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Can the sin of adultery be forgiven?


Introduction. Moichos (Greek word for "adultery") is defined as, "...unlawful intercourse with the spouse of another" (Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words, Vol. 1, pg. 32). Fornication (porneia) is illicit sexual intercourse in general (Ibid, Vol. 2, pg. 125). Adultery is a specific for the more generic fornication. Sometimes these two words are used interchangeably (cf. Matt. 5: 32; 19: 9).

Adultery is a terrible sin. All sin is horrible (Rom. 6: 23), but some sins are more injurious to innocent people. The innocent husband or wife is severely traumatized by an unfaithful mate. Children suffer because of the marital problems caused by adultery. Society is falling apart, largely because of the deterioration of the family - adultery is often the cause.

Adultery can be forgiven. There are two areas to be explored in answering our question. There is God and there is the mate who has been sinned against (Mk. 10: 11). God will forgive the repentant adulterer. God forgave the Corinthians, some of whom had been adulterers (1 Cor. 6: 9-11). The sinned against mate is also to forgive them if they are repentant. However, I am persuaded the wronged mate still has the right to put away/divorce their unfaithful spouse, especially in certain circumstances (Matt. 19:9).

And adulterous marriages? Often some argue "if adultery can be forgiven, then unscriptural marriages may be continued." While we without hesitation affirm adultery can be forgiven, we just as certainly affirm such forgiveness does not mean adulterous marriages are allowed to continue. Jesus said they commit adultery (Matt. 5: 32, 19: 9). "Commit adultery" is from the Greek moichatai and is in the present tense, indicating ongoing action. In other words, they continue to commit adultery as long as they actively remain in the relationship.
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