Robert Jeffress - The Seventh Commandment - Keep Marriage Holy (Part 2)

June 15, 2026 | 27:29

Pathway to Victory provides practical application of God’s Word to everyday life through clear, Biblical teaching.

Closed captions

Show Timecode
Dr. Robert Jeffress | Robert Jeffress - The Seventh Commandment - Keep Marriage Holy (Part 2) | June 15, 2026
  • ♪ music ♪
  • 00:00:01.147 --> 00:00:07.220
  • From the pulpit
  • 00:00:07.587 --> 00:00:08.855
  • Of the first baptist church of dallas, texas,
  • 00:00:08.855 --> 00:00:10.924
  • This is "pathway to victory" with dr. robert jeffress.
  • 00:00:10.924 --> 00:00:14.994
  • Hi, i'm robert jeffress
  • 00:00:15.495 --> 00:00:16.796
  • And welcome again to "pathway to victory."
  • 00:00:16.796 --> 00:00:19.265
  • Most of us can imagine the devastating risk
  • 00:00:19.265 --> 00:00:21.935
  • And consequences that come with committing adultery.
  • 00:00:21.935 --> 00:00:25.638
  • Yet despite these warning signs,
  • 00:00:25.638 --> 00:00:27.607
  • Men and women continue to step outside the limits
  • 00:00:27.607 --> 00:00:30.910
  • Of their marriage covenant.
  • 00:00:30.910 --> 00:00:32.812
  • Today we're going to discover what we can do
  • 00:00:32.812 --> 00:00:35.381
  • To resist the temptation of adultery.
  • 00:00:35.381 --> 00:00:38.651
  • My message is titled
  • 00:00:38.651 --> 00:00:40.120
  • "the seventh commandment: keep marriage holy."
  • 00:00:40.120 --> 00:00:43.990
  • On today's edition of "pathway to victory,"
  • 00:00:43.990 --> 00:00:47.160
  • ♪ music ♪
  • 00:00:47.160 --> 00:00:48.194
  • ♪ and then those that remain ♪
  • 00:00:48.194 --> 00:00:54.134
  • ♪ shall be quickly changed ♪
  • 00:00:54.767 --> 00:01:02.275
  • ♪ at the midnight cry ♪
  • 00:01:02.809 --> 00:01:07.680
  • ♪ when jesus comes again ♪
  • 00:01:04.310 --> 00:01:33.506
  • ♪ i look around me ♪
  • 00:01:34.007 --> 00:01:37.610
  • ♪ i see prophecies fulfilled ♪
  • 00:01:37.610 --> 00:01:44.217
  • ♪ oh, and signs of the times ♪
  • 00:01:44.884 --> 00:01:50.890
  • ♪ they're appearing everywhere ♪
  • 00:01:51.558 --> 00:01:57.530
  • ♪ i can almost hear the father ♪
  • 00:01:58.198 --> 00:02:03.803
  • ♪ as he says, "son, go get the children" ♪
  • 00:02:04.737 --> 00:02:12.011
  • -♪ at the midnight cry ♪ -♪ at the midnight cry ♪
  • 00:02:13.079 --> 00:02:14.914
  • ♪ at the midnight cry ♪
  • 00:02:14.914 --> 00:02:18.017
  • ♪ when jesus comes again ♪
  • 00:02:18.017 --> 00:02:24.090
  • ♪ and then those that remain ♪
  • 00:02:24.757 --> 00:02:31.064
  • ♪ shall be quickly changed ♪
  • 00:02:31.698 --> 00:02:38.671
  • -♪ at the midnight cry ♪ -♪ at the midnight cry ♪
  • 00:02:39.739 --> 00:02:41.407
  • ♪ at the midnight cry ♪
  • 00:02:41.407 --> 00:02:44.644
  • -♪ when jesus comes again ♪ -♪ when jesus comes again ♪
  • 00:02:44.644 --> 00:02:52.085
  • -♪ at the midnight cry ♪ -♪ at the midnight cry ♪
  • 00:02:53.152 --> 00:02:54.954
  • ♪ at the midnight cry ♪
  • 00:02:54.954 --> 00:02:58.091
  • ♪ when jesus comes again ♪
  • 00:02:58.091 --> 00:03:04.964
  • ♪ comes again ♪
  • 00:03:05.365 --> 00:03:18.144
  • (applause)
  • 00:03:18.444 --> 00:03:22.248
  • Before today's program begins,
  • 00:03:22.882 --> 00:03:24.817
  • I want to invite you to join me
  • 00:03:24.817 --> 00:03:26.319
  • For a special message about america's future.
  • 00:03:26.319 --> 00:03:29.822
  • Our nation is celebrating 250 years,
  • 00:03:29.822 --> 00:03:32.959
  • But can we survive 250 more?
  • 00:03:32.959 --> 00:03:36.029
  • Mark your calendar for june 21st and june 28th
  • 00:03:36.029 --> 00:03:39.999
  • To hear this timely message,
  • 00:03:39.999 --> 00:03:41.934
  • "america at the crossroads:
  • 00:03:41.934 --> 00:03:44.237
  • Can we survive another 250 years?"
  • 00:03:44.237 --> 00:03:47.940
  • On "pathway to victory."
  • 00:03:47.940 --> 00:03:50.943
  • As our nation marks 250 years,
  • 00:03:51.577 --> 00:03:54.147
  • America stands at a crossroads.
  • 00:03:54.147 --> 00:03:56.449
  • Will we return to the god who blessed us
  • 00:03:56.449 --> 00:03:58.885
  • Or continue down a path that leads to ruin?
  • 00:03:58.885 --> 00:04:01.387
  • Through the in god we trust matching challenge,
  • 00:04:01.387 --> 00:04:03.956
  • Your gift today will be doubled in ministry impact.
  • 00:04:03.956 --> 00:04:06.959
  • For 30 years, "pathway to victory"
  • 00:04:06.959 --> 00:04:09.062
  • Has pierced the darkness of our nation
  • 00:04:09.062 --> 00:04:11.030
  • With the light of god's word
  • 00:04:11.030 --> 00:04:12.465
  • By sharing biblical truth that transforms hearts.
