PROTECTING MARRIAGE: “You shall not commit adultery”

March 15th, 2020: What are the essential elements for a marriage to occur? Why does Scripture place a high value on sexual intimacy within marriage, but prohibit it outside of marriage?
Oct. 16th, 2022: Should the Bible’s definition of marriage apply to all cultures and all societies? What safeguards can help protect a marriage against adultery? Is it wrong for a couple to live together prior to marriage? What does the Bible say about singleness?

C. God’s definition of marriage is morally binding on all people in all societies for all human history.
1. God’s definition of marriage was not for the Jewish people only but was intended to apply to all people in all societies for all time.
2. Marriage between a man and a woman is the most fundamental institution in any society.
3. Why did God allow polygamy in the Old Testament?

D. Adultery

1. Adultery is prohibited in scripture
            a. Scripture repeatedly affirms that adultery is wrong:

            b. Adultery wrongly intrudes another person into the “one flesh” relationship of marriage.

            c. Adultery wrongly pictures unfaithfulness in the relationship between Christ and the Church.

            d. Adultery destroys trust within a marriage.

            e. Adultery frequently destroys a person’s entire life.

2. Safeguards against adultery.