seventh Commandment
Applying the seventh commandment requires us to cultivate a spirit of purity and faithfulness in our hearts and in our actions. We should avoid any situations that could lead to temptation, such as spending time alone with someone of the opposite sex, watching pornography, or engaging in sexually suggestive conversations.
For those who are married, it is important to prioritize our relationship with our spouse and to work together to strengthen our intimacy and trust. This may involve seeking counseling or support from our church community.
Conclusion
The seventh commandment teaches us the importance of sexual purity and faithfulness in marriage. As we seek to apply this commandment in our daily lives, may we remember that avoiding adultery is not just a matter of following a rule, but of preserving the sacred covenant of marriage and of valuing the purity and dignity of ourselves and others.