  • 00:04:12.465 --> 00:04:15.768
  • Join us in this critical hour by giving toward
  • 00:04:15.768 --> 00:04:18.504
  • The in god we trust matching challenge today.
  • 00:04:18.504 --> 00:04:22.075
  • ♪ music ♪
  • 00:04:22.075 --> 00:04:29.615
  • When we commit adultery,
  • 00:04:30.116 --> 00:04:31.651
  • We're also sinning against our sexual partner.
  • 00:04:31.651 --> 00:04:35.321
  • We're forcing them to become an accomplice
  • 00:04:35.321 --> 00:04:38.858
  • To every crime we just talked about.
  • 00:04:38.858 --> 00:04:41.327
  • They're sinning against themselves, against their god,
  • 00:04:41.327 --> 00:04:44.764
  • And against their mate if they're married.
  • 00:04:44.764 --> 00:04:47.300
  • It starts with mental adultery.
  • 00:04:47.934 --> 00:04:50.937
  • Then there is physical adultery.
  • 00:04:50.937 --> 00:04:53.072
  • And finally, james says in verse 15, there is death.
  • 00:04:53.072 --> 00:04:57.410
  • When sin is accomplished, it brings forth death.
  • 00:04:57.410 --> 00:05:01.247
  • What does he mean, "death"?
  • 00:05:01.247 --> 00:05:02.448
  • Well, there's a general sense
  • 00:05:02.448 --> 00:05:03.783
  • In which all sin ends up in physical death.
  • 00:05:03.783 --> 00:05:07.086
  • The reason we die is because we've inherited the sin virus.
  • 00:05:07.086 --> 00:05:11.591
  • But i think he's talking about something more here.
  • 00:05:11.591 --> 00:05:14.394
  • Sin destroys everything important to us,
  • 00:05:14.394 --> 00:05:18.064
  • And i can see from my own experience as a pastor
  • 00:05:18.064 --> 00:05:21.200
  • How adultery can destroy a marriage.
  • 00:05:21.200 --> 00:05:23.636
  • It destroys a family. it destroys a career.
  • 00:05:23.636 --> 00:05:26.172
  • It destroys a reputation. it can destroy your ministry.
  • 00:05:26.172 --> 00:05:29.575
  • It destroys everything that is valuable to us.
  • 00:05:29.575 --> 00:05:33.813
  • And that's why there's so many warnings about adultery.
  • 00:05:33.813 --> 00:05:36.816
  • Solomon, why he focused on this,
  • 00:05:36.816 --> 00:05:39.485
  • He experienced the effects of adultery
  • 00:05:39.485 --> 00:05:42.455
  • With his dad, king david,
  • 00:05:42.455 --> 00:05:44.557
  • And the heartache it brought to david.
  • 00:05:44.557 --> 00:05:46.459
  • He experienced it in his own life as well.
  • 00:05:46.459 --> 00:05:49.796
  • Just listen to some of these warnings.
  • 00:05:49.796 --> 00:05:51.564
  • Proverbs 6:25-26: do not desire her beauty in your heart,
  • 00:05:51.564 --> 00:05:56.903
  • Nor let her capture you with her eyelids.
  • 00:05:57.804 --> 00:06:00.506
  • For on account of a harlot,
  • 00:06:00.506 --> 00:06:02.608
  • One is reduced to a loaf of bread.
  • 00:06:02.608 --> 00:06:05.778
  • And an adulteress hunts for the precious life.
  • 00:06:05.778 --> 00:06:08.714
  • If you ever talk to anybody
  • 00:06:08.714 --> 00:06:09.982
  • Having to pay alimony or child support,
  • 00:06:09.982 --> 00:06:13.386
  • Or having to divide their household,
  • 00:06:13.386 --> 00:06:15.988
  • They'll tell you what it means
  • 00:06:15.988 --> 00:06:17.123
  • To be reduced to a loaf of bread.
  • 00:06:17.123 --> 00:06:19.559
  • Proverbs 6:27-29: can a man take fire
  • 00:06:19.559 --> 00:06:23.162
  • To his bosom and his clothes not be burned?
  • 00:06:23.162 --> 00:06:25.765
  • This is something you can't play around with.
  • 00:06:25.765 --> 00:06:28.234
  • Can a man walk on hot coals and his feet not be scorched?
  • 00:06:28.234 --> 00:06:31.871
  • So is the one who goes into his neighbor's wife.
  • 00:06:31.871 --> 00:06:35.274
  • Whoever touches her will not go unpunished.
  • 00:06:35.274 --> 00:06:39.045
  • Or here's one that's just as blunt as you can get.
  • 00:06:39.045 --> 00:06:41.314
  • Proverbs 6:32-33:
  • 00:06:41.314 --> 00:06:43.916
  • The one who commits adultery has no sense.
  • 00:06:43.916 --> 00:06:47.587
  • He who would destroy himself does it,
  • 00:06:47.587 --> 00:06:50.389
  • Disgraces his lot, and his shame will never be wiped away.
  • 00:06:50.389 --> 00:06:55.661
  • One more warning and a note of hope.
  • 00:06:56.462 --> 00:06:58.731
  • Ecclesiastes 7:26:
  • 00:06:58.731 --> 00:07:01.167
  • I discovered more bitter than death is the adulterous woman
  • 00:07:01.167 --> 00:07:06.038
  • Whose heart is snared and whose hands are chained,
  • 00:07:06.038 --> 00:07:10.343
  • But one who is pleasing to god will escape from her,
  • 00:07:10.343 --> 00:07:15.147
  • But the sinner will be captured by her.
  • 00:07:15.147 --> 00:07:18.451
  • If you're a believer, adultery isn't inevitable.
  • 00:07:18.451 --> 00:07:22.688
  • There is a way to escape from that sin,
  • 00:07:22.688 --> 00:07:27.159
  • But you have to be intentional to do so.
  • 00:07:27.159 --> 00:07:30.196
  • How do you avoid the devastating sin of adultery?
  • 00:07:30.196 --> 00:07:34.700
  • Solomon said the key is proverbs 4:23.
  • 00:07:34.700 --> 00:07:38.237
  • He wrote: watch over your heart with all diligence,
  • 00:07:38.237 --> 00:07:43.576
  • For out of your heart flow the issues, the springs of life.
