EXODUS 20:14: You shall not commit adultery.
A newspaper publisher offered a prize for the best answer to the question, “Why is a newspaper like a
good woman?” The winning answer was, “Because every man should have one of his own and not
look at his neighbor’s!”
While the publisher’s contest may not have been in the best of taste, the winning answer certainly
contains an important truth. As the Israelites moved out into pagan nations that worshiped fertility
gods and goddesses, God knew they would face strong temptations to sexual immorality. Therefore
He bluntly commanded them, “You shall not commit adultery.”
This same command is repeated in a number of ways in the New Testament. The writer of Hebrews
says, “Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will
judge” (Heb. 13:4). The apostle Paul ranks adultery on the same level as idolatry, sorcery, murder,
and drunkenness, among other sins of the flesh (Gal. 5:19-21).
We must also remember that Jesus expanded the meaning of adultery beyond the physical act to
include lusting in our hearts (Matt. 5:27-28). In fact, almost all adultery begins in the heart.
In our own day, when adultery and almost every other form of sexual immorality is accepted as
commonplace, Christians need to walk carefully as well. Satan will use everything including the
scantily clad person on the beach, the pornographic magazines sold at the local gas station or the
suggestive shows on television to cause you to stumble.
If you struggle with sexual temptation, begin to memorize God’s Word, especially verses that talk
about purity (such as Matt. 5:8 and 1 Tim. 5:22). If the problem begins in the heart, hide God’s Word
there so you can nip temptation at the point of origin (Ps. 119:11).
Share your struggle with a trusted friend who can both keep your confidence and keep you
accountable. Whatever it might cost in terms of wounded pride and denied desires, it will be worth it
all.
WHEN ADULTERY WALKS IN, EVERYTHING WORTH HAVING WALKS OUT.