10C's #7: Adultery, part a
You shall not commit adultery
Exodus 20:14
Contrary to the claims of some, God is indeed concerned about sexual ethics. But he is also concerned with the concept of fidelity as a whole. Adultery is an issue of the heart. Fidelity in our earthly relationships demonstrates our fidelity to our heavenly relationship. There are many examples of this in God's dealing with his people. See a list here. Hosea and Ezekiel use the metaphor of adultery over and over to contrast God's faithfulness and Israel's unfaithfulness. Jesus demonstrates that fidelity is the issue, and a serious one, in his Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5.
What is wrong with "window shopping?" Jesus considers it very wrong. Adultery is idolatry. It moves the focus of worship off God. Adultery serves the self. Adultery is not about love. God is love.
I don't think our modern culture offers unique opportunities for adultery, just new technology. I've read articles about the virtual world called Second Life where real world spouses takes virtual world spouses, often with consent of the real one. Does consent make it not adulterous? God defines the sin, not the sinners. It's the definition I'll throw various attempts at infidelity against and see what sticks in this series.
Exodus 20:14
Contrary to the claims of some, God is indeed concerned about sexual ethics. But he is also concerned with the concept of fidelity as a whole. Adultery is an issue of the heart. Fidelity in our earthly relationships demonstrates our fidelity to our heavenly relationship. There are many examples of this in God's dealing with his people. See a list here. Hosea and Ezekiel use the metaphor of adultery over and over to contrast God's faithfulness and Israel's unfaithfulness. Jesus demonstrates that fidelity is the issue, and a serious one, in his Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5.
5:27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Do not commit adultery.’ 5:28 But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to desire her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 5:29 If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away! It is better to lose one of your members than to have your whole body thrown into hell. 5:30 If your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away! It is better to lose one of your members than to have your whole body go into hell. NET
What is wrong with "window shopping?" Jesus considers it very wrong. Adultery is idolatry. It moves the focus of worship off God. Adultery serves the self. Adultery is not about love. God is love.
I don't think our modern culture offers unique opportunities for adultery, just new technology. I've read articles about the virtual world called Second Life where real world spouses takes virtual world spouses, often with consent of the real one. Does consent make it not adulterous? God defines the sin, not the sinners. It's the definition I'll throw various attempts at infidelity against and see what sticks in this series.
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