  • 00:07:44.744 --> 00:07:48.981
  • You have to understand, in the hebrew mind,
  • 00:07:49.882 --> 00:07:53.052
  • The heart was not the center of emotion.
  • 00:07:53.052 --> 00:07:56.689
  • You know, today we think of hearts, valentine's day,
  • 00:07:56.689 --> 00:07:59.191
  • It's a feeling that you have,
  • 00:07:59.191 --> 00:08:01.227
  • But that wasn't the way the hebrews thought of it.
  • 00:08:01.227 --> 00:08:03.162
  • So the hebrews, the seed of emotion wasn't the heart,
  • 00:08:03.162 --> 00:08:06.666
  • But the bowels, the intestines.
  • 00:08:06.666 --> 00:08:10.269
  • That's where you felt things deeply.
  • 00:08:10.269 --> 00:08:13.072
  • The heart was the center of thought. it was the mind.
  • 00:08:13.072 --> 00:08:16.742
  • That's why proverbs says, "as a man thinks in his," what?
  • 00:08:16.742 --> 00:08:21.213
  • Heart.
  • 00:08:21.213 --> 00:08:22.348
  • That's what we think with our heart.
  • 00:08:22.348 --> 00:08:23.716
  • So is he.
  • 00:08:23.716 --> 00:08:25.017
  • So when solomon says, "watch over your heart,"
  • 00:08:25.017 --> 00:08:27.553
  • He's not just talking about your affections,
  • 00:08:27.553 --> 00:08:29.322
  • He's talking about your mind.
  • 00:08:29.322 --> 00:08:31.390
  • That's where it all starts.
  • 00:08:31.390 --> 00:08:33.859
  • I want to suggest today there are five sentries,
  • 00:08:33.859 --> 00:08:37.797
  • Five soldiers that you ought to employ to guard your heart,
  • 00:08:37.797 --> 00:08:42.401
  • Your mind, to protect you from adultery.
  • 00:08:42.401 --> 00:08:45.471
  • First of all, your eyes.
  • 00:08:45.471 --> 00:08:48.174
  • Make a covenant with your eyes.
  • 00:08:48.174 --> 00:08:52.111
  • You remember in our series "18 minutes with jesus,"
  • 00:08:52.111 --> 00:08:54.981
  • I said that adultery in the bed
  • 00:08:54.981 --> 00:08:57.183
  • Begins with adultery in the head.
  • 00:08:57.183 --> 00:08:59.919
  • But it really goes back farther than that.
  • 00:08:59.919 --> 00:09:01.754
  • It actually begins not in the mind, it begins with the eyes.
  • 00:09:01.754 --> 00:09:06.025
  • Matthew 5:28: jesus said, "i say to you that everyone
  • 00:09:06.025 --> 00:09:09.362
  • Who looks at a woman with lust for her
  • 00:09:09.362 --> 00:09:12.331
  • Has already committed adultery with her in his heart."
  • 00:09:12.331 --> 00:09:16.602
  • It's not just looking at another person,
  • 00:09:16.602 --> 00:09:19.205
  • It's gazing at another person, staring at another person,
  • 00:09:19.205 --> 00:09:24.043
  • Thinking about them,
  • 00:09:24.043 --> 00:09:25.811
  • Performing a mental undressing of the other person,
  • 00:09:25.811 --> 00:09:29.248
  • An imagined seduction and intercourse.
  • 00:09:29.248 --> 00:09:32.084
  • That's what it means to lust after another person.
  • 00:09:32.084 --> 00:09:35.721
  • And do that long enough and often enough,
  • 00:09:35.721 --> 00:09:38.090
  • It's going to result in a physical act of adultery.
  • 00:09:38.090 --> 00:09:41.427
  • And that's why job said in job 31:1:
  • 00:09:41.427 --> 00:09:45.197
  • I made a covenant with my eyes
  • 00:09:45.197 --> 00:09:48.234
  • Not to look lustfully to women.
  • 00:09:48.234 --> 00:09:50.636
  • Begin with a simple agreement he had.
  • 00:09:50.636 --> 00:09:53.039
  • I am not going to look lustfully at another person.
  • 00:09:53.039 --> 00:09:56.409
  • He's not saying he's not going to glance at another woman.
  • 00:09:57.576 --> 00:09:59.612
  • You can't not do that.
  • 00:09:59.612 --> 00:10:02.014
  • But you can refuse to gaze
  • 00:10:02.014 --> 00:10:04.750
  • And involve in those lustful thoughts.
  • 00:10:04.750 --> 00:10:07.353
  • And by the way,
  • 00:10:07.353 --> 00:10:08.654
  • The person doesn't have to be there in person.
  • 00:10:08.654 --> 00:10:10.589
  • You can lust after somebody in your imagination.
  • 00:10:10.589 --> 00:10:13.392
  • You can lust after somebody
  • 00:10:13.392 --> 00:10:15.528
  • After looking at pornography or a movie or television.
  • 00:10:15.528 --> 00:10:19.598
  • He said, "i'm not going to allow my eyes
  • 00:10:19.598 --> 00:10:22.768
  • To look continually at another woman."
  • 00:10:22.768 --> 00:10:25.905
  • The second sentry, guard, to place it your mind
  • 00:10:25.905 --> 00:10:29.075
  • Is to avoid compromising company.
  • 00:10:29.075 --> 00:10:32.978
  • Avoid compromising company.
  • 00:10:32.978 --> 00:10:35.815
  • Remember 1 corinthians 15:33:
  • 00:10:35.815 --> 00:10:38.150
  • Do not be deceived, bad company corrupts good morals.
  • 00:10:38.150 --> 00:10:43.489
  • Remember that, bad company corrupts good morals.
  • 00:10:44.490 --> 00:10:48.360
  • Do you remember my illustration of that?
  • 00:10:48.360 --> 00:10:50.463
  • I got it from somebody else, but it's a great illustration.
  • 00:10:50.463 --> 00:10:54.100
  • If it's raining outside,
  • 00:10:54.100 --> 00:10:55.568
  • You decide to go out and work in your flower bed,
  • 00:10:55.568 --> 00:10:58.304
  • And you put some white gloves on, what's going to happen?
  • 00:10:58.304 --> 00:11:01.741
  • Your white gloves are going to get muddy, right?
