How does Proverbs 5:3 relate to the commandment against adultery in Exodus 20:14? Setting the Stage • Exodus 20:14 lays down God’s unambiguous boundary: “You shall not commit adultery.” • Proverbs 5:3 zooms in on the temptation that can lead to crossing that boundary: “For the lips of an adulterous woman drip honey, and her speech is smoother than oil.” • Together, they reveal both the divine rule and the human reality: the sin is forbidden, yet its lure can feel irresistible unless we heed God’s wisdom. The Commandment: God’s Unchanging Standard • Exodus 20:14 is part of the Ten Commandments—God’s universal moral code. • It protects marriage, mirrors God’s covenant faithfulness, and safeguards the integrity of family and society (Malachi 2:14-16). • Breaking it isn’t merely a private failure; it is rebellion against God’s holy character (Hebrews 13:4). The Warning: Proverbs Exposes the Lure • Proverbs 5:3 describes how temptation works: – “Drip honey” – Adultery often begins with sweet-sounding words and emotional flattery. – “Smoother than oil” – It feels soothing, convincing, even harmless. • Verses 4-5 show the outcome: “But in the end she is bitter as wormwood… her steps lead down to Sheol.” • Proverbs adds color and urgency to Exodus: the commandment is not a cold rule but a loving warning from a Father who sees the end from the beginning (Proverbs 5:21-23). How Proverbs 5:3 Amplifies Exodus 20:14 1. Illuminates the Battlefront • Exodus states the line; Proverbs shows where the battle is fought—at the point of seductive words, lingering looks, and secret conversations (cf. Proverbs 6:24-25). 2. Highlights the Need for Vigilance • The sweetness of temptation masks deadly consequences. Knowing the commandment isn’t enough; we must guard our hearts before desire conceives sin (James 1:14-15). 3. Emphasizes Covenant Faithfulness • The adulterous path violates covenant love, while God calls His people to reflect His steadfast covenant loyalty (Hosea 2:19-20). 4. Encourages Wisdom’s Preventive Power • Proverbs 5 urges proactive choices—listen to wisdom, rejoice in one’s spouse, and avoid the path at its start (Proverbs 5:8, 18-19). The commandment’s “You shall not” finds practical expression in wise daily habits. Living the Lesson Today • Guard your speech and ears—flirtatious words are often the gateway (Ephesians 5:3-4). • Cultivate satisfaction in your own marriage; delight crowds out wandering desires (Proverbs 5:15-19). • Keep the end in view—temporary sweetness produces lifelong bitterness if God’s boundary is crossed. • Lean on Christ’s strength and redemption. He fulfills the law and empowers purity (Matthew 5:27-28; 1 Corinthians 6:18-20). Proverbs 5:3 paints the tempting front end of adultery; Exodus 20:14 states God’s righteous verdict on the act itself. Together they call us to recognize the lure, cherish God’s design for marriage, and walk in wisdom that leads to life. |
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