In a chapter entitled, Anatomy of Adultery, Dr. James Dobson addresses a shocking trend in America. Although men were more guilty of committing adultery in previous decades, today married women 29 years of age and younger have turned the tables on their spouses, indulging in significantly more affairs than men. Another study from Dr. Kelly Bonewell reveals 4 out of 10 Americans believe adultery is morally acceptable. If this is true, many adults are inches away from adultery.
The topic of adultery is nothing new. During his famous Sermon on the Mount, Jesus threw a curve ball to those in attendance. Formerly regarded as something only a married man or woman could commit, Jesus introduces a spiritual element to adultery in Matthew 5:27-30. This perspective has no limitations, including all ages, who are also vulnerable to temptation. Adultery isn’t just a sin, its a byproduct of lust. Therefore, if flirting gives birth to lust, James 1:13-15, even Christians can draw close, inches away from adultery.
The first time I read Jesus’ comments in Matthew 5:29-30, I thought He was being unreasonable. However, once I did a little research, I discovered Jesus was referencing the Old Testament principle of purging. When someone removes the atmosphere, environment and traces of lust, thoughts of adultery will fade from their minds. However, if you put yourself into a compromising position one too many times, the line will be crossed so that inches become reality. May the words of 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8 serve as a warning before its too late to alter history.
by Jay Mankus
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