  • 00:11:02.742 --> 00:11:05.778
  • Never in a thousand years
  • 00:11:06.345 --> 00:11:09.248
  • Will the mud become more glovey.
  • 00:11:09.248 --> 00:11:11.684
  • It doesn't work that way.
  • 00:11:11.684 --> 00:11:13.919
  • The mud doesn't become glovey, but the glove becomes muddy.
  • 00:11:13.919 --> 00:11:17.923
  • It's the same way with hanging around sinners.
  • 00:11:17.923 --> 00:11:21.127
  • They rub off on you.
  • 00:11:21.127 --> 00:11:23.162
  • Especially immoral people,
  • 00:11:23.162 --> 00:11:24.897
  • People who are engaged in adultery or fornication,
  • 00:11:24.897 --> 00:11:29.401
  • People who talk about it, people who joke about it.
  • 00:11:29.401 --> 00:11:32.271
  • I think that's what paul has in mind.
  • 00:11:32.271 --> 00:11:34.473
  • Bad company corrupts good morals.
  • 00:11:34.473 --> 00:11:36.408
  • But may i extend that to say,
  • 00:11:36.408 --> 00:11:39.278
  • Bad company for you
  • 00:11:39.745 --> 00:11:41.147
  • May be somebody who's just a temptation to you.
  • 00:11:41.147 --> 00:11:45.117
  • There's something about them that attracts you to them.
  • 00:11:45.117 --> 00:11:48.354
  • It may be somebody at work,
  • 00:11:48.354 --> 00:11:49.989
  • And you look for every excuse you can
  • 00:11:49.989 --> 00:11:52.191
  • To go by that person's cubicle and talk with 'em,
  • 00:11:52.191 --> 00:11:55.394
  • Or go to their office and so forth.
  • 00:11:55.394 --> 00:11:57.863
  • If that's true for you, need to find another path
  • 00:11:57.863 --> 00:12:00.833
  • To the coffee room or the copying room.
  • 00:12:00.833 --> 00:12:04.136
  • Maybe it's somebody who lives in your neighborhood
  • 00:12:04.136 --> 00:12:06.272
  • And you figure it out when it is they get home
  • 00:12:06.272 --> 00:12:08.607
  • Or when they're working out in the yard,
  • 00:12:08.607 --> 00:12:10.709
  • And you time your arrival
  • 00:12:10.709 --> 00:12:12.111
  • And drive slowly by to get a look at them.
  • 00:12:12.111 --> 00:12:15.314
  • Find another way home to your house from work.
  • 00:12:15.314 --> 00:12:19.518
  • Don't go the same path.
  • 00:12:19.518 --> 00:12:21.220
  • We need to avoid compromising situations.
  • 00:12:21.220 --> 00:12:24.990
  • Thirdly, be accountable for your time.
  • 00:12:24.990 --> 00:12:27.526
  • That's another guard you can place
  • 00:12:27.526 --> 00:12:29.628
  • Around your mind, your heart.
  • 00:12:29.628 --> 00:12:32.531
  • Proverbs 16:27 in the living bible says:
  • 00:12:32.531 --> 00:12:36.168
  • Idle hands are the devil's workshop.
  • 00:12:36.168 --> 00:12:39.905
  • Idle lips are his mouthpiece.
  • 00:12:39.905 --> 00:12:43.108
  • You know the problem with spare time?
  • 00:12:43.108 --> 00:12:44.677
  • It gives you time to listen to temptations
  • 00:12:44.677 --> 00:12:48.214
  • And maybe even succumb to temptations.
  • 00:12:48.214 --> 00:12:50.616
  • And by the way, that is why retirement
  • 00:12:50.616 --> 00:12:53.953
  • Can be so dangerous for people.
  • 00:12:53.953 --> 00:12:56.255
  • Suddenly they find all of this free time on their hands
  • 00:12:56.255 --> 00:13:00.492
  • That they're not accountable for.
  • 00:13:00.492 --> 00:13:02.328
  • And they engage with people
  • 00:13:02.328 --> 00:13:03.729
  • They shouldn't be engaging with on social media,
  • 00:13:03.729 --> 00:13:06.699
  • They're rekindling relationships with people they shouldn't,
  • 00:13:06.699 --> 00:13:10.703
  • And pretty soon they give in to immorality.
  • 00:13:10.703 --> 00:13:13.205
  • By the way, if you think i'm making that up,
  • 00:13:13.205 --> 00:13:15.207
  • Just look at what happened to david.
  • 00:13:15.207 --> 00:13:17.409
  • 2 samuel 11, it says:
  • 00:13:17.409 --> 00:13:20.112
  • David was at the height of his power, he's king of israel,
  • 00:13:20.112 --> 00:13:24.516
  • But instead of going out to fight with his men,
  • 00:13:24.516 --> 00:13:27.853
  • He decided, "i'm too high up the chain
  • 00:13:27.853 --> 00:13:30.122
  • To do that any longer.
  • 00:13:30.122 --> 00:13:31.690
  • I'm going to enjoy some rest and recreation, some leisure.
  • 00:13:31.690 --> 00:13:35.127
  • I'm going to kind of retire on the job," so to speak.
  • 00:13:35.127 --> 00:13:38.430
  • And so while his men were out fighting,
  • 00:13:38.430 --> 00:13:40.366
  • What was david doing?
  • 00:13:40.366 --> 00:13:41.934
  • He was in his room looking across the way
  • 00:13:41.934 --> 00:13:45.638
  • And seeing bathsheba bathing on the rooftop.
  • 00:13:45.638 --> 00:13:49.275
  • He exchanged one night of pleasure for a lifetime of misery
  • 00:13:49.275 --> 00:13:54.113
  • Because of that one night, that one mistake.
  • 00:13:54.113 --> 00:13:59.151
  • He endured a dead son, a disloyal son,
  • 00:13:59.985 --> 00:14:04.156
  • And a divided kingdom, all because of that mistake.
  • 00:14:04.156 --> 00:14:08.160
  • Make sure you are accountable for your time.
  • 00:14:08.160 --> 00:14:10.930
  • Guard your heart by watching your time.
  • 00:14:10.930 --> 00:14:14.600
  • Number four, here's another guard
  • 00:14:14.600 --> 00:14:16.435
  • Solomon says to put around your heart:
  • 00:14:16.435 --> 00:14:19.204
  • Have a fresh desire for your mate.
