Bible Truth FAQs

WHAT CONSTITUTES ADULTERY?

It is highly probable that many people are in adulterous unions unknowingly. In view of the seriousness of this condition it would be worthwhile to study the words or Christ to see what causes it, and to heed the scriptures which tell us the result of it.

Jesus said (Matt. 5:32). "But I say unto you, that whosoever shall put away his wire, saving for the cause or fornication, causeth her to commit adultery; and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery." Matt. 19:9 is very similarly stated. These texts are plain in saying only the cause of fornication will justify divorce and remarriage, and that a person who is put away in divorce (the passive party) for any reason, cannot remarry without committing adultery. Civil law grants divorce and remarriage for almost any reason, but the Bible allows only the cause of fornication.

What is the result of adultery? It's the same as for any other sin. Specifically, they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God (Gal. 5:19-21). People generally will not repent of the sin of adultery because repentance requires dissolution of the unholy marriage. But remember, any sin, unrepented of, will bring eternal condemnation (Luke 13:3).

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