Topical Encyclopedia Infidelity, often referred to as unfaithfulness or adultery, is a significant theme in the Bible, addressed both in the context of human relationships and in the spiritual relationship between God and His people. It is considered a grave sin, violating the covenant of marriage and the covenant between God and His followers.Biblical Definition and Context In the context of marriage, infidelity is the act of being unfaithful to one's spouse, typically through engaging in sexual relations with someone other than one's lawful partner. The Bible explicitly condemns this behavior, emphasizing the sanctity and exclusivity of the marital bond. In the Ten Commandments, God commands, "You shall not commit adultery" (Exodus 20:14), underscoring the importance of fidelity in marriage. Old Testament References The Old Testament frequently addresses the issue of infidelity, both in literal and metaphorical terms. In the book of Proverbs, wisdom literature warns against the allure of adultery: "But a man who commits adultery lacks judgment; whoever does so destroys himself" (Proverbs 6:32). The consequences of infidelity are depicted as severe, leading to personal ruin and societal discord. The prophet Hosea's marriage to an unfaithful wife serves as a powerful metaphor for Israel's spiritual infidelity to God. Hosea's relationship with Gomer illustrates God's enduring love and willingness to forgive His people despite their unfaithfulness: "The LORD said to me, 'Go, show love to your wife again, though she is loved by another and is an adulteress. Love her as the LORD loves the Israelites, though they turn to other gods'" (Hosea 3:1). New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, Jesus reaffirms the prohibition against adultery and expands on its implications. 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 highlights the importance of purity not only in actions but also in thoughts and intentions. The apostle Paul also addresses infidelity, emphasizing the sanctity of marriage and the need for mutual fidelity between spouses. In his letter to the Corinthians, he writes, "The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband" (1 Corinthians 7:3). Paul underscores the mutual responsibilities and commitments inherent in the marital relationship. Spiritual Infidelity Beyond the physical act, infidelity in the Bible often symbolizes spiritual unfaithfulness. The prophets frequently describe Israel's idolatry and pursuit of other gods as adultery against the Lord. This spiritual infidelity is seen as a breach of the covenant relationship between God and His people, akin to a spouse's betrayal. James, in the New Testament, uses the language of infidelity to describe friendship with the world: "You adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God?" (James 4:4). This metaphorical use of infidelity underscores the call for believers to remain faithful to God, avoiding the temptations and distractions of worldly pursuits. Consequences and Redemption The Bible consistently portrays infidelity as a sin with serious consequences, both in human relationships and in one's relationship with God. However, it also offers a message of hope and redemption. Through repentance and God's grace, forgiveness and restoration are possible. The account of the woman caught in adultery, whom Jesus forgives and instructs to "go and sin no more" (John 8:11), exemplifies the possibility of redemption and a renewed commitment to faithfulness. Topical Bible Verses Romans 7:2For the woman which has an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he lives; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband. Topicalbible.org Luke 16:18 Jude 1:4 Jude 1:15 Luke 16:14 Strong's Hebrew 2184. zenuth -- fornication... whoredom. From zanah; adultery, ie (figuratively) infidelity, idolatry -- whoredom. see HEBREW zanah. 2183, 2184. zenuth. 2185 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/2184.htm - 6k Library This is the Infidelity that You have Forced Me to Fly From... Infidelity Against Atheism and Infidelity. Absurdity of Infidelity. 1 Cor. 1:26-31. Gunsaulus -- the Bible Vs. Infidelity An Infidel who Would not Talk Infidelity Before his Daughter. How is it that the Logical, Critical, Learned Deist Comes by his ... This is the True Height, and Depth, and Total Strength of Deism or ... How Shall the Soul Make Use of Christ, as the Life, which is under ... The Declensions of Christianity, an Argument of Its Truth. Resources Apologetics and Unbelievers ' Article Index | GotQuestions.orgIs God imaginary? | GotQuestions.org Why won't God heal amputees? | GotQuestions.org Infidel: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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