  • 00:14:19.204 --> 00:14:22.408
  • Let me change that word, have, to cultivate.
  • 00:14:22.408 --> 00:14:25.844
  • Cultivate a fresh desire for your mate.
  • 00:14:25.844 --> 00:14:29.648
  • Now, let me say a word to those of you who are married.
  • 00:14:30.783 --> 00:14:33.953
  • It's true for everybody,
  • 00:14:33.953 --> 00:14:35.554
  • But this is for those of you who are married.
  • 00:14:35.554 --> 00:14:37.389
  • Everybody has a desire
  • 00:14:37.389 --> 00:14:39.325
  • For sexual stimulation and fulfillment.
  • 00:14:39.325 --> 00:14:42.394
  • Everybody desires that. god made us that way.
  • 00:14:42.394 --> 00:14:46.532
  • But for those who are married, you have a choice
  • 00:14:46.532 --> 00:14:49.301
  • Of where you find that stimulation and fulfillment.
  • 00:14:49.301 --> 00:14:52.604
  • You can either find it inside the marriage
  • 00:14:52.604 --> 00:14:55.207
  • That god has given you or outside the marriage.
  • 00:14:55.207 --> 00:14:58.043
  • Your body really doesn't care where you find it.
  • 00:14:58.043 --> 00:15:01.613
  • We just had that drive.
  • 00:15:01.613 --> 00:15:03.349
  • But you decide where you're going to fulfill it.
  • 00:15:03.349 --> 00:15:05.918
  • The word of god says, why not fulfill that desire for sex
  • 00:15:05.918 --> 00:15:10.155
  • Inside the safety,
  • 00:15:10.155 --> 00:15:11.857
  • The security of the marriage relationship?
  • 00:15:11.857 --> 00:15:15.227
  • Listen to what solomon writes in proverbs 5:15-20:
  • 00:15:15.227 --> 00:15:20.499
  • Drink water from your own cistern
  • 00:15:21.166 --> 00:15:23.435
  • And fresh water from your own well.
  • 00:15:23.435 --> 00:15:26.005
  • Should your springs be dispersed abroad,
  • 00:15:26.005 --> 00:15:28.507
  • Streams of water in the streets,
  • 00:15:28.507 --> 00:15:30.776
  • Let them be yours alone and not for strangers with you.
  • 00:15:30.776 --> 00:15:35.180
  • Let your fountain be blessed
  • 00:15:35.180 --> 00:15:37.483
  • And rejoice in the life of your youth
  • 00:15:37.483 --> 00:15:40.486
  • As a loving hind and a graceful doe.
  • 00:15:40.486 --> 00:15:43.789
  • Let her breast satisfy you at all times.
  • 00:15:43.789 --> 00:15:47.993
  • Be exhilarated always with her love.
  • 00:15:47.993 --> 00:15:51.163
  • For why should you, my son,
  • 00:15:51.163 --> 00:15:53.165
  • Be exhilarated with an adulteress
  • 00:15:53.165 --> 00:15:56.101
  • And embrace the bosom of a foreigner?
  • 00:15:56.101 --> 00:16:00.105
  • Now, that's a word for all of us. that's god's wisdom.
  • 00:16:00.105 --> 00:16:04.643
  • Think about your mate.
  • 00:16:05.144 --> 00:16:06.879
  • There is something that drew you to that man or woman
  • 00:16:06.879 --> 00:16:10.783
  • And caused you to marry them.
  • 00:16:10.783 --> 00:16:13.018
  • Remind yourself of what that was,
  • 00:16:13.018 --> 00:16:15.054
  • Rekindle whatever that was,
  • 00:16:15.054 --> 00:16:17.456
  • And enjoy sexual stimulation and fulfillment
  • 00:16:17.456 --> 00:16:21.894
  • The way god said to best do it.
  • 00:16:21.894 --> 00:16:23.829
  • And that is in the marriage relationship.
  • 00:16:23.829 --> 00:16:27.499
  • Number five, what guard can you place
  • 00:16:27.499 --> 00:16:29.668
  • Around your heart and your mind?
  • 00:16:29.668 --> 00:16:31.737
  • Develop a healthy fear of god.
  • 00:16:31.737 --> 00:16:35.107
  • That's foundational, a fear of god.
  • 00:16:35.107 --> 00:16:38.110
  • Proverbs 16:6 says:
  • 00:16:38.110 --> 00:16:39.745
  • By the fear of the lord, one keeps away from evil.
  • 00:16:39.745 --> 00:16:44.583
  • A fear of god is the best reason i know to say no to sin.
  • 00:16:44.583 --> 00:16:48.754
  • Now by fear, solomon isn't talking about cowering
  • 00:16:48.754 --> 00:16:53.225
  • And being frightened like a child is,
  • 00:16:53.225 --> 00:16:56.628
  • But it does mean to have a healthy respect for god,
  • 00:16:56.628 --> 00:16:59.665
  • A respect for god, an awareness of god
  • 00:16:59.665 --> 00:17:02.701
  • In everything that you do,
  • 00:17:02.701 --> 00:17:04.970
  • Because he has better surveillance equipment
  • 00:17:04.970 --> 00:17:07.539
  • Than any government does.
  • 00:17:07.539 --> 00:17:09.508
  • He watches our every step, our every action.
  • 00:17:09.508 --> 00:17:13.145
  • And if that were not enough,
  • 00:17:13.145 --> 00:17:14.746
  • He's able to do something that government can't do.
  • 00:17:14.746 --> 00:17:17.916
  • He can judge. he can see our own motivations.
  • 00:17:17.916 --> 00:17:22.087
  • Proverbs 21:2 says: god knows every motive.
  • 00:17:22.087 --> 00:17:27.426
  • Proverbs 5:21 says: for the ways of a man
  • 00:17:28.327 --> 00:17:31.096
  • Are before the eyes of the lord,
  • 00:17:31.096 --> 00:17:33.031
  • And he watches all of his paths.
  • 00:17:33.031 --> 00:17:36.168
  • I've memorized that verse.
  • 00:17:36.168 --> 00:17:37.503
  • I think about it often.
