As Christians, we look to God’s Word for guidance in all areas of life, including matters of faithfulness and purity. Adultery is a serious sin in the eyes of God, impacting not just marriages, but our relationship with Him. Scripture offers clear direction, warnings, and grace for those affected. Let’s explore what the Bible says about adultery and seek to live in holiness through the strength God provides.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Jealousy in Marriage
God’s Command Against Adultery
From the beginning, God established marriage as a sacred covenant. Adultery breaks that covenant and damages the trust and bond designed by Him. The Bible consistently speaks against adultery, urging us to honor our commitments and live righteously. Here are some verses that highlight God’s clear command concerning adultery:
Exodus 20:14
“You must not commit adultery.”
Leviticus 20:10
“If a man commits adultery with his neighbor’s wife, both the man and the woman who have committed adultery must be put to death.”
Deuteronomy 5:18
“You must not commit adultery.”
Proverbs 6:32
“But the man who commits adultery is an utter fool, for he destroys himself.”
Matthew 5:27-28
“You have heard the commandment that says, ‘You must not commit adultery.’ But I say, anyone who even looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
The Consequences of Adultery
Adultery carries painful consequences, not only relationally but also spiritually. It fractures families, breeds mistrust, and distances us from God’s blessings. The Bible often warns about the destruction that follows this sin, urging us to pursue wisdom and righteousness instead. Let’s look at what Scripture teaches about the consequences of adultery:
Proverbs 6:29
“So it is with the man who sleeps with another man’s wife. He who embraces her will not go unpunished.”
Hebrews 13:4
“Give honor to marriage, and remain faithful to one another in marriage. God will surely judge people who are immoral and those who commit adultery.”
Job 24:15
“The adulterer waits for the twilight, saying, ‘No one will see me then.’ He hides his face so no one will know him.”
Jeremiah 5:7
“How can I pardon you? For even your children have turned from me. They have sworn by gods that are not gods at all! I fed my people until they were full, but they thanked me by committing adultery and lining up at the brothels.”
Malachi 3:5
“At that time I will put you on trial. I am eager to witness against all sorcerers and adulterers and liars. I will speak against those who cheat employees of their wages, who oppress widows and orphans, or who deprive foreigners living among you of justice, for these people do not fear me, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies.”
Jesus’ Teachings on Adultery
Jesus elevated the understanding of adultery beyond the physical act to include even the intentions and thoughts of the heart. His teachings call us to deeper holiness and sincerity in our relationships. Here are verses from the Gospels that reveal Jesus’ heart concerning adultery:
Matthew 5:31-32
“You have heard the law that says, ‘A man can divorce his wife by merely giving her a written notice of divorce.’ But I say that a man who divorces his wife, unless she has been unfaithful, causes her to commit adultery. And anyone who marries a divorced woman also commits adultery.”
Matthew 19:9
“And I tell you this, whoever divorces his wife and marries someone else commits adultery—unless his wife has been unfaithful.”
Mark 7:20-23
“And then he added, ‘It is what comes from inside that defiles you. For from within, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness. All these vile things come from within; they are what defile you.'”
John 8:4-5
“Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?”
Luke 16:18
“Anyone who divorces his wife and marries someone else commits adultery, and anyone who marries a woman divorced from her husband commits adultery.”
Also Read: Bible Verses About Second Chances in Marriage
The Call to Purity and Faithfulness
Purity and faithfulness are precious in God’s sight, reflecting His nature and love. He calls believers to uphold these virtues in every part of our lives, especially within marriage. Living pure lives strengthens our walk with Him and our relationships with others. Let’s explore verses calling us to purity:
1 Thessalonians 4:3-4
“God’s will is for you to be holy, so stay away from all sexual sin. Then each of you will control his own body and live in holiness and honor.”
Colossians 3:5
“So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world.”
2 Timothy 2:22
“Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.”
James 4:4
“You adulterers! Don’t you realize that friendship with the world makes you an enemy of God? I say it again: If you want to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God.”
1 Peter 1:14-16
“So you must live as God’s obedient children. Don’t slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn’t know any better then. But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. For the Scriptures say, ‘You must be holy because I am holy.'”
Repentance and Forgiveness for Adultery
Though adultery is a grievous sin, God’s mercy and forgiveness are greater. For anyone who has stumbled, the Lord extends grace, healing, and restoration through repentance. The Bible beautifully shows that redemption is possible through Jesus Christ. Here are Scriptures that encourage repentance and forgiveness:
1 John 1:9
“But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.”
Psalm 51:1-2
“Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins. Wash me clean from my guilt. Purify me from my sin.”
Isaiah 1:18
“Come now, let’s settle this,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, I will make them as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, I will make them as white as wool.”
Acts 3:19
“Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away.”
Romans 8:1
“So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.”
Walking in Newness of Life
Through God’s grace, we are empowered to walk in newness of life, free from the chains of sin. The journey of holiness is not about our strength but about His transforming power within us. Scripture reminds us that we are new creations, called to live for His glory. Here are some encouraging verses about living renewed lives:
2 Corinthians 5:17
“This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!”
Romans 6:4
“For we died and were buried with Christ by baptism. And just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glorious power of the Father, now we also may live new lives.”
Galatians 2:20
“My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Ephesians 4:22-24
“Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.”
Titus 2:11-12
“For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God.”
Remaining Faithful Until the End
Faithfulness is not just a one-time act but a lifelong commitment. As believers, we are called to walk consistently in truth and love, honoring both God and our marriage vows. God rewards those who persevere and remain true to His Word, despite temptations and trials. The journey of faithfulness brings deep joy, peace, and testimony to His grace. Here are some encouraging verses about staying faithful to God and to one another until the very end:
Matthew 24:13
“But the one who endures to the end will be saved.”
Revelation 2:10
“Don’t be afraid of what you are about to suffer. The devil will throw some of you into prison to test you. You will suffer for ten days. But if you remain faithful even when facing death, I will give you the crown of life.”
2 Timothy 4:7
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.”
James 1:12
“God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.”
1 Corinthians 4:2
“Now, a person who is put in charge as a manager must be faithful.”