Thou Shall Not Commit Adultery
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that the Sixth Commandment, “thou shalt not commit adultery,” goes beyond just physical infidelity [CCC 2336]. Here are some key points:
Meaning
- God’s Plan for Sexuality: Human sexuality is seen as a good gift from God, reflecting God’s own love [CCC 2331].
- Fidelity and Unity: Marriage is understood as a sacred union between a man and woman, reflecting God’s love as one [CCC 2331]. Adultery breaks this trust and unity.
- Inner Purity: Jesus emphasizes that even lustful desires are sinful [CCC 2336]. True faithfulness involves both body and heart.
- Respecting Commitments: Adultery is seen as an injustice because it breaks the promises made in marriage [CCC 2381].
- Impact on Others: The Catechism acknowledges the harm adultery can cause to the spouse, children, and the institution of marriage itself [CCC 2381].
Overall, the Catechism emphasizes that the Sixth Commandment is about protecting the sacred nature of marriage and promoting a life of love, faithfulness, and inner purity.
Following the Sixth Commandment
The Sixth Commandment, “thou shalt not commit adultery,” can be followed in several ways, both within and outside of marriage:
For Everyone:
- Purity of Thoughts and Desires: The Catechism emphasizes that even lustful thoughts and desires are sinful [CCC 2336]. Cultivating self-control and avoiding situations that could lead to temptation is important.
- Respecting Others: Treat everyone with dignity and respect, regardless of marital status. Avoid flirting, inappropriate comments, or behaviors that could be seen as disrespectful.
- Honesty and Communication: Open and honest communication is essential in any relationship. If you are attracted to someone outside your marriage, address it with your spouse or seek professional help.
For Married Couples:
- Fidelity: Remaining faithful to your spouse physically and emotionally is the cornerstone of a strong marriage.
- Intimacy: Nurturing physical and emotional intimacy with your spouse is crucial. This can involve regular date nights, open communication about needs and desires, and prioritizing quality time together.
- Commitment: Remember the vows you made during your wedding ceremony. Marriage requires commitment and effort, even during challenging times.
- Forgiveness: Everyone makes mistakes. Be willing to forgive your spouse for minor transgressions and work together to overcome challenges.
Additional Resources:
- The Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC]: You can find the text of the Catechism online or in a Catholic bookstore. The specific sections related to the Sixth Commandment are 2331-2336 and 2381.
- Your Religious Leader: Talking to a priest, pastor, or other religious leader can provide guidance and support in following the Sixth Commandment.
- Marriage Counseling: If you are struggling in your marriage, consider seeking professional help from a qualified therapist.
Remember, following the Sixth Commandment is about more than just avoiding adultery. It’s about honoring God’s gift of sexuality, building strong and lasting relationships, and living a life of love and commitment.
Sins Against the Sixth Commandment
The Sixth Commandment, “thou shalt not commit adultery,” is about more than just physical infidelity. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that it extends to protect the sacred nature of marriage and inner purity. Here are some of the sins that would be considered offenses against the Sixth Commandment:
- Adultery: This is sexual intercourse between a married person and someone other than their spouse.
- Fornication: Sexual intercourse between two unmarried people.
- Lustful Thoughts and Desires: Even harboring these thoughts is seen as sinful according to the Catechism [CCC 2336].
- Pornography and Immodesty: These can fuel lustful desires and disrespect God’s gift of sexuality.
- Prostitution: This involves exchanging sexual acts for money or other forms of payment.
- Self-abuse (Masturbation): The Catechism teaches this goes against the purpose of God’s plan for sexuality, which is to be expressed within the context of marriage [CCC 2351].
It’s important to remember that these are general guidelines. If you have specific questions or concerns, it’s always best to consult with a religious leader or trusted spiritual advisor. They can provide guidance based on your particular situation and beliefs.
Fostering Intimacy with Jesus
Following the Sixth Commandment, which goes beyond just physical actions, can help you grow in intimacy with Jesus in a few ways:
- Living a Life Aligned with God’s Will: By honoring the sacredness of marriage and inner purity, you’re living a life that reflects God’s teachings on love, commitment, and self-control. This brings you closer to living according to God’s will, strengthening your connection with him.
- Openness and Authenticity: When you avoid lustful thoughts and actions, you cultivate a more honest and open relationship with yourself and with God. This allows you to approach Jesus with a clear conscience and a more authentic sense of self, fostering deeper intimacy.
- Focus on Inner Purity: The Sixth Commandment emphasizes the importance of inner purity, not just outward actions. By striving for control over your thoughts and desires, you demonstrate a willingness to work on your character and become a better person. This dedication to self-improvement can be seen as a way to honor God and move closer to him.
- Greater Capacity for Love: Following the Sixth Commandment encourages faithfulness and commitment, which are essential qualities for any loving relationship. By practicing these qualities, you cultivate a deeper capacity for love in all aspects of your life, including your love for God.
- Humility and Reliance on God: Recognizing the importance of God’s grace in overcoming temptation fosters humility. You come to rely on God’s strength to stay on the right path, deepening your dependence on him and strengthening your connection.
Remember, intimacy with Jesus is a journey, not a destination. Following the Sixth Commandment is one way to demonstrate your commitment to living a Christ-like life and growing closer to him.
Examining Your Conscience on the Six Commandment
Here are some questions you can ask yourself in an examination of conscience with regard to the Sixth Commandment:
Thoughts and Desires:
- Have I entertained lustful thoughts or desires about someone who is not my spouse?
- Have I indulged in pornography or other forms of media that promote sexual promiscuity?
- Have I allowed myself to fall into situations where I knew I might be tempted to act inappropriately?
Words and Actions:
- Have I engaged in flirtatious behavior with someone who is not my spouse?
- Have I told inappropriate jokes or made suggestive comments?
- Have I dressed immodestly in a way that could be seen as inviting attention?
- Have I been emotionally distant or neglectful in my relationship with my spouse?
Honesty and Commitment:
- Have I been honest and open with my spouse about my thoughts and feelings?
- Have I kept my wedding vows, both physically and emotionally?
- Have I been willing to put in the effort to nurture and strengthen my marriage?
- Have I allowed myself to compare my marriage to others in an unhealthy way?
General:
- Have I been judgmental towards others who have struggled with sexual sin?
- Have I sought forgiveness and God’s grace when I have fallen short?
- Do I strive to live a life of purity and self-control?
- Do I approach others with respect and dignity, regardless of their marital status?
Remember:
- These are just a guide, and the specific questions you ask yourself will depend on your own circumstances.
- Be honest with yourself, but also approach this process with self-compassion.
- If you are struggling with significant temptations or concerns, consider seeking guidance from a trusted spiritual advisor or therapist.
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