Adultery

Adultery, as defined in the Bible, is the act of engaging in sexual relations with someone who is not one's spouse. It is considered a grave sin and a violation of the marital covenant established by God. The Seventh Commandment explicitly prohibits adultery: "You shall not commit adultery" (Exodus 20:14). This commandment underscores the sanctity of marriage and the importance of fidelity between spouses.

In the Old Testament, adultery was not only a moral failing but also a legal offense. Leviticus 20:10 prescribes severe consequences: "If a man commits adultery with another man's wife—if he commits adultery with his neighbor's wife—both the adulterer and the adulteress must surely be put to death" . This reflects the seriousness with which the Israelite community regarded the breach of marital vows.

The narrative of King David and Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11) serves as a poignant example of the destructive consequences of adultery. David's sin led to a series of tragic events, including deceit, murder, and the death of an innocent child. This account illustrates how adultery can lead to a cascade of sin and suffering.

In the New Testament, Jesus expands the understanding of adultery beyond the physical act. In the Sermon on the Mount, He teaches, "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28). This statement emphasizes the importance of purity in thought and intention, not just in action.

The Apostle Paul also addresses adultery in his epistles, warning believers to flee from sexual immorality. In 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, he lists adulterers among those who will not inherit the kingdom of God, urging Christians to live lives of holiness and integrity.

Lust

Lust is an intense and often unrestrained sexual desire. In the biblical context, it is considered a sin when it leads individuals away from God's design for sexual relations within the bounds of marriage. Lust is often the precursor to acts of sexual immorality, including adultery.

The Bible warns against the dangers of lust, as it can corrupt the heart and lead to sinful actions. James 1:14-15 explains the progression of sin: "But each one is tempted when by his own evil desires he is lured away and enticed. Then after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death" . This passage highlights how unchecked lust can lead to spiritual death.

In the teachings of Jesus, lust is equated with adultery of the heart, as seen in Matthew 5:28. This teaching calls believers to a higher standard of purity, urging them to guard their hearts and minds against impure thoughts and desires.

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, contrasts the works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit. He lists "sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery" as works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19) and encourages believers to live by the Spirit, which produces self-control and purity.

The Bible provides practical guidance for overcoming lust. In Philippians 4:8, Paul advises believers to focus on things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. By filling one's mind with godly thoughts, believers can resist the temptations of lust and maintain purity in their hearts and lives.

In summary, both adultery and lust are serious sins that undermine the sanctity of marriage and the purity of the believer's heart. The Bible calls for a life of holiness, urging believers to flee from sexual immorality and to cultivate thoughts and actions that honor God.