The 7th Commandment: Do Not Commit Adultry

The seventh of the ten commandments is given to protect marriage. I love my neighbor by honoring their covenant commitment to God and to each other. The PRECEPT from God is clear, "Do not commit adultery". When we examine this command we see that: (1) God's design was to have one man united to one woman for life - an exclusive one flesh relationship; and (2) God's decree was to let marriage be held in honor and the marriage bed undefiled - adulterers would be judged. God explained marriage clearly: (1) a married couple had a unique connection as they were to leave, cleave and became one flesh - united sexually as blood relatives; and (2) God built in controls - both partners were bound by law while living - marriage was a sacred, lifelong relationship. The POINT made by Jesus in Matthew 5:27-30 clarified the original directions - sexual desire for another's spouse by looking on her with lust is committing adultery in the heart. Drastic decisions must be made - like tearing out one's right eye and cutting off one's right hand.