[RoosterRedux]

Since lust in one’s heart is adultery, everyone has broken their marital vow. But this man didn’t just sin inwardly—he acted on it in a way that brought heartache to every member of his family.

[drwoof]

Correct. I’ve seen a few times now. We humans are so flawed. As I’ve grown older, I’ve come to see more and more fully why having Christ in our lives is essential.

[af_vet_1981]

Since lust in one’s heart is adultery, everyone has broken their marital vow.

It seems to me this type of statement tends to minimize and normalize the actual physical adultery, that for which the Old Testament Law proscribed the death penalty. Although the New Testament extends the scope of adultery to include lust it does not abrogate the Law.

I understand the New Testament teaching by way of this explanation.

James 1:12-16
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
Do not err, my beloved brethren.