Infidelity is a painful breach of trust in relationships, and the Bible addresses this issue with wisdom and guidance. Dive into the scriptures that illuminate the consequences of infidelity and the path to forgiveness and healing. Whether you’ve been affected by infidelity or seek to strengthen your commitment in a relationship, these verses offer valuable insights.
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Bible Verses About Infidelity
Proverbs 6:32
“But a man who commits adultery has no sense; whoever does so destroys himself.”
This verse emphasizes the destructive consequences of committing adultery. It conveys a warning about the lack of wisdom and understanding exhibited by those who engage in infidelity. Adultery not only harms others involved but also brings about personal ruin and devastation.
Matthew 5:27-28
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
Jesus goes beyond the act of physical adultery and highlights the importance of purity of heart. He teaches that even entertaining lustful thoughts is equivalent to committing adultery in God’s eyes. This verse emphasizes the significance of guarding our thoughts and motives, as they greatly impact our actions.
1 Corinthians 6:18
“Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.”
Paul urges believers to run away from sexual immorality, recognizing its unique impact on the body. This verse reminds us that indulging in sexual sin not only offends God but also undermines our own physical and spiritual well-being. It emphasizes the need for self-control and honoring God with our bodies.
Proverbs 5:15-17
“Drink water from your own cistern, running water from your own well. Should your springs overflow in the streets, your streams of water in the public squares? Let them be yours alone, never to be shared with strangers.”
This metaphorical passage advises individuals to find fulfillment and satisfaction within the boundaries of their own relationships. It emphasizes the importance of marital faithfulness and warns against seeking pleasure from outside sources. The imagery conveys the idea of safeguarding intimacy and keeping it exclusive within the marriage relationship.
Hebrews 13:4
“Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.”
This verse emphasizes the sacredness of marriage and the need to preserve marital faithfulness. It emphasizes the importance of honoring the marital commitment and warns of God’s judgment against those who engage in adultery or any form of sexual immorality. The verse calls for reverence and respect towards the institution of marriage.
Proverbs 2:16-17
“Wisdom will save you also from the adulterous woman, from the wayward woman with her seductive words, who has left the partner of her youth and ignored the covenant she made before God.”
These verses highlight the dangers of infidelity and the allurements of a seductive person. They remind us that wisdom can protect us from falling into the trap of sexual temptation and breaking the commitments we have made before God. It encourages us to value faithfulness and not be led astray by enticing words or actions.
Proverbs 7:3-4
“Bind them [God’s commandments] on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart. Say to wisdom, ‘You are my sister,’ and to insight, ‘You are my relative.’”
This passage encourages us to internalize God’s commands and wisdom in our hearts and minds. By doing so, we can resist the temptations of infidelity. It reminds us to treat wisdom as a close relative, seeking its guidance and protection in order to remain faithful in our relationships.
Job 31:1
“I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a young woman.”
Job’s vow to maintain purity of sight showcases his commitment to righteousness. This verse teaches the importance of actively guarding our eyes, setting boundaries to avoid lustful gazes that can lead to infidelity. It highlights the necessity of personal accountability and self-control in preventing sinful thoughts and actions.
1 Thessalonians 4:3-5
“It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality; that each of you should learn to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the pagans, who do not know God.”
This verse stresses God’s desire for our sanctification and emphasizes the importance of living lives of purity, including sexual purity. It reminds us that self-control is vital in maintaining holiness and honoring God in our bodies. By resisting passionate lusts and imitating Christ’s example, we can differentiate ourselves from those who do not know God.
Proverbs 20:1
“Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.”
This proverb cautions against the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption, which can impair judgment and lead to unwise decisions, including infidelity. It encourages wisdom and self-control in our choices, reminding us to refrain from anything that can potentially lead us down a path of unfaithfulness.