  • 00:17:37.503 --> 00:17:39.771
  • My ways are before god. he is watching them.
  • 00:17:39.771 --> 00:17:43.709
  • And not only is he watching what i do,
  • 00:17:43.709 --> 00:17:46.011
  • He's evaluating why i'm doing it.
  • 00:17:46.011 --> 00:17:48.547
  • Proverbs 21:2 says: the lord weighs the hearts.
  • 00:17:48.547 --> 00:17:52.818
  • Hebrews 4:12 says: god's word is able
  • 00:17:52.818 --> 00:17:55.854
  • To judge the intentions of a person's heart.
  • 00:17:55.854 --> 00:17:59.358
  • Never forget, god is always watching,
  • 00:17:59.358 --> 00:18:03.095
  • He's always weighing,
  • 00:18:03.095 --> 00:18:05.697
  • And he's always evaluating our every action.
  • 00:18:05.697 --> 00:18:09.735
  • That's why we should cease from sin.
  • 00:18:09.735 --> 00:18:13.272
  • Now, we've talked about the meaning of adultery,
  • 00:18:13.272 --> 00:18:15.440
  • The progression of adultery, the avoidance of adultery.
  • 00:18:15.440 --> 00:18:19.111
  • Let me talk finally about the aftermath of adultery.
  • 00:18:19.111 --> 00:18:23.248
  • I realize i'm talking to many in this room,
  • 00:18:23.248 --> 00:18:25.551
  • Many watching this broadcast,
  • 00:18:25.551 --> 00:18:28.120
  • Your lives have been touched by adultery.
  • 00:18:28.120 --> 00:18:31.523
  • Is there any hope for a marriage
  • 00:18:31.523 --> 00:18:34.026
  • That has been attacked by adultery?
  • 00:18:34.026 --> 00:18:37.029
  • Let me say, first of all, a word to the guilty.
  • 00:18:37.029 --> 00:18:41.300
  • For those of you who are guilty of perpetrating adultery
  • 00:18:41.300 --> 00:18:45.804
  • And introducing it into your family,
  • 00:18:45.804 --> 00:18:48.774
  • Is there any hope for you?
  • 00:18:48.774 --> 00:18:51.109
  • The good news is yes.
  • 00:18:51.109 --> 00:18:53.445
  • God forgives all of our sin if we're willing to ask.
  • 00:18:53.445 --> 00:18:56.582
  • Remember colossians 2:13-14:
  • 00:18:56.582 --> 00:18:59.718
  • Having forgiven us of all our transgressions.
  • 00:18:59.718 --> 00:19:04.089
  • God doesn't just forgive little sins.
  • 00:19:04.089 --> 00:19:06.758
  • He forgives the big sins. he forgives all of our sins.
  • 00:19:06.758 --> 00:19:11.296
  • And what did he do with our transgressions?
  • 00:19:11.296 --> 00:19:13.398
  • He canceled out the certificate of debt.
  • 00:19:13.398 --> 00:19:16.068
  • Remember that? the listing of all of our offenses.
  • 00:19:16.068 --> 00:19:18.770
  • He canceled our certificate of debt
  • 00:19:18.770 --> 00:19:21.206
  • Consisting of decrees against us, which were hostile to us.
  • 00:19:21.206 --> 00:19:24.710
  • He took it out of the way. having done what?
  • 00:19:24.710 --> 00:19:27.012
  • Having nailed it to the cross of jesus christ.
  • 00:19:27.012 --> 00:19:31.383
  • When jesus said, "tetelestai," paid in full,
  • 00:19:31.383 --> 00:19:35.754
  • He included your sin of adultery.
  • 00:19:35.754 --> 00:19:39.424
  • Now, don't forget, with forgiveness comes a responsibility.
  • 00:19:39.424 --> 00:19:43.095
  • Jesus said in john 8:11,
  • 00:19:43.095 --> 00:19:44.596
  • To the woman caught in adultery,
  • 00:19:44.596 --> 00:19:46.665
  • He said, "neither do i condemn you."
  • 00:19:46.665 --> 00:19:48.967
  • But what? "go and sin no more."
  • 00:19:48.967 --> 00:19:53.405
  • Yes, you can be forgiven.
  • 00:19:53.405 --> 00:19:56.008
  • Let me say a word secondly to the innocent.
  • 00:19:56.942 --> 00:20:00.912
  • Maybe i'm talking to somebody here
  • 00:20:00.912 --> 00:20:02.781
  • Who's been a victim of adultery,
  • 00:20:02.781 --> 00:20:05.584
  • Your mate has betrayed you, a parent has betrayed you.
  • 00:20:05.584 --> 00:20:09.721
  • What is your responsibility?
  • 00:20:09.721 --> 00:20:12.391
  • I know this is not popular.
  • 00:20:12.391 --> 00:20:14.693
  • I know it goes against political correctness
  • 00:20:14.693 --> 00:20:17.829
  • In our victim-focused age in which we live.
  • 00:20:17.829 --> 00:20:21.633
  • There's not anything wrong with that.
  • 00:20:21.633 --> 00:20:23.635
  • We ought to be compassionate to victims.
  • 00:20:23.635 --> 00:20:25.737
  • But when we talk about victims,
  • 00:20:25.737 --> 00:20:28.273
  • People are offended if you say the victim
  • 00:20:28.273 --> 00:20:30.575
  • Has a responsibility too.
  • 00:20:30.575 --> 00:20:32.711
  • But if you're the victim of sexual sin,
  • 00:20:32.711 --> 00:20:35.180
  • You do have a responsibility and obligation.
  • 00:20:35.180 --> 00:20:38.650
  • Forgiveness is not an option for a christian.
  • 00:20:39.584 --> 00:20:43.422
  • It's an obligation.
  • 00:20:43.422 --> 00:20:45.590
  • Christians are obligated
  • 00:20:45.590 --> 00:20:47.759
  • To forgive those who sin against them.
  • 00:20:47.759 --> 00:20:51.530
  • Ephesians 4:32 says: be kind to one another,
  • 00:20:51.530 --> 00:20:55.300
  • Tenderhearted, forgiving one another
  • 00:20:55.300 --> 00:20:58.270
  • Just as god in christ has forgiven you.
