Adultery is not just about physical unfaithfulness: it begins in the heart, in words, in secret affections, and in careless actions. Today, broken boundaries, flirty words, late-night secret communications, improper gestures, and touchy hands have sadly become common even among married men and women. Yet, God calls it what it is: sin, exceedingly sinful in His sight.
God’s Command Against Adultery
“Thou shalt not commit adultery.
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“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.
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Marriage is a sacred covenant. The affection, tender words, and gestures of love of a married person must be reserved only for their spouse. To bestow them elsewhere is to rob God and one’s partner of what rightfully belongs in marriage.
“Be as true as steel to your marriage vows, refusing, in thought, word, or deed, to spoil your record as a man who fears God and obeys His commandments.
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The Sacredness of Marriage
Marriage vows are not mere words spoken at the altar: they are solemn promises before God. To trifle with them is to dishonor heaven.
“The law of God is plainly written in the New Testament Scriptures. Adultery is there mentioned as one of the sins that will close the gates of the Holy City against the transgressor.
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The marriage bed must be kept pure. God requires faithfulness not only in deeds but also in thoughts and attitudes.
Why is Adultery Prevalent in the Church?
Tragically, worldliness has crept into the church. Fashion displays, low necklines, tight dresses, short skirts, and revealing clothing have turned the house of God into a place of temptation rather than reverence.
“Fashion is deteriorating the morals of the youth. Its influence is to weaken the mind, to destroy the love of simplicity, and to create in both young and old a passion for dress and display.
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When professed Christians act carelessly or dress immodestly, they not only dishonor God but also become stumbling blocks to others.
“But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.
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Practical Steps to Guard Against Adultery
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Guard the Thoughts
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Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.
”Proverbs 4:23bible“
Few realize that it is a duty to exercise control over the thoughts and imagination.
”Mind, Character, and Personality Vol. 2p. 595sop -
Avoid Familiarities and Tempting Situations
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Abstain from all appearance of evil.
”1 Thessalonians 5:22bible“
Those who would preserve physical health, a sound understanding, and a good memory must flee from the excitement of forbidden pleasures.
”Child Guidancep. 466sop -
Dress Modestly and Encourage Modesty in the Church
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In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety.
”1 Timothy 2:9bible“
A modest God-fearing woman will dress modestly.
”Messages to Young Peoplep. 344sop -
Cherish and Nurture Your Marriage
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Marriage has received Christ’s sanction and blessing, and it is to be regarded as a sacred institution.
”Adventist Homep. 25sop -
Pray and Stay Connected to Christ
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Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
”Matthew 26:41bible“
The strongest temptation cannot excuse sin. However great the pressure brought to bear upon the soul, transgression is our own act.
”Great Controversyp. 511sop
Adultery: in thoughts, words, or actions, is an abomination before God. It destroys homes, cripples the church’s witness, and brings reproach upon the name of Christ. Let us guard the sacredness of marriage, uphold purity in the church, and honor God by living faithfully. May husbands and wives be “true as steel” to their vows, and may the church reflect Christ’s holiness in every word, deed, and appearance.