1 Corinthians 10:13
“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
This verse offers encouragement and assurance that God remains faithful in helping us overcome temptations, including the temptation to commit infidelity. It reminds us that we are not alone in facing temptation, and God is always with us, providing a way to escape the allure of sin. It encourages perseverance and reliance on God’s strength in times of testing.
1 Corinthians 7:2
“But since sexual immorality is occurring, each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband.”
Paul addresses the issue of sexual immorality by emphasizing the importance of fulfilling marital duties. He encourages married couples to satisfy each other’s needs within the bounds of marriage, as it helps guard against the temptation of seeking fulfillment elsewhere. This verse stresses the significance of mutual sexual faithfulness within the marriage relationship.
Matthew 19:9
“I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.”
In this teaching, Jesus permits divorce in cases of sexual immorality. However, he also warns against entering into a new marriage after divorce, except where infidelity has taken place. This verse stresses the seriousness of adultery and reaffirms the sanctity of marriage, discouraging divorce unless there are biblical grounds for it.
Matthew 5:31-32
“It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’ But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, makes her the victim of adultery, and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.”
Jesus clarifies the issue of divorce, expressing that divorce is not justified unless it is due to sexual immorality. He emphasizes the severe consequences of divorce and warns against remarriage that results in committing adultery. This passage illustrates the high value Jesus places on the covenant of marriage and the necessity of faithfulness.
Malachi 2:16
“‘The man who hates and divorces his wife,’ says the Lord, the God of Israel, ‘does violence to the one he should protect,’ says the Lord Almighty. So be on your guard, and do not be unfaithful.”
This verse conveys God’s perspective on divorce and the harm it causes. It highlights how divorce goes against God’s original plan of unity and protection within marriage. It serves as a stern warning against unfaithfulness and encourages individuals to guard their hearts and relationships against infidelity.
Proverbs 5:18-19
“May your fountain be blessed, and may you rejoice in the wife of your youth. A loving doe, a graceful deer—may her breasts satisfy you always, may you ever be intoxicated with her love.”
These verses celebrate the joy and satisfaction found in a monogamous marital relationship. It encourages husbands to find delight and contentment in their wives, cherishing both their physical and emotional intimacy. The imagery used emphasizes the exclusive and fulfilling nature of marital love.
1 Corinthians 6:15-16
“Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ himself? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never! Do you not know that he who unites himself with a prostitute is one with her in body? For it is said, ‘The two will become one flesh.’”
Paul highlights the spiritual significance of our bodies being members of Christ. He strongly advises against any form of sexual immorality, especially with prostitutes. This passage emphasizes the sacredness of the human body and the union that takes place in sexual intimacy. Paul reminds believers of the profound implications that sexual actions can have on our spiritual connection with Christ.
Proverbs 30:20
“This is the way of an adulterous woman: She eats and wipes her mouth and says, ‘I’ve done nothing wrong.’”
This proverb sheds light on the deceptive nature of the adulterer who tries to hide their wrongdoing. It warns against the allure of superficial pleasures that can lead to unfaithfulness. It is a reminder to be cautious and discerning, recognizing the devious tactics of those who try to justify their actions and disregard the consequences of their infidelity.
1 Peter 5:8
“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
This verse serves as a reminder to remain vigilant and watchful, recognizing that Satan seeks to destroy our lives and relationships. It urges us to be cautious in guarding against the temptations of infidelity, to stay mentally clear and focused, and to resist the enemy’s schemes. It highlights the importance of spiritual warfare in resisting the destructive forces that can lead to adultery.
Ecclesiastes 7:26
“I find more bitter than death the woman who is a snare, whose heart is a trap and whose hands are chains. The man who pleases God will escape her, but the sinner she will ensnare.”
This passage emphasizes the dangers of becoming entangled in a relationship with an unfaithful and deceitful person. It serves as a warning to both men and women about the potential harm caused by entering into relationships with those who lack integrity. It encourages believers to seek God’s guidance and the wisdom to discern potential pitfalls.
