Deuteronomy 5:18

Afrikaans 1933/1953

What Does This Mean?

This verse is part of the Ten Commandments, and it teaches that people should not have sexual relations outside of marriage. God is speaking to the Israelites, emphasizing the importance of maintaining purity and respect within relationships.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a special toy that only you and your best friend can play with. This verse is like that - it tells us that the special feelings we have in a marriage are meant to be kept between the married couple, just like your special toy.

Historical Background

Moses delivered the Ten Commandments to the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt, around 1200 BCE. The context was a nomadic people in the process of establishing their identity and societal norms, with the covenant with God at the core.

Living It Out Today

In today's world, this commandment reminds us of the importance of fidelity in relationships. For example, if someone is married, they should not engage in romantic or physical relationships with others, as this can hurt their spouse and violate the trust in the marriage.

Topics

marriagefaithfulnessmoralityrelationshipspuritycommandments

Related Verses

Exodus 20:14Matthew 5:27-28Romans 13:9Hebrews 13:4Ephesians 5:3

Frequently Asked Questions

What does adultery mean?
Adultery refers to sexual relations between a married person and someone who is not their spouse. It is considered a violation of trust and fidelity in marriage.
Why is adultery considered a sin?
Adultery is considered a sin because it breaks the covenant of trust and love between spouses, and it goes against God's design for relationships as expressed in the Ten Commandments.
How can we apply this commandment in today's world?
In today's world, we can apply this commandment by ensuring fidelity and trust in our marriages and romantic relationships, and by respecting the boundaries and commitments we make to our partners.
Are there any exceptions to this rule?
No exceptions are mentioned in the Bible. Adultery is consistently portrayed as a sin throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness in marriage.
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