  • 00:20:58.270 --> 00:21:03.342
  • Jesus said in matthew 6:
  • 00:21:03.842 --> 00:21:05.544
  • If you forgive others, my heavenly father will forgive you.
  • 00:21:05.544 --> 00:21:08.180
  • If you do not forgive others,
  • 00:21:08.180 --> 00:21:10.248
  • Neither will my heavenly father forgive you.
  • 00:21:10.248 --> 00:21:13.285
  • That's pretty clear, isn't it?
  • 00:21:13.285 --> 00:21:15.387
  • We have a responsibility to forgive,
  • 00:21:15.387 --> 00:21:17.522
  • Given the great sin that god has forgiven us of.
  • 00:21:17.522 --> 00:21:21.827
  • But hear this, if you're screaming inside,
  • 00:21:22.694 --> 00:21:26.164
  • "no, no, no, no, no."
  • 00:21:26.164 --> 00:21:27.966
  • Remember there's a difference
  • 00:21:27.966 --> 00:21:29.501
  • Between forgiveness and reconciliation.
  • 00:21:29.501 --> 00:21:32.838
  • When i forgive somebody, what i do is i give up my right
  • 00:21:32.838 --> 00:21:36.575
  • To hurt them for hurting me.
  • 00:21:36.575 --> 00:21:38.710
  • I say, "god, you take it. you settle the score.
  • 00:21:38.710 --> 00:21:42.214
  • I want to be free to get on with my own life."
  • 00:21:42.214 --> 00:21:45.450
  • When we refuse to forgive,
  • 00:21:45.450 --> 00:21:48.120
  • We hurt ourselves much more
  • 00:21:48.120 --> 00:21:49.755
  • Than we hurt the one who hurt us.
  • 00:21:49.755 --> 00:21:52.224
  • We're the ones holding that bitterness
  • 00:21:52.224 --> 00:21:54.192
  • That destroys our life.
  • 00:21:54.192 --> 00:21:56.294
  • We can forgive somebody
  • 00:21:56.294 --> 00:21:57.629
  • Whether they ask for the forgiveness or not,
  • 00:21:57.629 --> 00:22:00.365
  • But it's impossible to be reconciled with somebody
  • 00:22:00.365 --> 00:22:04.069
  • Who doesn't repent and change.
  • 00:22:04.069 --> 00:22:06.638
  • Do you see what i'm saying?
  • 00:22:06.638 --> 00:22:08.173
  • Forgiveness depends upon me; reconciliation depends upon us.
  • 00:22:08.173 --> 00:22:12.811
  • Forgiveness has no strings attached to it.
  • 00:22:12.811 --> 00:22:15.614
  • Reconciliation has many strings attached to it.
  • 00:22:15.614 --> 00:22:19.518
  • Jesus was very clear in matthew 5:32, in matthew 19:9,
  • 00:22:20.585 --> 00:22:25.357
  • That if you have a mate who has committed adultery,
  • 00:22:26.391 --> 00:22:28.260
  • Especially hard-hearted, unrepentant adultery,
  • 00:22:28.260 --> 00:22:31.963
  • You have the option of divorcing.
  • 00:22:31.963 --> 00:22:33.799
  • Jesus gave that exception for divorce,
  • 00:22:33.799 --> 00:22:37.102
  • Except in the case of adultery.
  • 00:22:37.102 --> 00:22:40.705
  • But even though you've got the option to divorce,
  • 00:22:40.705 --> 00:22:43.875
  • There's not a command to divorce.
  • 00:22:43.875 --> 00:22:46.411
  • And if you have a mate who is truly repentant of their sin,
  • 00:22:46.411 --> 00:22:51.082
  • They're willing to change,
  • 00:22:51.082 --> 00:22:53.084
  • They're willing to go to biblical counseling,
  • 00:22:53.084 --> 00:22:55.921
  • Then reconciliation is always the preferred outcome.
  • 00:22:55.921 --> 00:23:00.659
  • Not only for your sake and your mate's sake,
  • 00:23:00.659 --> 00:23:03.228
  • But for the sake of your children and grandchildren.
  • 00:23:03.228 --> 00:23:06.531
  • But remember, it's conditional
  • 00:23:06.531 --> 00:23:08.133
  • Whether the reconciliation can happen.
  • 00:23:08.133 --> 00:23:10.602
  • Forgiveness has no strings attached;
  • 00:23:10.602 --> 00:23:13.238
  • Reconciliation has many strings attached.
  • 00:23:13.238 --> 00:23:16.374
  • Is it possible for a marriage to survive adultery?
  • 00:23:16.374 --> 00:23:20.879
  • The good news is yes.
  • 00:23:20.879 --> 00:23:22.881
  • One biblical writer says,
  • 00:23:22.881 --> 00:23:24.649
  • "marriages torpedoed by affairs need not sink.
  • 00:23:24.649 --> 00:23:29.087
  • They can be towed into dry dock, repaired and refitted,
  • 00:23:29.087 --> 00:23:33.358
  • And once refitted, they will sail farther
  • 00:23:33.358 --> 00:23:36.595
  • And faster than at any previous time."
  • 00:23:36.595 --> 00:23:40.665
  • And that's the power of god.
  • 00:23:40.665 --> 00:23:42.834
  • Romans 8:28 says, god is able to cause all things
  • 00:23:42.834 --> 00:23:47.672
  • To work together for good to those who love him,
  • 00:23:47.672 --> 00:23:51.843
  • To those who are called according to his purpose.
  • 00:23:51.843 --> 00:23:55.747
  • ♪ music ♪
  • 00:23:55.747 --> 00:24:00.986
  • The consequences of adultery are undeniably devastating.
  • 00:24:00.986 --> 00:24:04.990
  • But if two people are sincere and willing,
  • 00:24:04.990 --> 00:24:07.826
  • God can mend any relationship.
  • 00:24:07.826 --> 00:24:11.029
  • Well, the darker our culture becomes,
  • 00:24:11.029 --> 00:24:12.831
  • The brighter our light can shine.
  • 00:24:12.831 --> 00:24:14.933
  • And as our nation marks 250 years,
  • 00:24:14.933 --> 00:24:17.869
  • I believe god is calling his people
  • 00:24:17.869 --> 00:24:20.238
  • To shine the light more boldly than ever before.