Proverbs 6:25
“Do not lust in your heart after her beauty or let her captivate you with her eyes.”
This verse advises against becoming captivated by outward beauty or allowing lustful desires to take hold in our hearts. It is a reminder to exercise self-control and not be swayed by physical temptation. By focusing on matters of the heart and cultivating purity, we can guard against the pitfalls of infidelity.
1 Corinthians 6:9-10
“Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”
Paul lists various sins, including adultery, and underscores the seriousness of engaging in these actions without repentance. This verse emphasizes the eternal consequences of unrepentant sexual immorality and the importance of turning away from such behaviors. It serves as a reminder of God’s righteous standards and the need for transformation through faith in Christ.
Proverbs 6:23-24
“For this command is a lamp, this teaching is a light, and correction and instruction are the way to life, keeping you from your neighbor’s wife, from the smooth talk of a wayward woman.”
These verses highlight the value of God’s commandments and teachings as a guiding light. They emphasize how wisdom, correction, and instruction can protect us from the snares of temptation, including the seductive words of a wayward person. These verses encourage us to diligently follow God’s word to avoid the destructive path of infidelity.
Proverbs 6:26
“For a prostitute can be had for a loaf of bread, but another man’s wife preys on your very life.”
This proverb underscores the grave consequences of being involved with another man’s wife. It emphasizes the severity of the betrayal and the destructive impact it can have on one’s life. The verse serves as a powerful deterrent against engaging in infidelity that can cause irreparable harm to all parties involved.
Hebrews 13:4
“Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral.”
This verse emphasizes the sacredness of marriage and the need to preserve marital faithfulness. It emphasizes the importance of honoring the marital commitment and warns of God’s judgment against those who engage in adultery or any form of sexual immorality. The verse calls for reverence and respect towards the institution of marriage.
What Does the Bible Say About Infidelity?
In seeking guidance from the Bible on the matter of infidelity, we discover several key principles and teachings that can help us understand God’s perspective on this issue.
- Adultery is Forbidden: The Bible explicitly condemns adultery, which is the act of being sexually unfaithful to one’s spouse. One of the Ten Commandments states, “You shall not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14, ESV). This commandment underscores the sacredness of the marital covenant and the importance of fidelity within marriage.
- Lustful Thoughts are Equated with Adultery: In the teachings of Jesus, He emphasized that even entertaining lustful thoughts about someone other than your spouse is a form of adultery. He said, “But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (Matthew 5:28, ESV). This underscores the significance of purity not only in actions but also in our thoughts and desires.
- Consequences of Adultery: The Bible also warns about the severe consequences of adultery. Proverbs 6:32-33 (ESV) states, “He who commits adultery lacks sense; he who does it destroys himself. He will get wounds and dishonor, and his disgrace will not be wiped away.” Adultery can lead to broken relationships, emotional pain, and lasting damage.
- God’s Design for Marriage: The Bible teaches that marriage is a sacred covenant established by God. In Genesis 2:24 (ESV), it says, “Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh.” This verse emphasizes the unity and exclusivity of the marital relationship.
- Forgiveness and Restoration: While the Bible is clear about the sinfulness of adultery, it also encourages forgiveness and reconciliation in the face of repentance. The story of the adulterous woman brought before Jesus in John 8:1-11 demonstrates His compassion and willingness to forgive, while also urging her to “go and sin no more.”
- Avoidance of Temptation: To prevent infidelity, the Bible advises us to guard our hearts and avoid situations that could lead to temptation. Proverbs 4:23 (ESV) says, “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.”
In summary, the Bible unequivocally condemns adultery and emphasizes the sanctity of marriage. It calls for faithfulness not only in actions but also in thoughts and desires. While it warns of the consequences of infidelity, it also extends the offer of forgiveness and restoration to those who repent. Ultimately, seeking God’s guidance and relying on His grace can help us maintain fidelity within our marriages and relationships.