Thou Shall Not Commit Adultrey
A Reflection on Love, Purity, and Growing Closer to Christ: The Sixth Commandment
The Sixth Commandment, “thou shalt not commit adultery,” whispers a profound truth: God designed intimacy to be a beautiful expression of love, a sacred dance between two souls. It goes beyond the physical act, calling us to a deeper commitment – a commitment to build a life woven with trust, respect, and unwavering love.
This commandment isn’t a burden, but a compass. It steers us away from the shallow waters of fleeting desires and guides us towards the deep, life-giving wellspring of true intimacy.
Sins Against the Sixth Commandment:
When we stray from this path, we encounter the shadows. Lustful thoughts, infidelity, and disrespect all chip away at the foundation of trust and love. Pornography becomes a distorted mirror, warping our perception of true intimacy. Flirting or emotional affairs can leave a trail of heartache, even if they don’t progress further. These are all ways we fall short of the loving connection God desires for us.
Following the Sixth Commandment: A Path to Deeper Connection with Jesus
But the good news is, choosing to follow the Sixth Commandment isn’t just about avoiding these shadows. It’s a powerful step towards drawing closer to Jesus. How?
- Living with Integrity: By cultivating inner purity and honoring our commitments, we reflect God’s own faithfulness. This integrity allows us to approach Jesus with a clear conscience and an open heart.
- Practicing Self-Control: Choosing self-control over fleeting desires demonstrates a willingness to grow and become a better person. This dedication to self-improvement aligns with Jesus’ teachings on discipline and living according to God’s will.
- Nurturing True Intimacy: The Sixth Commandment encourages us to cultivate genuine intimacy within our marriages. This requires vulnerability, honest communication, and a focus on building a deep emotional connection. In this way, we model the love Jesus has for his Church.
- Expanding Our Capacity for Love: By practicing faithfulness and commitment, we strengthen our capacity for love in all areas of life. This overflows into our relationships with family, friends, and even strangers. This expansive love mirrors the unconditional love Jesus offers us.
Following the Sixth Commandment isn’t about restriction, but about liberation. It liberates us from the shallow and fleeting, guiding us towards the rich and fulfilling depths of true love and intimacy. And in this journey, we move closer to Jesus, experiencing the fullness of the love he offers us and the love we can share with others.
Sharing
Jesus last words on Earth were to his disciples, can be found in Matthew Chap 28 when Jesus told his disciples, “Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
Jesus calls all of us to share in his redemptive mission here on Earth. I would ask you to share this Scripture reflection with your family, your friends and your acquaintances, and then share it with a couple of individuals that you may may not be comfortable sharing with, keeping in mind always the words of Jesus, And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age
Author was assisted by AI in the