  • 00:24:20.238 --> 00:24:23.775
  • Right now, through the in god we trust matching challenge,
  • 00:24:23.775 --> 00:24:27.479
  • Every dollar given between now and july 5th
  • 00:24:27.479 --> 00:24:30.415
  • To "pathway to victory" will be matched
  • 00:24:30.415 --> 00:24:32.884
  • And therefore doubled in impact, up to $1.5 million.
  • 00:24:32.884 --> 00:24:37.556
  • The only hope for america
  • 00:24:38.123 --> 00:24:39.791
  • Is the transforming power of the gospel.
  • 00:24:39.791 --> 00:24:42.994
  • And your gift will help us carry that message
  • 00:24:42.994 --> 00:24:45.297
  • To more people across the nation and around the world.
  • 00:24:45.297 --> 00:24:49.067
  • Now, please stay right there.
  • 00:24:49.067 --> 00:24:50.635
  • I'll be back with more "pathway to victory"
  • 00:24:50.635 --> 00:24:53.038
  • In just a moment.
  • 00:24:53.038 --> 00:24:54.372
  • Most of us grew up seeing the ten commandments posted
  • 00:24:55.473 --> 00:24:57.742
  • In our schools and courthouses.
  • 00:24:57.742 --> 00:24:59.811
  • So why don't we seem
  • 00:24:59.811 --> 00:25:01.112
  • To follow those ten commandments anymore?
  • 00:25:01.112 --> 00:25:03.748
  • In "the 10," dr. robert jeffress shows us
  • 00:25:03.748 --> 00:25:06.651
  • These ancient truths were not given to us
  • 00:25:06.651 --> 00:25:08.954
  • To take away our freedom,
  • 00:25:08.954 --> 00:25:10.755
  • They were given to enhance our happiness
  • 00:25:10.755 --> 00:25:13.325
  • And to invite us into a deeper love relationship with god.
  • 00:25:13.325 --> 00:25:16.995
  • In a culture where moral confusion reigns,
  • 00:25:16.995 --> 00:25:20.098
  • Where what's right is wrong and what's wrong is right,
  • 00:25:20.098 --> 00:25:23.101
  • We desperately need to get back to the basics of morality.
  • 00:25:23.101 --> 00:25:26.838
  • And that's exactly what the ten commandments help us do.
  • 00:25:26.838 --> 00:25:30.508
  • "the 10" by dr. robert jeffress.
  • 00:25:30.508 --> 00:25:33.244
  • A copy is yours today when you give a generous gift
  • 00:25:33.244 --> 00:25:36.047
  • To "pathway to victory."
  • 00:25:36.047 --> 00:25:37.616
  • And when your ministry gift is $125 or more,
  • 00:25:37.616 --> 00:25:41.152
  • You'll receive not only the book,
  • 00:25:41.152 --> 00:25:42.988
  • But a personal and group study guide,
  • 00:25:42.988 --> 00:25:45.256
  • The ten encouragement cards,
  • 00:25:45.256 --> 00:25:47.025
  • A colorful children's book
  • 00:25:47.025 --> 00:25:48.460
  • Called "the 10 commandments for kids,"
  • 00:25:48.460 --> 00:25:50.962
  • And the complete series on dvd, video, and audio disc.
  • 00:25:50.962 --> 00:25:54.966
  • You will never make it to heaven
  • 00:25:54.966 --> 00:25:56.935
  • By keeping the ten commandments,
  • 00:25:56.935 --> 00:25:59.304
  • But you will have a much better life
  • 00:25:59.304 --> 00:26:01.539
  • Here on earth if you do.
  • 00:26:01.539 --> 00:26:02.974
  • That is the promise that god is making.
  • 00:26:02.974 --> 00:26:05.910
  • For 30 years, "pathway to victory"
  • 00:26:05.910 --> 00:26:08.213
  • Has been sharing god's truth
  • 00:26:08.213 --> 00:26:09.848
  • With a world that needs it now more than ever.
  • 00:26:09.848 --> 00:26:12.784
  • And when you give today, your gift will be doubled in impact
  • 00:26:12.784 --> 00:26:16.421
  • Through the in god we trust matching challenge.
  • 00:26:16.421 --> 00:26:19.658
  • Thank you for helping us pierce the darkness
  • 00:26:19.658 --> 00:26:22.293
  • With the light of god's word.
  • 00:26:22.293 --> 00:26:24.763
  • ♪ music ♪
  • 00:26:25.096 --> 00:26:26.431
  • I know i'm speaking to someone
  • 00:26:26.431 --> 00:26:27.899
  • Who's been deeply hurt by the sin of adultery.
  • 00:26:27.899 --> 00:26:31.302
  • Whichever side you're on, the perpetrator or the victim,
  • 00:26:31.302 --> 00:26:35.273
  • There is a way forward.
  • 00:26:35.273 --> 00:26:38.009
  • Well, in recent years,
  • 00:26:38.009 --> 00:26:39.544
  • We've seen an unprecedented rise in theft in our nation,
  • 00:26:39.544 --> 00:26:43.882
  • But stealing is more than a civil matter,
  • 00:26:43.882 --> 00:26:46.718
  • It's a moral failure called out in god's ten commandments.
  • 00:26:46.718 --> 00:26:51.222
  • Stay tuned for a preview
  • 00:26:51.222 --> 00:26:52.490
  • Of what's coming up next in our series, "the 10."
  • 00:26:52.490 --> 00:26:55.994
  • Why does god talk about not stealing?
  • 00:26:56.828 --> 00:26:59.330
  • There's a basic assumption here
  • 00:26:59.330 --> 00:27:01.533
  • That, frankly, is under attack today in our country,
  • 00:27:01.533 --> 00:27:06.104
  • And it's the assumption that people have a right,
  • 00:27:06.104 --> 00:27:09.641
  • Not just a right,
  • 00:27:09.641 --> 00:27:11.009
  • But a responsibility to acquire personal property.
  • 00:27:11.009 --> 00:27:16.147
  • Set your dvr and join us next time for the message,
  • 00:27:17.148 --> 00:27:18.817
  • "the eighth commandment: respect the property of others,"
  • 00:27:18.817 --> 00:27:22.620
  • Here on "pathway to victory."
  • 00:27:22.620 --> 00:27:22.620